BANCROFT 
LIBRARY 


THE  LIBRARY 

OF 

THE  UNIVERSITY 
OF  CALIFORNIA 


UPS  AND  DOWNS 


.  .   .  OK  AN  . 


ARMY  OFFICER. 


BY 

COL.  GKORGE  A.  ARMKS,  U.  S.  A. 


"WASHINGTON.  13.  C.i 
1OOO, 


A 


Entered  according  to  act  of  Congress,  in  the  yerr  1900,  by 

Col.  GKORGE  A.  ARMES,  U.  S.  A., 
In  the  office  of  the  Librarian  of  Congress  at  Washington,  D.  C. 


$-01  b  \ 

BANCROFT 
LIBRARY 


portraits  ant>  Illustrations, 


PAGE 

Geo.  A.  Armes,  U.  S.  A Frontispiece, 

General  Grierson  Entertaining  His  Friends 2 

Just  Landing  at  Castle  Garden 3 

The  Army  Lawyer  Blowing  His  Own  Horn 4 

Calls  on  President  in  New  Uniform  of  Brigadier  General 4 

C.  H.  Burgess .*. 6 

The  Deerfi eld  Home 14 

Receiving  Orders  from  General  Washington 15 

My  Childhood  Home 16 

"Charlie" 17 

The  Jackson  Tournament 23 

Arrest  No.  I,  by  Confederates 30 

Cassius  M.  Clay's  First  1'risoner 31 

Capt.  Ball's  Surrender  at  the  Slave  Pen 37 

Tompkins'  Charge  through  Fairfax  Court  House 45 

Gen.  Winfield  Scott 48 

Arrest  No.  4,  by  Blenker's  Soldiers 53 

Stampede  from  Bull  Run 55 

Rescued  froui  Amputating  Table 56 

The  Watermelon  Enterprise..  58 

Hon.  Wm.  H.  Seward- 62 

Gov.  Woodbury  and  Family •„ 79 

Delivering  Dispatches  to  Gen.  Grant.. 87 

Unhoised  While  Delivering  Messages 90 

Delivering  Dispatches  to  Barlow 95 

Prof.  J.  O.' Armes 107 

Gen.  Hancock  and  Staff. 108 

Inspecting  Line  in  Front  of  Masked  Battery 109 

Charge  at  Hatcher's  Run,  Va.,  1864 125 

Gen.  Robert  E.  Lee 139 

Ex-Gov.  Thomas,  of  Va  .. 146 

Arresting  Benham.. 176 

Reporting  to  Norwood 184 

Crossing  Platte  River 185 

Greatest  Cavalry  Feat  on  Record 186 

Return  to  Fort  Sedgwick  187 

Rescuing  the  Woodchoppers 206 

Return  from  the  Rescue , 207 

General  U.  S.  Grant... 222 

Fred  Grant  in  1867 225 

Wm.  E.  Armes 232 

Major-General  W.  S.  Hancock 234 

Wounded  and  Lifted  on  Horse 238 

C.  H.  Arme« 268 

Cody  Killing  Buffalo  for  Supper 272 

The  Ma  ch 290 

Feeding  Indians 311 

Powder  Face 314 

Custer  to  My  Rescue 325 

Governor  and  Mrs.  Kirkwood 335 

Commodore  Vanderbilt  359 

Armes' Knights 361 

(iii) 


IV 

Awaiting  My  Antagonist 364 

Elaine's  Attack  of  Vertigo 411 

Watterson  Entertaining   Garfield 417 

Senator  Wallace 432 

Col.  Levi  P.  Maish 440 

The  Potato  Lady 458 

Trying  to  Procure  Evidence  468 

Gen.  W.  S.  Rosecrans 538 

Dr.  Loring  546 

John  Van    Dyke 548 

Mrs.  Van  Dyke 549 

Gen.   Berdan 557 

Oxford  Military   Academy 564 

Gen.  George  Stoneman 578 

My  Four-in- Hand 580 

The  Assault 587 

Resenting   Gen.  Beaver's  Insult 589 

The  Beaver  Court-Martial 591 

The  Beaver  Medal 593 

W.  Hector  Gale 595 

Senator  Stewart 606 

Discussing  Plans  with  Senator  Stewart 612 

Cecily  Arrnes 614 

My  Children 619 

My  Family 623 

Geo.  Kerr  Armes , 636 

Oscar  St.  John  Armes  636 

Hon.  C.  J.  Faulkner :.  637 

Mrs.  Faulkner 637 

Gen.  Richard  N.  Batchelder. 639 

Herbert  Claude 644 

Cecily 645 

Fairfield — My  Residence 649 

The  Arrest 662 

The  Author  at  Various  Ages 664 

Henry  Oliver 668 

Major  General  Nelson  A.  Miles 679 

John  Chamberlin 680 

Gov.  W.  P.  Kellogg 689 

Mrs.  Geo.  A.  Armes 691 

Grover  Cleveland  Armes 601 

Col.  O.  F.  Hulser 7oi 

Jos.  A.  Buckholtz 743 

Albion  H.  Droun 743 

Col.  Ochiltree  Leading  ''Sibley's  "  Brigade  at  the  Battle  of  Val  Verde...  745 
Asking  the  P  esideut  to  Appoint  Me  a  Brigadier-General  of  Volunteers  749 

Secretary  of  War  Asking  Advice 750 

Queen  Lilioukalani  751 

Mr.  Parker 7^1 

Prince  David  Kawanakoa,  of  Hawaii 752 

My  Daughter  Ethel  in  Amateur  Theatricals 753 

Senator  C.  K.  Davis 754 

Senator  John  W.  Daniel  .    7c4 

Wm.  St.  John 754 

Wm.  Lyman  and  wife 754 


TABLE  OF  CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER    I. 
1861. 

Parentage  and  early  life,  from  first  settlement  of  ancestors  in  Massachu- 
setts, who  distinguished  themselves  in  Indian  wars  at  that  time — 
Great-grandfather  selected  by  Washington  to  guard  chain  across 
the  Hudson — Boyhood  at  Annandale,  Va. — Riding  at  Secesh  Tour- 
nament without  saddle  or  bridle — Arrest  No.  I,  on  way  to  Washing- 
ton— Calling  on  Secretary  Seward — Arrested  and  threatened  to  be 
hung  by  Cassius  M.  Clay  (Arrest  No.  2) — Ordered  released  by  Sec- 
retary Seward  and  appointed  his  private  messenger — Led  the  ad- 
vance into  Alexandria,  Va.,  with  Gen.  O.  B.  Wilcox,  and  with  one 
hundred  men  of  the  First  Michigan  capture  Captain  Ball  at  slave 
pen — Shot  in  right  breast  while  leading  a  charge  with  Lieutenant 
Tompkins  at  Fairfax  Court  House,  Va.,  May,  1861 — Arrested  by 
order  of  General  McDowell  and  General  Scott  (Arrest  No.  3) — Im- 
prisoned in  the  Marshall  House  and  afterwards  released  by  Secre- 
tary Seward — Ellsworth  killed  by  Jackson. 

CHAPTER    II. 
1861-2. 

Save  a  few  dollars  and  obtain  permission  to  sell  necessities  to  soldiers, 
clearing  over  $1200  in  three  weeks — Stock  my  store  and  place  it  in 
charge  of  a  clerk,  who  sells  building  and  stock,  disappearing  with 
everything — By  permission  of  Secretary  Seward,  go  as  scout  to  Gen- 
eral Heintzelman — Arrested  by  twenty  Dutchmen  of  General  Blen- 
ker's  command  and  thrust  into  an  icehouse  (Arrest  No.  4) — Wounded 
in  First  Bull  Run — Second  commercial  enterprise  in  life — Buy  a 
wagon  load  of  watermelons  and  undertake  to  sell  them  to  the  Twelfth 
New  York  Volunteers;  robbed  of  ever)'-  melon — Start  stage  line  from 
Alexandria  to  Manassas,  and  run  the  Union  Hotel  at  Fairfax  Court 
House — Charter  a  vessel  and  transport  supplies  to  the  Army  of  the 
Potomac — Invest  $3000  in  horses  and  wagons  and  contract  to  haul 
supplies  to  the  camps  around  Washington — Stables  catch  fire  and 
everything  destroyed — Resign  position  at  $50  per  month  and  enlist 
as  a  private  soldier  at  $13 — Promoted  to  the  first  vacancy  as  Second 
Lieutenant  in  the  Regiment. 

CHAPTER    HI. 
1803. 

Appointed  Second  Lieutenant  in  Invalid  Corps — Missing  roll-call  while 
on  duty  at  Hartford,  am  placed  in  arrest  (Arrest  No.  5) — Detained 
while  on  an  excursion,  and  arrested  when  I  return  (Arrest  No.  6) — 
Placed  in  arrest  while  taking  a  detachment  of  substitutes  to  the  front, 
for  receiving  a  testimonial  of  gratitude  (Arrest  No.  7)- — Recom- 
mended for  a  commission  in  the  First  New  Hampshire  Cavalry  by 
Colonel  Fearing  and  Maj.  George  H.  Chandler  and  ten  other  offi- 
cers— Served  with  Lieut.  U.  A.  Woodbury  (since  Governor  of  Ver- 
mont) in  conducting  substitutes  to  the  front — Detailed  by  Secretary 

(v) 


VI 

of  War  Stanton  to  deliver  in  person  to  General  Grant  private  dis- 
patches and  important  documents — Request  General  Grant  to  assign 
me  to  duty  in  the  field — General  Grant  gives  orders  to  General  Raw- 
lins  to  assign  me  to  duty  as  an  aide  to  General  Hancock — General 
Grant  remarks,  "He  will  give  him  his  fill  of  fighting,  if  that's  what 
he's  after" — Report  to  General  Hancock — Striker  Shaw  called  in  to 
see  ''what  the  gentleman  would  have" — Specially  complimented  by 
General  Hancock  for  promptness  in  carrying  an  order  to  General 
Barlow  under  heavy  fire,  and  advancing  the  First  Division  at  Cold 
Harbor — Events  daily  from  ''Wilderness"  to  Petersburg — Make  mis- 
take in  borrowing  Vermont  Brigade  Band  to  serenade  General  Han- 
cock while  he  is  asleep — Hancock  troubled  by  old  wound — Assigned 
temporarily  to  duty  with  General  Birney — While  examining  the  lines 
with  Capt.  Clayton  McMichael  of  the  Ninth  Infantry,  of  General 
Birney's  staff,  ride  in  front  of  a  masked  battery — Captain  McMichael 
wisely  declines  to  follow — Narrowly  escape  the  shells  from  the  fusil- 
ades — Apply  to  be  relieved  from  duty  on  General  Hancock's  staff — 
Arrive  in  time  to  take  an  active  part  in  the  fight  with  Early  in  the 
suburbs  of  Washington — Endorsed  by  President  Lincoln  for  captain 
in  the  Regular  Army — Appointed  by  Governor  Seymour  of  New 
York  as  Captain  of  the  Second  New  York  Heavy  Artillery  on  recom- 
mendation of  Hancock  and  others — Report  to  regiment — Command- 
ing officers  and  others  look  upon  me  as  an  intruder — Complimented 
by  inspecting  officers  and  others  for  having  one  of  the  best  disci- 
plined and  cleanest  companies  in  the  regiment — -My  company  ordered 
to  be  excused  from  all  fatigue  and  police  duty  for  one  week — Men- 
tioned in  general  orders  by  Maj.  Gen.  Nelson  A.  Miles  for  leading  a 
charge  and  capturing  the  works  at  Hatcher's  Run. 

CHAPTER    TV. 
1865. 

Recommended  for  a  commission  in  the  Regular  Army  by  General  Han- 
cock, C.  H.  Tompkins,  Col.  James  T.  Close  and  Senator  Joseph 
Segar — Recommended  for  a  commission  as  major  in  One  Hundred 
and  Twenty-fifth  New  York  Volunteer  Infantry  by  General  McDou- 
gall — Induced  to  decline,  being  recommended  and  endorsed  by  every 
officer  of  the  Second  New  York  Artillery  for  a  commission  as  major 
in  my  own  regiment— While  in  command  of  left  wing  of  Second 
Corps,  ordered  to  keep  connection  with  the  Fifth  Corps,  being  fur- 
nished but  25  of  500  additional  men  applied  for  by  General  Scott — 
Highly  complimented  for  holding  the  line  with  such  a  small  number 
of  men — False  charges  preferred  by  Lieutenant-Colonel  Hogg,  in 
command  of  regiment — Placed  in  arrest  (Arrest  No.  8) — Ordered  be- 
fore first  court-martial — Found  guilty — Upon  unanimous  recom- 
mendation of  court  restored  to  duty — Prefer  charges  against  Colonel 
Hogg — The  colonel  sentenced  to  be  dismissed,  cashiered  and  dis- 
oualified  from  holding  an  office  of  trust — On  the  march  through 
Richmond,  returning  from  Appomattox,  meet  D.  M.  Lee — Invited  to 
call  on  Gen.  Robert  E.  Lee — Accept  and  spend  a  pleasant  hour,  over- 
taking command  at  Yellow  Tavern  that  night — Placed  in  command 
of  Fort  Whipple,  Va.,  with  four  companies  of  artillery — Ordered  to 
appear  before  Secretary  of  War — Report  to  Mr.  Stanton  and  ordered 
to  accompany  General  Townsend  to  the  Arsenal  to  identify  Dan.  Lee 
among  the  prisoners  in  arrest  for  conspiracy  in  the  assassination  of 


Vll 

Mr.  Lincoln — Report  that  he  is  not  among  them — Contradicted  by 
Colonel  Baker,  the  secret  service  detective — Assigned  to  the  First 
District  of  Eastern  Virginia  under  Gen.  O.  O.  Howard,  of  the  Freed- 
man's  Bureau — Establish  headquarters  at  Fairfax  Court  House,  Va. 
— Give  grand  Union  Tournament  as  an  offset  to  Jackson's  tourna- 
ment in  1861 — Invite  ex-Confederates  to  participate — Upon  proof  of 
ownership  order  property  in  possession  of  negroes  returned  to  right- 
ful owners — Sustained  in  my  action  by  the  War  Department — Mus- 
tered out  and  return  to  civil  life — Commence  farming  at  my  old  home- 
stead in  Virginia — Dressed  as  a  farmer,  accidently  meet  General  Han- 
cock, who  is  delighted  to  see  me— ^Advised  by  the  General  to  give  up 
farming  and  enter  the  regular  cavalry. 

CHAPTER   V. 
1866. 

Take  advice  and  accept  commission  in  Second  United  States  Cavalry — 
Obtain  interesting  letters  from  Secretary  Seward,  General  Howard, 
Gen.  C.  C.  Augur,  Col.  M.  I.  Ludington  (now  Quartermaster-Gen- 
eral)— Report  to  Col.  I.  N.  Palmer,  Second  Cavalry,  at  Fort  Ells- 
worth— Ordered  to  Pond  Creek — Lieut.  A.  E.  Bates  (now  Pay- 
master-General) and  I  select  the  site  and  commence  Fort  Wallace — 
Made  Post  Adjutant  at  Fort  Wallace — Placed  in  command  of  Troop 
M — Take  possession  of  stage  horses  while  in  pursuit  of  deserters  and 
continue  search — Arrest  General  Superintendent,  placing  him  in  the 
guard  house  for  finding  fault — March  command  from  Fort  Wallace 
to  Fort  Sedgwick,  through  country  never  before  crossed  by  white 
man — Swim  two  rivers  and  destroy  a  village  of  Indians — Compli- 
mented in  general  orders  for  "Performing  the  greatest  cavalry  feat 
ever  before  recorded" — Specially  promoted  by  General  Grant  over 
the  heads  of  several  hundreds  of  Army  officers — Placed  in  arrest  for 
adopting  methods  of  exercising  horses  not  found  in  established  tac- 
tics (Arrest  No.  9) — Required  to  stay  over  night  during  buffalo  hunt 
on  account  of  being  lost — Placed  in  arrest  on  my  return  (Arrest 
No.  10). 

CHAPTER    VI. 
1867. 

Captain  Mix  assumes  command  of  the  Post,  making  me  Post  Adjutant — 
Orders  me  to  place  Colonel  Neil  in  close  arrest — Complimented  by 
General  Dodge  for  successful  management  of  my  command  through 
a  blizzard,  where  twenty-seven  of  my  men  were  frozen  after  rescuing 
a  party  of  wood  choppers  from  the  Indians  in  Lawrence  Canon — 
Highly  complimented  by  Capt.  John  Mix  for  care  and  attention 
given  my  command  while  on  scout  after  Indians — Report  to  Cavalry 
Board  for  examination — Recommended  thirty  days  for  preparation 
for  examination — Pass  satisfactorily — Give  farewell  party  to  friends 
in  Washington — Leave  for  the  frontier — Report  at  Leavenworth  and 
organize  a  company — Assigned  to  duty  with  Gen.  A.  J.  Smith  at  Fort 
Harker,  Kans. — Cholera — Bury  four  or  five  men  per  day  in  the  prai- 
rie— Loss  of  brother — Sent  on  scout  duty  up  the  Smoky  Hill  River — 
Ordered  to  Fort  Hays  and  assigned  to  duty  with  Capt.  H.  C.  Corbin 
— Desperate  fight  on  the  Saline  River  with  overwhelming  force  pi 
Indians — Thirty-five  men  killed  and  wounded  out  of  70 — Shot  in  hip 


Vlll 

and  lifted  on  my  horse — Complimented  for  saving  command — Rec- 
ommended for  brevet  lieutenant-colonel  by  Captain  Corbin,  General 
Smith,  General  Hancock  and  General  Sherman — Severe  Indian  fight, 
where  I  command  two  companies  of  Kansas  cavalry  in  addition  to 
my  regulars — Corralled  for  three  days — Lose  large  number  of  men 
and  horses — Complimented  by  my  commanding  officer  and  by  spe- 
cial letter  of  General  Hancock — Placed  in  arrest  by  Captain  Oven- 
shine,  who  acts  on  false  statement  (Arrest  No.  n) — No  explanation 
of  act — Released  next  day — Upon  my  recommendation  Governor 
Crawford  of  Kansas  mentions  volunteers  in  general  orders  for  part 
taken  in  Indian  fight — Placed  in  arrest  for  assaulting  Post-Quarter- 
master and  resenting  insult  (Arrest  No.  12) — Many  complimentary 
letters  on  account  of  part  taken  in  Indian  campaign  of  1867. 

CHAPTER    VII. 

1868. 

Ordered  to  Leavenworth,  Kans.,  to  appear  before  court-martial  No.  2 — 
Tried  before  court-martial  at  Leavenworth  for  assault  on  quarter- 
master— Court  composed  of  gentlemen — Honorably  acquitted — 
Social  life  at  Leavenworth — Capture  several  deserters  near  Topeka, 
Kans. — Governor  Crawford's  guest — Request  Court  of  Inquiry — 
Pleasure  trip  to  Jefferson  City — March  with  command  to  Fort  Hays, 
Kans. — Entertain  Governor  Price,  General  Crittenden  and  several 
railroad  directors  on  a  buffalo  hunt — Mischief-making  officers  pre- 
fer charges,  seeking  trouble  for  me — Major  Kidd  placed  in  command 
of  battalion — Officers  conspire  to  fix  up  another  set  of  false 
charges — Placed  in  arrest  (Arrest  No.  13) — Turn  command  over  to 
mischief-making  sneak  posing  as  an  army  officer — Well-trained 
chickens — Incident  of  Indian  campaign  in  Kansas — Ordered  to  Fort 
Hays  to  report  for  trial  (court-martial  No.  3) — Lieutenant  Brownell, 
who  shot  Jackson,  the  slayer  of  Ellsworth,  Judge  Advocate  of  Court 
— Charge  of  "conduct  prejudicial  to  good  order  and  military  disci- 
pline"— Appear  before  court-martial  composed  of  honorable  and  just 
men — Honorably  acquitted — Sentence  of  court  approved  by  Depart- 
ment Commander — Reprimanded  and  released  from  arrest  without 
explanation  of  cause  (Arrest  No.  14) — General  Sully  investigates  and 
orders  release — Ordered  to  relieve  Major  Kidd  and  take  command  of 
the  battalion — Ordered  after  a  band  of  Indians  near  Fort  Dodge, 
Kans. — March  to  Fort  Lyon,  C.  T. — Gen.  William  Penrose  relieves 
me  of  command,  and  we  start  in  Indian  campaign  without  forage  for 
animals — General  Penrose  orders  horses  shot  in  rear  of  command  as 
fast  as  they  give  out — Placed  in  arrest  by  Captain  Byrne  (Arrest  No. 
15) — Prefer  charges  against  Captain  Byrne,  who  was  also  placed  in 
arrest  by  General  Penrose. 

CHAPTER    VIII. 
1869. 

Several  months  of  scouting — Return  of  command  to  Fort  Lyon,  mostly 
on  foot,  and  in  a  terribly  demoralized  condition — Garrison  life  at 
Fort  Lyon — Complimented  by  Generals  Carr  and  Penrose — Released 
from  arrest  and  placed  in  command  of  four  companies  of  Cavalry — 
Ordered  to  Fort  Dodge,  Kans. — Place  Major  Cox  in  arrest — Arrival 
at  Fort  Dodge — Order  a  Board  of  Survey  in  relation  to  horses — 


IX 

Prefer  charges  against  Major  Graham  for  selling  Government  horses 
and  mules — Investigation  by  General  Schofield's  brother — Place 
Major  Graham  in  arrest — Ordered  to  Fort  Leavenworth — Court- 
martial  convenes  at  Fort  Harker  for  my  trial  (Court-martial  No.  4)^- 
Placed  in  arrest  and  ordered  befor  it  by  General  Schofield  (Arrest 
No.  16) — Order  of  arrest  suspended  after  investigation — Ordered  to 
Camp  Supply,  Ind.  T. — Correspondence  through  Major  Page  in  rela- 
tion to  Captain  Graham — Lieut. -Col.  A.  D.  Nelson  takes  command 
of  Camp  Supply — Arbitrary  act  and  brutal  treatment  by  Colonel  Nel- 
son— Colonel  Carpenter  assists  me  in  bringing  charges  against  Col- 
onel Nelson  and  Captain  Graham — Defense  of  Major  Graham  by 
General  Schofield  and  Colonel  Nelson — Indian  entertainment  at 
Camp  Supply — False  charges  connived  by  Major  Cox,  Major  Gra- 
ham and  Colonel  Nelson — Major  Page,  in  the  absence  of  Colonel 
Nelson,  places  me  in  arrest  (Arrest  No.  17) — Lieutenant  Williams, 
Third  Infantry,  places  me  in  arrest  by  order  of  Colonel  Nelson,  with 
ten  miles'  limit  (Arrest  No.  18) — Prefer  charges  against  Col.  A.  D. 
Nelson — Placed  in  arrest  and  ordered  for  trial  at  Fort  Leavenworth, 
Kans.,  by  General  Schofield  (Arrest  No.  19;  Court-martial  No.  5). 

CHAPTER    IX. 
1870. 

Ordered  before  a  picked  court  of  army  loafers — Maj.  Lewis  Merrill,  Judge 
Advocate — Desperate  effort  of  General  Schofield  and  his  conspira- 
tors to  force  me  out  of  the  Army — Sent  to  common  guard  house  in 
full  uniform  by  General  Sturgis,  president  of  court — General  Scho- 
field declines  to  try  Colonel  Nelson  and  denounces  me  in  violent 
terms — Inform  a  member  of  court  I  would  not  believe  him  under 
oath — General  Custer  comes  to  my  defense — Purpose  to  force  me  out 
of  the  service — Bring  civil  action  against  court-martial,  and  have 
court  arrested  for  false  imprisonment — Court  reassembles — Dismissed 
from  the  service — Ordered  several  hundred  miles  out  on  the  frontier 
by  General  Schofield — General  Miles  and  many  other  officers  testify 
in  my  defense — Arbitrary  and  brutal  action  of  General  Schofield  and 
his  picked  court — Sacrifice  $10,000  w.orth  of  property  and  life-long 
savings .  to  defend  my  commission — Borrow  money  to  pay  my  way 
to  Washington — Arrival  at  Washington  penniless — Interesting  let- 
ters from  Governor  Kirkwood  and  others  of  note  to  Secretary  of  War 
in  my  behalf — Judge  Moore  and  Justice  Bright  take  me  into,  their 
office  free  of  rent  and  back  me  up  in  my  expenses — Employ  Judge  T. 
W.  Bartley,  bother-in-law  of  General  Sherman,  and  Hon.  F.  P.  Stan- 
ton  and  Judge  Joseph  Casey  as  counsel  and  attorneys-at-law  to  pre- 
sent my  case — Call  on  Secretary  of  War  Belknap  with  letter  from 
Governor  Kirkwood — Insulted  and  harshly  treated — Meet  with  finan- 
cial success  in  the  real-estate  business. 

CHAPTER    X. 
1871. 

Take  in  social  features  of  the  season — Appeal  to  Members,  Senators  and 
officials  in  my  behalf — Correspondence  with  many  sympathizing 
friends — Agreement  made  with  Secretary  of  War  to  restore  me  to 
Army  on  condition  civil  suit  against  court  at  Leavenworth  is  with- 
drawn— Belknap  demands  resignation  in  blank,  which  is  given,  but 
recalled — Petition  to  Congress,  President  and  the  Secretary  of  War. 


CHAPTER    XL 
1872. 

Social  features  of  the  early  part  of  the  year — Captain  Carpenter,  now 
brigadier-general,  turns  traitor  and  sends  a  false  and  disgraceful  peti- 
tion to  Congress  to  try  to  prevent  my  restoration — Endorse  notes, 
loan  money  and  lose  it — Social  features  in  the  city  of  Washington 
and  at  watering  places — Purchase  newspaper  and  enter  into  politics — 
Active  interest  of  Senators  and  Members  in  my  behalf — At  Saratoga 
— Challenged  by  Governor  Hoffman  of  New  York  to  produce  any 
Southern  gentleman  who  was  a  better  horseman  than  he  could  pro- 
duce from  the  North — Challenge  accepted — Commodore  Vanderbilt 
becomes  interested  with  Governor  Hoffman — Select  tournament 
given  and  the  North  challenged — Southern  knights  carry  off  the 
prize — Duel — Newspaper  quotes  "a  fiery  young  colonel  from  the  im- 
petuous South  challenges  to  mortal  combat  an  inoffensive  citizen 
from  the  frigid  North." 

CHAPTER    XII. 
1873. 

Committee  on  Military  Affairs  makes  a  favorable  report  in  my  behalf — 
Secretary  Belknap  writes  a  private  letter  to  General  Logan,  Chair- 
man of  Military  Committee  in  the  Senate,  to  defeat  me — General 
Logan  acts  on  advice  of  letter — Makes  adverse  report  without  investi- 
gation— General  Coburn  writes  letter  to  Senator  Morton  requesting 
him  to  take  my  part — Successful  real-estate  transactions — Profit  of 
$24,662.50 — Request  authority  of  the  President  to  organize  a  com- 
mand to  avenge  the  death  of  General  Ryan  and  his  unfortunate  men 
who  were  butchered  by  the  Spaniards — Two  of  the  officers  who  pre- 
ferred charges  against  me  convicted,  cashiered,  dismissed,  fined  $500 
and  sentenced  to  the  penitentiary  for  a  term  of  years — $63,000  net 
profit  in  real-estate  transactions. 

CHAPTER    XIII. 
1874. 

Social  features  of  the  season — Letter  of  Secretary  of  War  Belknap  to 
Senator  Clayton  aiming  to  defeat  my  restoration — Petition  of  promi- 
nent officials  and  citizens  to  Congress  in  my  behalf — Many  letters  of 
recommendation  from  prominent  men — Senator  Clayton  makes  a 
strong  report,  which  is  agreed  to  by  the  Senate  Military  Committee — 
Bill  passes  both  Houses  granting  an  honorable  discharge — Secretary 
Belknap  tries  to  defeat  it  with  the  President — Major  Graham  tries  to 
murder  United  States  Paymaster  Brookes — Success  in  real-estate 
business — Wed  daughter  of  Hon.  John  Bozman  Kerr  of  Maryland. 

CHAPTER    XTV. 
1875. 

Social  features  of  the  New  Year — Introduce  a  bill  for  restoration  to  full 
rank — Many  large  transaction  in  real  estate — Belknap's  continued 
attacks — Reply  to  petition  of  officers  of  the  regiment  and  others  sent 
to  Congress  to  prevent  my  restoration — Popularity  of  Speaker  Blaine 
— Correspondence  with  Fred.  Grant  and  Gen.  James  O'Bierne — Help 


XI 

to  defeat  Secretary  Belknap  for  his  Senatorship — Secure  evidence  of 
crooked  transactions  of  Secretary  Belknap — Prosperous  year  finan- 
cially— Fail  to  secure  passage  of  bill  for  restoration  to  rank. 

CHAPTER    XV. 
1876. 

Social  features  during  the  year — Generals  Palmer,  Penrose  and  many 
other  officers  take  an  active  part  in  assisting  me  to  my  restoration — 
St.  Louis  Times  publishes  charges  against  Belknap — Bring  charges 
before  Speaker  Randall,  who  orders  investigation,  with  Hon.  B.  B. 
Lewis  of  Alabama  to  assist  in  carrying  them  through — General  Glo- 
ver of  Missouri  makes  a  favorable  report  in  relation  to  my  restora- 
tion— Write  letter  of  warning  to  Secretary  Belknap  not  to  protest 
against  my  restoration — Threaten  to  force  him  out  of  his  office  if  he 
does — Mr.  Clymer  tries  to  save  Belknap  from  impeachment  and  ad- 
vises him  to  resign — Exciting  accounts  of  the  downfall  of  Secretary 
Belknap  and  "how  it  came  about" — Get  passes  to  the  floor  of  the 
House — Secretary  of  War  Taft  takes  special  interest  in  my  behalf. 

CHAPTER    XVI. 
1877. 

Social  features — Hon.  Henry  W.  Watterson  entertains  General  Garfield 
while  my  bill  passes — Report  of  the  Judge  Advocate,  General  Dunn, 
in  opposition  to  my  restoration — Petition  and  letters  from  many 
prominent  officials  in  my  behalf — Bill  having  passed  both  Houses  to 
restore  me  to  my  former  rank,  President  Grant  fails  to  sign  it. 

CHAPTER    XVII. 

1878. 

Customary  social  features  of  the  season — Have  bill  introduced  in  both 
Houses — Colonel  Maish  makes  strong  report — Bill  passes  through 
the  Military  Committee  of  the  House — Senator  Edmunds  tries  to  de- 
feat it  in  the  Senate — Senator  Blaine  takes  my  part  against  Senator 
Edmunds — Carries  bill  with  yeas  and  nays — Senator  Edmunds  has 
only  six  supporters — Given  commission  by  President  Hayes — Or- 
dered to  regiment  in  Texas — Received  invitation  from  Hon.  Charles 
J.  Faulkner,  together  with  President  and  friends,  to  be  entertained 
at  his  house  in  West  Virginia — Meet  Col.  B.  H.  Grierson — Obstacles 
thrown  in  my  way  by  him  to  make  life  unpleasant — Brutal  action  of 
Major  McLaughlin,  my  commanding  officer  at  Fort  Stockton — 
Placed  in  arrest  by  Major  McLaughlin  on  account  of  the  misspelling 
of  a  soldier's  name  by  a  sergeant  of  the  guard  (Arrest  No.  20) — Gen- 
eral Grierson  and  his  conspirators  determine  I  shall  not  remain  in 
the  regiment — Ordered  before  court-martial  No.  6,  convened  at  San 
Antonio,  Texas — Over  400  miles  by  stage  with  witnesses — Dutch- 
man -  —  Judge  Advocate — Decision  by  Department  Commander, 
after  careful  examination,  charges  do  not  warrant  trial — Released 
from  arrest  and  returned  to  duty — Complimentary  congratulations 
upon  my  restoration — Palmer's  opinion  of  me. 


XI 1 

CHAPTER    XVIII. 
1879. 

Social  features  at  Fort  Stockton — Lieut.-Col.  M.  M.  Blunt,  Twenty-fifth 
Infantry,  a  boot-lick  of  Grierson,  takes  command  at  Fort  Stockton — 
Makes  contract  surgeon  out  of  a  spy  and  mischief-maker  and  assigns 
him  to  duty  in  my  command — Scout  after  Indians — Lieutenant  Esterly 
and  Dr.  Price  connive  and  fix  up  set  of  false  charges — Ordered  to 
San  /Antonio  as  witness  on  trial  of  Major  Geddes,  who  was  being 
tried  under  false  charges  by  the  Dutchman  -  — Testify  in  his 

behalf — Lieut.  O.  J.  Sweet  plays  the  part  of  spy,  and  examines  the 
slops  in  order  to  try  and  find  ground  for  charges — Several  ignorant 
negroes  induced  to  agree  to  swear  to  malicious  and  false  charges 
fixed  up  by  Blunt  and  his  conspirators,  and  on  recommendation  of 
the  Dutchman,  General  Ord  is  induced  to  order  a  court  (Arrest  No. 
21 ;  Court-martial  No.  7) — Court  ordered  to  meet  at  Fort  Stockton 
for  my  trial — Specially  selected  to  do  the  dirty  work  of  those  inter- 
ested in  my  overthrow — The  Dutchman  Judge  Advocate — President 
of  the  court  and  one  of  the  members  so  drunk  no  justice  to  be  ex- 
pected of  either — Sentenced  to  dismissal  by  the  court — Dishonorable 
and  tricky  transaction  by  the  Judge  Advocate — Sentence  of  court 
commuted  to  one  year's  confinement  at  post  or  station — Brutal,  dis- 
graceful and  arbitrary  treatment  of  Colonel  Grierson — Forced  into  a 
bare  room  and  rejused  privilege  of  calling  on  any  officer,  soldier  or 
citizen — Kept  forty-eight  hours  without  food — No  apparent  attention 
given  by  the  court  to  witnesses  in  my  behalf — Colonel  Blunt  deceives 
Department  Commander  in  his  wilful  misrepresentations  in  my  case. 

CHAPTER    XIX. 

1880. 

In  arrest — Social  functions  of  the  New  Year  not  agreeable — Second 
Lieutenant  Esterly — Sympathy  of  the  citizens  of  the  whole  country — 
Expressed  disapproval  of  my  harsh  treatment — Another  set  of 
charges  by  Grierson  and  Clous  on  account  of  refusal  to  give  up  copy 
of  Morning  Report  Book — Court  ordered  to  meet  at  McKavett 
(Court-martial  No.  8) — The  old  "fossil,"  Neil,  President — Several 
"boot-licks,''  under  the  control  of  the  Dutchman  —  — ,  compose  the 
rest  of  the  members — Forcibly  brought  before  the  court  in  weak  and 
nervous  condition — Sentenced  to  dismissal  in  accordance  with  the 
purpose  for  which  court  was  organized — No  evidence  of  grounds  to 
warrant  such  sentence — Sentence  commuted  to  six  months'  suspen- 
sion and  confinement  at  the  post  with  half  pay — Col.  H.  C.  Corbin 
writes  letter  in  my  behalf. 

CHAPTER    XX. 
1881. 

Serving  sentence  at  Fort  McKavett,  Texas — Colonel  Shafter,  First  In- 
fantry, in  command — Indulgent  commanding  officer — Colonel  Pen- 
nypacker.  Sixteenth  Infantry,  also  commands  McKavett — Shows  his 
sympathy — Officers  of  the  First  and  Sixteenth  Infantry  very  friendly 
— Paymaster  and  Mrs.  Robison  prove  their  true  friendship — News- 
papers comment  favorably — Several  real-estate  transactions — Mali- 


Xlll 

cious  charge  questioning  sanity — Ordered  before  medical  board  for 
examination — Comments  of  the  press — Arbitrary  proceeding — Pay- 
master-General Terrell  proves  his  friendship — Medical  board  disap- 
points my  persecutors  in  their  finding — Ordered  to  serve  sentence  at 
Concho — Colonel  Grierson  forbids  me  from  accepting  invitation  to 
dine  with  Lieutenant  Davis — General  Vincent  refuses  transportation 
for  family  from  San  Antonio — Appears  to  be  in  collusion  with  the 
conspirators — Post  Chaplain  Weaver  sends  meals  to  prevent  starva- 
tion— Grierson  issues  orders  forbidding  me  to  visit  any  building,  offi- 
cer or  citizen  at  post — Apply  for  transfer  from  regiment — Insomnia — 
Change  headquarters  from  Concho  to  Stockton — Indignant  com- 
ments of  friends  on  persecution  of  Generals  Grierson,  Ord,  Vincent 
and  Blunt — A  miracle  that  I  survive  through  it — Colonel  Shafter  for- 
wards, approved  and  recommended  my  application  affecting  pay — 
Lieut.-Col.  James  F.  Wade  succeeds  Blunt  in  command  of  post — Cor- 
respondence with  General  Hazen — Letters  from  prominent  officials 
and  friends  submitted  to  board. 

CHAPTER    XXL 

1882. 

Allowed  the  limits  of  the  post  at  Fort  Stockton — Sentence  expires — As- 
sume command  of  my  company — Colonel  Wade  shows  hostility — 
Orders  me  on  drill  and  tries  to  detect  mistake — Colonel  Wade  repri- 
mands me  for  associating  and  entertaining  citizens — Real-estate 
transaction — Granted  leave  of  absence  and  visit  Washington — Enter 
into  a  large  transaction  with  General  Swaim  and  Colonel  Ingersoll — 
Commence  building  two  fine  houses — Secretary  of  War  Lincoln 
shows  his  hostility — Adjutant-General  Drum  pretends  to  be  an  inti- 
mate friend — Ordered  back  to  Texas,  leaving  family  in  Washington — 
Lieutenant  Bullis  proves  his  friendship — Major  McClellan  a  just 
commanding  officer — Colonel  Wade  doing  all  he  can  to  find  some 
excuse  for  charges — Colonel  Wrade  disapproves  application  for  a  sick 
leave — Letter  of  Lieutenant  Flipper — Form  a  stock  company  consist- 
ing of  General  Hazen,  Colonel  Rockwell,  Governor  Davis,  Hon.  C. 
B.  Farwell,  Col.  H.  C.  Corbin  and  Governor  John  C.  Brown. 

CHAPTER    XXII. 

1883. 

Colonel  Wade  continues  effort  to  find  grounds  for  charges — General 
Vincent  pursues  course  of  hostility — Forced  to  perform  full  duty 
when  physically  unable — General  Drum  proves  "tricky" — Ordered 
on  scout  after  Indians — Colonel  Wade  encourages  insubordination 
of  men  in  my  company — He  makes  false  representations  to  Depart- 
ment Commander — Medical  board  convenes,  and  three  officers  from 
the  court-martial  which  sentenced  dismissal  made  members — Scur- 
rilous charges  and  false  report  fixed  up  by  Dr.  Carter  and  Colonel 
Wade — Board  recommends  retirement — Leave  of  absence  given  for 
six  months — Revoked — Forcibly  and  arbitrarily  retired  as  senior  cap- 
tain— Apply  for  order  of  retirement  to  be  revoked — Colonel  Wade 
placed  in  false  light  by  written  statement  of  officers  at  post — Call  on 
President  in  person  and  protest  against  action  of  board — Engage  in 
real-estate  business,  making  several  large  transactions. 


XIV 

CHAPTER    XXIII. 
1884. 

Secure  appropriation  by  Congress  for  the  adoption  of  a  pneumatic  gun 
carriage — Take  an  active  part  as  a  member  of  Military  Committee  at 
Inauguration  of  Mr.  Cleveland — Controversy  with  Secretary  of  War 
Lincoln  in  regard  to  retirement — Bill  introduced  into  the  Senate — 
Recalled  through  representations  of  Col.  John  Bacon  of  General 
Sherman's  staff — Correspondence  with  Senator  Williams — Memorial 
furnished  Congress  explaining  retirement — Letter  to  President  Aur- 
thur  denouncing  his  Secretary  of  War  Robert  T.  Lincoln's  unjust 
act — Gen.  James  A.  Denver  my  counsel. 

CHAPTER    XXIV. 

1885. 

Attend  President's  reception  in  full  uniform — Large  amount  of  property 
put  into  my  hands  exclusively  to  sell — Real-estate  transaction  with 
Hon.  Washington  McLean — Protest  against  Major  Merrill's  promo- 
tion— Sell  Secretary  Whitney  of  the  Navy  a  country  resort — List  of 
the  many  sales  of  property  during  the  year — Real-estate  transaction 
with  Hon.  Levi  P.  Morton — Correspondence  with  General  Reno  in 
relation  to  Colonel  Merrill  submitted  to  the  Secretary  of  War — 
Beautify  and  improve  my  country  resort — Entertain  many  guests. 

CHAPTER    XXV. 

1886. 

Call  on  General  Sheridan  and  march  with  the  rest  of  officers  to  call  on 
the  President — Spicy  correspondence  in  relation  to  Major  Merrill — 
Appointed  full  colonel  and  Superintendent  of  Military  Academy  at 
Oxford  by  the  Governor  of  Maryland — Take  possession  as  General 
Superintendent  of  the  Academy,  and  purchase  all  the  property — Cor- 
respondence in  relation  to  the  Dutchman  —  — Capt.  L.  T.  Eades' 
interest  in  business  transactions — Cause  Major  Merrill's  nomination 
;fjor^Lieutenant-Colonel  to  be  withdrawn  from  the  Senate — Invitations 
to '"receptions  at  the  Executive  Mansion — Secure  large  subscription 
for  purchase  of  home  for  Mrs.  General  Hancock — Transaction  with 
Senator  McPherson  and  Chief  Justice  H.  E.  Jackson — Select  a  coun- 
try residence  for  President  Cleveland — A  train  chartered  for  thirty- 
five  days — Visit  California  and  many  Western  States — Entertained  by 
President  Callahan  of  the  First  National  Bank  of  San  Francisco — 
Invited  on  excursion  by  Governor  Stoneman — For  lack  of  time  drop 
retirement  controversy. 

CHAPTER    XXVI. 

1887. 

Social  features  of  the  New  Year — General  Drum's  pretended  friendship 
in  securing  an  Army  officer  as  inspector  of  cadets,  afterwards  dis- 
covered treacherous — Assistant  Superintendent  Burgess  proves  de- 
faulter and  disappears  with  a  large  amount  of  funds,  breaking  up  the 
school — Letters  from  members  of  Congress  and  others  in  relation  to 
their  sons  at  the  Military  Academy — Arrange  with  St.  John's  Acad- 
emy to  take  charge  of  all  cadets  who  had  paid  their  tuition  in  advance 


XV 

— Sacrifice  thousands  of  dollars'  worth  of  property  to  satisfy  obliga- 
tions— Took  active  part  in  ovation  given  Governor  Shepherd — Assist 
in  getting  up  riding  club  and  build  Academy — President  Cleveland 
and  Cabinet  take  an  active  part. 

CHAPTER    XXVII. 

1888. 

Social  features — Take  active  part  in  convention  at  St.  Louis  in  the  nomi- 
nation of  President  Cleveland — Entertain  Governor  Stoneman  of 
California,  and  assist  him  in  getting  on  the  retired  list — Important 
letter  of  Mr.  Lincoln  in  regard  to  saving  the  Union  without  refer- 
ence to  freeing  any  slaves — Write  several  letters  in  the  interests  of 
politics — Net  profit  of  $14,600  over  living  expenses  during  the  year. 

CHAPTER    XXVIII. 

1889. 

Call  on  President  Cleveland — Social  features  of  the  season — Visit  and 
interview  with  Congressman  Kilgore  of  Texas — Governor  James  A. 
Beaver,  a  comrade  whom  I  had  served  with  and  known  for  years, 
appoints  me  colonel  and  aide  on  his  staff — Take  an  active  part  in 
making  parade  successful — Insulted  by  General  Hastings — Several 
large  real-estate  transactions — Notified  by  General  Hastings  that 
Governor  Beaver  had  telegraphed  him  I  was  not  to  ride  on  his  staff — 
Assigned  to  duty  as  a  special  escort  to  President  Harrison  at  the 
Inauguration — Assaulted  on  the  parade  by  two  drunken  Army  offi- 
cers by  order  of  Governor  Beaver  (Arrest  No.  22) — Demand  apology 
of  Governor  Beaver — Demand  refused — Governor  Beaver  throws  off 
his  position  as  Governor  of  Pennsylvania  while  in  Washington  and 
defies  me  to  resent  his  insult  as  a  private  citizen — Not  wishing  to 
strike  him,  I  tweak  his  nose  as  my  only  course — General  Schofield 
and  his  conspirators  make  capital  and  pick  a  court  of  Army  loafers 
to  force  me  out  of  the  service  (Court-martial  No.  9;  Arrest  No.  23)— 
Sentenced  to  dismissal  by  the  court — Commuted  to  suspension  for 
five  years  and  deprived  of  uniform — Washington  city  selected  for  con- 
finement, with  fifty  miles  limit  for  exercise — One  hundred  prominent 
citizens  of  Pennsylvania  sign  set  of  resolutions  and  present  me  with 
a  gold  medal  costing  $300  in  approval  of  my  act  in  resenting  the 
insult  of  Governor  Beaver — Ordered  by  General  Schofield  to  refuse 
medal,  which  I  decline  to  do — Return  answer,  "I  propose  to  accept 
medal,  and  $10,000  would  not  be  an  inducement  to  return  it" — Gen- 
eral Schofield  orders  charges  preferred,  but  finds  my  reply  of  use  as 
a  real-estate  advertisement — Anxious  to  vent  his  spite,  secretly  orders 
medical  board  for  the  purpose  of  adjudging  me  insane — Discovers 
his  mistake — Comments  of  press  on  court-martial  affair. 

CHAPTER    XXIX. 
1890. 

Interview  with  Senator  Stewart,  who  enters  into  one  of  the  largest  real- 
estate  transactions  that  ever  took  place  in  Washington — Present  plan 
for  extending  Connecticut  avenue,  and  require  $3,500,000  in  cash  to 
carry  it  out — Lease  office  and  fill  it  with  stenographers,  clerks,  etc., 


XVI 

invest  $io,coo  in  horses  and  vehicles,  hire  a  lawyer  at  $20  per  day, 
and  purchase  hundreds  of  thousands  of  dollars'  worth  of  property  to 
carry  out  plan  of  extending  the  only  avenue  of  the  city  that  has  ever 
been  carried  outside  the  boundary  to  the  District  line — Donate 
ground  through  my  country  property  for  this  purpose — Letters  of 
General  Spinner  and  others — Thousands  of  dollars  cleared  during 
the  year's  transactions. 

CHAPTER    XXX. 
1891. 

Under  sentence  of  court — Unable  to  engage  in  official  social  features  of 
the  New  Year — Complete  my  part  in  connection  with  purchasing 
land,  extending  avenue  and  building  railroad — Associating  with  Sen- 
ator Stanford,  Senator  Hearst  and  many  other  officials,  who  interest 
themselves  in  transactions — Deliver  address  in  relation  to  the  present 
and  future  of  the  city  of  Washington — Correspondence  with  the  Pres- 
ident in  relation  to  unjust  sentence  being  remitted — President  remits 
sentence  of  five  years'  suspension,  placing  my  status  as  before  trial. 

CHAPTER    XXXI. 
1892. 

Attend  President's  reception  on  New  Year's  Day  for  first  time  since 
court-martial — Take  in  all  social  features  of  the  season — List  of  prop- 
erty accumulated  in  business  transactions  since  retirement,  with  orig- 
inal cost  and  present  value — Entertain  fifty  men  of  the  Second  New 
York  Artillery  at  my  residence  during  the  G.  A.  R.  Encampment — 
.  Reception  given  to  full  regiment — Several  large  transactions  nego- 
tiated during  the  year. 

CHAPTER    XXXII. 
1893. 

Take  active  part  in  social  features  of  the  year — Aide  on  Chief  Marshal 
McMahon's  staff  at  President's  Inauguration — How  General  Grant 
got  his  Arabian  stallion  to  this  country — Letter  from  Governor 
Beaver — Reunion  of  the  Second  Army  Corps. 

CHAPTER    XXXIII. 
1894. 

March  with  the  General  of  the  Army  and  other  officers  to  call  on  the 
President — Other  social  features  of  the  New  Year — Attend  brilliant 
wedding  of  Senator  Charles  J.  Faulkner  at  Hampton,  Va.— Take 
active  part  in  meetings  of  the  Sons  of  the  American  Revolution  and 
Second  Army  Corps  Association— Entertain  several  hundred  promi- 
nent guests  at  birthday  anniversary — Catholic  priest  interferes  with 
family  affairs — Sisters  of  the  Holy  Cross  Convent  connive  with  priest 
in  secreting  daughter— Letters  of  Senator  Redfield  Proctor— Corre- 
spondence with  General  Shafter — Correspondence  with  Cardinal 
Gibbons  in  connection  with  the  dishonorable  acts  of  Fathers  Barry 
and  Stafford  and  Sister  Angelica — Catholic  lawyers  employed  to  se- 
cure  separation — Case  compromised  outside  of  court, 


XV11 

CHAPTER    XXXIV. 
1895. 

March  with  General  Schofield  for  the  last  time  to  call  on  President 
Cleveland — Take  in  customary  social  features  of  the  New  Year — Re- 
quest General  Schofield  to  concur  in  act  authorizing  brevet — Special 
request  made  to  General  Schofield  by  the  following-named  Senators 
to  make  me  brevet  lieutenant-colonel  as  a  personal  favor:  Charles 
H.  Gibson,  Charles  J.  Faulkner,  J.  R.  McPherson,  J.  N.  Camden,  A. 
P.  Gorman,  W.  C.  Squire,  W.  N.  Roach,  Eppa  Hunton,  H.  M.  Teller, 
Charles  F.  Henderson,  John  H.  Mitchell,  C.  K.  Davis,  William  M. 
Stewart,  William  P.  Frye,  O.  H.  Platt,  E.  O.  Walcott,  D.  W.  Voor- 
hees,  Nelson  W.  Aldrich,  W.  B.  Allison,  Justin  S.  Morrill,  J.  B.  Gor- 
don, Joseph  M.  Carey,  J.  C.  Burrows,  John  P.  Jones,  S.  M.  Cullom, 
John  W.  Daniels,  H.  C.  Hansbrough,  N.  C.  Blanchard,  T.  C.  Power, 
R.  Proctor,  John  T.  Morgan,  Francis  E.  Warren,  Stephen  M.  White, 
Edward  Murphy,  Calvin  S.  Brice,  George  C.  Perkins — Also  the  fol- 
lowing Members:  J.  E.  Washington,  W.  M.  Springer,  W.  S.  Eng- 
lish, T.  J.  Campbell,  John  J.  O'Neill,  S.  B.  Cooper,  S.  J.  Schermer- 
horn,  Joseph  H.  O'Neill,  W.  S.  Holman,  E.  N.  Lockwood,  C.  A. 
Cadmus,  S  A.  Geissenhainer,  John  Van  Voorhis,  M.  T.  Stevens, 
Charles  S.  Randall,  A.  C.  Durborow,  J.  W.  Wadsworth,  James  R. 
McCreary,  Ad.  Meyer,  J.  M.  Allen,  E.  J.  Erdman,  T.  W.  Philips,  Jos. 
M.  Outhwaite,  Charles  Tracy,  W.  C.  P.  Breckenridge,  Francis  G. 
Newlands,  George  D.  Wrise,  C.  B.  Kilgore,  T.  M.'  Pachel,  Jason  B. 
Brown,  Henry  H.  Bingham.  A.  B.  Wright,  H.  D.  Money,  Lewis 
Sperry,  George  F.  Huff,  E.  E.  Meredith,  J.  H.  Walker,  C.  H.  Gros- 
vener,  Charles  E.  Hooker,  Thomas  J.  Henderson,  Walter  I.  Hayes, 
J.  C.  Kennon,  W.  J.  Bryan,  A.  S.  Perry,  Elijah  A.  Morse,  Marcus  A. 
Smith,  C.  B.  Culberson,  A.  C.  Harmer,  J.  S.  W.  Marshall,  Seth  L. 
Milliken,  J.  S.  Sherman,  Joseph  Wheeler,  W.  I.  Wilson,  Peter  J. 
Somers,  W.  J.  White,  John  T.  Heard,  Joseph  C.  Sibley,  Thomas  Set- 
tle, B.  McMillan,  William  J.  Cooms,  Edward  J.  Duffy — General 
Schofield.  having  obtained  his  promotion  as  Lieutenant-General, 
ignores  the  Senators  and  Members  who  helped  him  to  secure  it — 
Spicy  correspondence  with  General  Schofield  and  the  War  Depart- 
ment— False  and  malicious  affidavits  fixed  up  and  signed  by  vaga- 
bond negroes  to  ruin  my  character  availed  of  as  an  excuse  for  ignor- 
ing recommendations — Comments  of  the  press  on  Schofield's  under- 
handed and  arbitrary  act — Before  his  retirement,  remind  General 
Schofield  in  a  letter  I  had  given  him  no  cause  for  his  persecutions 
and  making  my  life  a  hell  and  trying  to  ruin  me  through  my  official 
life  by  misrepresentations — General  Schofield  sends  officers  and 
guard  to  private  house  with  orders  to  arrest  and  have  me  confined  in 
a  guard  house  at  Washington  Barracks  (Arrest  No.  24) — Appear  be- 
fore Justice  Bradley  on  writ  of  habeas  corpus — My  release,  and  Gen- 
eral Schofield  scored. 

CHAPTER    XXXV. 
1896. 

Large  assemblage  at  the  War  Department  to  greet  new  and  popular  Gen- 
eral of  the  Army,  General  Nelson  A.  Miles,  who  marched  at  the  head 
of  the  column  to  call  on  the  President,  making  the  most  brilliant  dis- 
play witnessed  for  years— Take  an  active  part  in  the  social  features 


XV111 

of  the  year— Second  Army  Corps,  Sons  of  the  American  Revolution 
and  Army  of  the  Potomac  banquets— Private  property  seized  by  order 
of  Justice  Hagner — Correspondence  with  Gen.  Daniel  Butterfield 
and  Hon.  L.  P.  Morton — Take  an  active  part  in  the  dedication  of  the 
Hancock  statue — March  with  General  Miles  to  Seventh  street  and 
Pennsylvania  avenue,  where  the  monument  of  Hancock  is  erected — 
Renewal  and  withdrawal  of  divorce  case — Newspaper  comments  in 
relation  thereto — Purchase  the  famous  Appomattox  battlefields, 
where  General  Lee  surrendered. 

CHAPTER    XXXVI. 
1897. 

March  as  usual  with  the  Army  officers  from  the  War  Department  to  the 
President's  New  Year's  Day — Take  in  social  features  of  the  season — 
Turn  my  Appomattox  battlefields  into  a  sheep  farm — Correspond- 
ence with  the  War  Department  in  relation  to  brevet — Take  an  active 
part  in  Second  Army  Corps  banquet  at  Hotel  Shoreham,  furnishing 
Appomattox  brandy  for  the  punch — Attend  Second  Army  Corps  at 
Troy,  N.  Y. — Invited  to  lunch  at  the  President's  stand  at  Buffalo,  N. 
Y.,  during  the  Grand  Army  Review — Visit  Montreal — Correspond- 
ence with  the  War  Department. 

CHAPTER    XXXVII. 

1898. 

Attend  reception  at  the  Ebbitt  House  given  by  Queen  Lilliuokalani  and 
the  Hawaiian  Commission,  who  sang,  played  and  entertained  their 
guests  with  mandolin,  guitar  and  piano — Colonel  and  Mrs.  Horn 
give  musical  entertainment  at  their  Corcoran  street  home — General 

C.  H.  Grosvenor  appears  to  take  a  personal  interest  in  my  behalf — 
Gen.  George  B.  Fielder  appointed  chairman  of  the  committee  in  rela- 
tion  to  the   purchase  of  Appomattox   for  a    National    Park — Report 
General  Schofield  to  the  War  Department  in  relation  to  his  cowardice 
during  the  war — Suggest  that  Congress  repeal  act  making  him  Lieu- 
tenant-General  on  account  of  his  disgrace  to  the  American  nation — 
Comments  of  the  press — Letter  to  President   McKinley — Special   re- 
quest and  recommendations  to  the  President  of  the  United  States  to 
make  me  a  Brigadier-General  by  the  following-named  officials:  Amos 
J.  Cummings,  Hugh  A.  Dinstnore,  John  S.   Rhea,  V.  Warner,  A.   S. 
Berry,  John  L.  Brenner,  J.  W.  Washorth,  I.  A.  Walker,  Richard  A. 
Wise,  John  Lamb,  Claude  S.  Swanson,  R.  B.  Hawley,  G.  W.  Curtis, 
Charles  T.  Joy,  J.  Yost,  William  W.  Sweet,  Wallace  T.  Foote,  Rufus 
E.  Leiter,  John  F.  Rixey,  W.   C.  Jones,  John  W.  Ross,  John  A.   T. 
Hull,  Benjamin  F.  Marsh.  Michael  Griffin,  John  H.  Ketcham,  Lucien 
J.  Fenton,  Rowland  B.  Mahany,  Hugh  R.  Belknap,  John  McDonald, 
Walter  P.  Brownlow,  William  Sulzer,  Charles  H.   Martin,    Nicholas 
N.    Cox,  John  J.    Lentz,  James   Hay,    Thomas    M.   Jett,   Marcus   A. 
Smith,  Herman  D.  Reeve,  William  C.  Mentzer,  Lucien  Baker,  James 

D.  Brady,  Henry  H.  Bingham,  T.  G.  Alvord,  John  W.  Daniels,  Thos 
S.  Martin,  J.  S.  Sherman.  J.  J.  Belden,  Frank  H.  Hosford,  John  Rus- 
sell Young,  John  M.  Carson,  D.  E.  McComas,  A.  C.  Bradley,  H.  M. 
Teller.  W.  N.  Roach,  C.  W.  Grosvenor,  J.  M.  Thurston— Underhand 
current  in  the  War  Department  prevents  favorable  action  of  the  Presi- 
dent— Whitewash  board  appointed  to  investigate  the  case — Explana- 
tion of  dishonest  acts  of  officials  in  the  War  Department 


XIX 

CHAPTER    XXXVIII. 
1899. 

Attend  reception  in  full  dress  uniform  as  usual,  meeting  many  friends — 
Take  active  part  in  social  features  of  the  season — Most  of  the  year 
spent  in  trying  to  obtain  justice  of  the  President — Senator  Daniels 
of  Virginia  takes  a  personal  interest  in  my  behalf — Secretary  of  War 
Alger  controlled  in  his  official  acts  by  unreliable  and  untrustworthy 
subordinates — Correspondence  with  the  War  Department  and  Presi- 
dent of  the  United  States — Business  neglected  at  great  financial  sacri- 
fice, on  account  of  time  taken  to  seek  redress  at  the  War  Department 
— General  Miles  concurs  in  Generals  Hancock  and  Sherman's  recom- 
mendation for  brevet  lieutenant-colonel,  making  the  record  clear  and 
ready  for  the  President's  action — President  hesitates  to  act  favorably 
on  account  of  underhanded  misrepresentations  made  to  him — Copies 
of  important  documents  in  relation  to  my  record  denied  me  by  Adju- 
tant-General Corbin — The  worst  mixed  and  mystifying  case  ever  be- 
fore the  War  Department  for  investigation — Suggest  that  the  War 
Department  be  investigated — Account  of  nine  courts-martial  and 
twenty-five  arrests — Papers  with  recommendations  still  before  the 
President  for  action. 


PREFACE. 


The  principal  purpose  of  this  book  is  to  expose  and,  if  possible, 
to  correct  the  wrongs  and  injustice  inflicted  by  unscrupulous  and 
designing  officers  of  the  United  States  Army  upon  brave  and 
honest  junior  officers,  and  not  for  self-adulation  or  to  leave  foot- 
prints on  the  sands  of  time  in  my  own  personal  and  official  career, 
and  I  believe  the  reader  can  readily  observe  that  all  through  my 
experience  my  only  persecutors  have  been  men  whose  characters 
would  not  bear  investigation  and  whose  brutal  natures  are  such 
that  they  should  not  be  placed  in  positions  where  they  can  take 
advantage  of  the  authority  entrusted  to  them.  Many  men  are  of 
such  caliber  that  they  cannot  bear  prosperity.  The  reader  of  this 
book  who  concludes  that  I  may  have  drawn  an  unreal  picture  of 
Schofield,  unfairly  indicating  his  career,  should  study  his  life  as 
written  by  himself. 

Having  kept  a  diary  since  1861,  I  am  enabled  to  refresh  my 
memory  from  extracts,  omitting  many  events  that  would  prove 
interesting,  but  much  too  sentimental,  but  believe  I  will  be  upheld 
and  sustained  by  all  fair-minded  persons. 

From  my  past  career,  some  may  be  under  the  impression 
that  I  have  been  a  mischief-maker,  meddling  with  affairs  that  do 
not  concern  me,  but  the  reader  can  readily  see  that  my  course  has 
been  taken  only  in  self-defence ;  that  I  have  given  the  true  caliber 
of  my  persecutors  and  in  some  cases  exposed  their  unscrupulous 
dishonesty  and  brutal  acts,  showing  that  they  should  be  classed 
more  as  animals  than  as  human  beings.  There  seems  to  be  a  de- 
termination among  Army  officers  of  a  certain  class  that  a  restored 
officer  should  not  remain  in  the  Army,  and  all  kinds  of  under- 
handed measures  are  resorted  to  to  make  his  life  unbearable  or 
force  him  out. 

(i) 


In  my  case  it  was  the  determination  of  General  Grierson  and 
others  to  heap  upon  me  all  the  indignities  possible  in  order  that  I 
might  be  forced  to  resign  and  make  room  for  some  one  else.  When 
it  is  found  from  his  record  that  he  sprang  up  to  the  position  of  a 
Major-General  from  that  of  a  common  bone-rattler  in  a  minstrel 
troupe  you  will  appreciate  the  kind  of  characters  that  occasionally 
get  into  prominent  positions. 

In  the  Graham  case  it  was 
known  by  many  that  when  under- 
going a  sentence  in  the  peniten- 


tiary for  attempted  murder 
and  robbery  he  had  been  par- 
doned and  was  finally  com- 
missioned a  captain  in  the 
regular  Army,  and  because 
I  brought  to  light  some  of 
his  dishonest  and  disgraceful 
acts  General  Schofield,  Col- 
onel Nelson,  Colonel  Merrill, 

General  Grierson  Entertaining  His  Friends. 
Major  Page  and  others  took  his  part  against  me,  although  they 
knew  well  that  he  was  one  of  the  worst  villains  that  breathed. 
Being  a  good  gambler,  however,  some  officers  were  largely  in- 
debted to  him,  and  money  goes  a  great  way  in  some  places. 

In  regard  to  the  Dutchman,  -  — ,  he  has  always  had  the 
"cheek"  of  a  brass  band  and  has  succeeded  in  gulling  many  and 
making  them  believe  that  he  is  an  individual  of  some  importance. 


Landing  at  Castle  Garden,  he  was  afterwards  put  in  the  band  by 
reason  of  his  blowing  his  own  trumpet,  and,  taking  advantage  of 


Just  Landing  at  Castle  Garden. 

the  weakness  of  ignorant  conspirators,  he  finally  succeeded,  when 
his  brother-in-law  was  in  great  favor  with  the  President,  in  being 
made  brigadier-general. 


The  Army  Lawyer  Blowing  His  Own  Horn. 


Calls  on  President  in  New  Uniform  of  Brigadier  General. 


I  mention  only  the  foregoing  as  examples  of  those  with  whom  I 
have  been  brought  in  personal  contact.  If  there  are  others  in  the 
Army  of  the  same  caliber  I  leave  it  for  some  one  else  to  single  them 
out ;  but  these  individuals  have  been  my  unrelenting  persecutors 
for  many  years.  There  is  no  doubt  but  that  an  investigation  will 
show  many  in  official  life  of  the  same  stamp  as  those  I  have  just 
mentioned. 

Although  their  number  is  so  great  as  to  preclude  individual 
mention  in  this  place,  I  am  proud  of  the  stainless  character  of 
those  who  have  ever  stood  by  me  in  my  trials  and  tribulations,  and 
my  gratitude  to  them  shall  be  unfailing  while  life  shall  last.  May 
the  Giver  of  all  good  keep  them,  one  and  all,  in  everlasting 
remembrance.  Among  them  I  cannot  forbear  naming : 

C.  H.  Burgess,  with  whom  I  have  been  associated  for  over  thirty- 
five  years,  now  a  director  in  one  of  our  prominent  banks,  and  one  of 
the  leading  business  men  of  the  District,  who  has  shown  his  true 
friendship  and  confidence  in  me  by  his  acts  and  deeds.  Nothing 
that  has  been  said  or  published  against  me  by  my  enemies  or  tra- 
ducers  has  had  the  least  effect  in  shaking  his  confidence.  There 
has  not  been  an  instance  when  I  have  been  in  need  of  funds  but 
what  he  has  come  to  my  rescue,  and  when  not  having  it  to  hand 
me  in  cash,  has  always  managed  to  procure  it  in  any  amount  that 
I  required.  Hon.  M.  G.  Emery,  a  leading  banker ;  Wheatley  Bros., 
well-known  lumber  merchants;  J.  B.  Lambie ;  M.  C.  Mitchell, 
stoves  and  tinware  ;  Brookes  &  Clark,  hardware  merchants ;  Lans- 
burgh  Bros.,  dry  goods  merchants ;  Hahn,  the  shoe-dealer ;  Muth 
&  Co.,  paints  and  oils ;  William  McKnew,  dry  goods ;  Saks  &  Co., 
clothiers  ;  King's  Palace,  millinery,  etc.;  Stinemetz  &  Son,  hatters  ; 
Crane,  Paris  &  Co.,  bankers — are  among  the  business  men  who 
have  known  me  personally  for  years  and  have  given  me  unlimited 
credit.  Their  friendship  has  been  proven  by  their  acts. 

Among  others  are  three  Waggaman  brothers,  whom  I  must  not 
fail  to  mention  as  having  done  more  towards  the  advancement, 
development  and  beautifying  of  the  District  and  adding  to  its  at- 
tractions by  laying  out  streets  and  parks  than  any  other  three  men 
here — Thomas  E.,  treasurer  of  the  Catholic  University;  H.  P., 
in  regard  to  the  beautifying  of  the  suburbs ;  John  F.,  having  been 


a  large  real-estate  owner,  and  through  his  energy,  foresightjand 
advanced  ideas  originated  features  of  great  attraction  for  the 
welfare  of  not  only  the  residents  of  and  visitors  to  Washington, 
but  for  many  other  cities  whose  citizens  who  desire  to  enjoy  the 
advantages  at  "Ocean  City,"  which  he  has  beautified  at  great 


C.  H.  BURGESS. 


expense,  and  which  is  one  of  the  most  desirable  summer  resorts 
around  any  of  the  cities  in  the  Union. 

And  I  must  not  fail  to  mention  Mr.  C.  C.  Willard,  one  of  the 
energetic  and  self-made  business  men  of  the  District,  owner  of  the 
Ebbitt,  the  established  headquarters  for  the  Army  and  Navy ;  also 


j.  W.  Thompson,  one  of  the  leading  bankers  and  one  of  the  largest 
real-estate  owners  in  the  District,  who  came  to  my  rescue  at  a  time 
of  need,  advancing  me  several  thousand  dollars;  T.  Franklin 
Schneider,  who  has  built  over  3000  houses,  and  John  Sherman, 
who  was  one  of  the  principals  in  beautifying  Cleveland  Park. 

Among  the  popular  and  successful  real-estate  brokers  are  W.  H. 
Saunders,  Heiskell  &  McLeran,  L.  P.  Shoemaker  and  W.  F.  Ellis, 
who  represent  facts  without  color. 

Among  the  lawyers  are  E.  L.  McClelland  and  C.  G.  Lee,  with 
whom  I  have  been  associated  for  a  number  of  years  in  the  same 
office,  where  we  have  been  brought  in  daily  contact  with  each 
other  in  many  transactions,  with  whom  no  disruption  has  ever  oc- 
curred and  who  are  ready  to  lend  a  helping  hand  if  necessary  in 
any  connection  where  their  aid  would  be  of  service  to  me.  Gen. 
William  Birney,  one  of  the  oldest  lawyers  at  the  bar,  has  been  on 
the  most  friendly  terms  with  me  for  years ;  the  firms  of  Douglass, 
Mackall  &  Maedel,  E.  Thomas,  Henry  E.  Davis,  Wm.  C.  Prentiss, 
Shellabarger  &  Wilson,  B.  F.  Grafton  and  Ralston  &  Siddons, 
who  have  been  my  main  attorneys  in  many  transactions,  and  are 
still  in  matters  that  are  continually  coming  to  the  front. 

Among  the  Senators  I  feel  it  my  duty  to  mention  by  name  Sen- 
ator John  W.  Daniel  of  Virginia,  who  has  given  weeks  of  his  time 
to  looking  over  papers  and  records  and  keeping  himself  familiar 
with  the  attacks  upon  me  and  the  source  from  which  they  come. 
Senator  Bushman  K.  Davis  is  another  one  of  the  most  prominent 
lawyers  of  our  country  who  has  kindly  taken  interest  of  a  sym- 
pathetic nature  to  see  that  I  get  justice.  I  flatter  myself  that  I 
have  in  them  two  of  the  most  eminent  lawyers  this  country  has 
ever  produced  to  aid  me.  As  they  are  so  well  known  and  idolized 
by  the  country  it  is  not  necessary  for  me  to  say  more.  Senators 
H.  M.  Teller,  F.  M.  Cockrell,  Lucien  Baker,  Clarence  D.  Clark, 
Shelby  M.  Cullom,  William  P.  Frye,  J.  B.  Foraker,  H.  C.  Hans- 
brough,  George  F.  Hoar,  William  M.  Stewart,  J.  P.  Jones, 
J.  McMillan,  T.  S.  Martin,  H.  D.  Money,  J.  C.  Spooner,  G.  L. 
Shoup,  J.  M.'Thurston,  J.  T.  Morgan,  E.  W.  Pettus,  W.  P.  Kel- 
logg, F.  E.  Warren  and  S.  B.  Elkins;  the  late  S.  B.  Maxey  and 
James  G.  Blaine  have  also  shown  a  strong  friendship  for  me. 


8 

Among  the  members  of  the  House  of  Representatives  who  have 
been  my  true  and  able  supporters  are  Hon.  John  C.  Coburn,  chair- 
man .of  the  Military  Committee;  Joseph  W.  Babcock,  James  J. 
Belden,  Henry  H.  Bingham,  Charles  A.  Boutelle,  Gen.  B.  M. 
Cutcheon,  Gen.  J.  A.  T.  Hull,  now  chairman  of  the  Military  Com- 
mittee, Robert  G.  Cousins,  Amos  I.  Cummings,  George  M.  Curtis, 
R.  C.  DeGrafenreid,  Hugh  A.  Dinsmore,  James  Hay,  William 
Sulzer  of  New  York,  C.  H.  Grosvenor,  John  H.  Ketcham,  Benton 
McMillan,  Benjamin  F.  Marsh,  Edwin  R.  Ridgely ;  also  the  late 
Hon.  Frank  Morey,  Levi  P.  Maish  and  Richard  A.  Wise,  who  took 
a  personal  interest  in  my  behalf,  as  shown  by  their  acts  and  deeds. 

I  mention  the  following  names  of  newspaper  men  with  whom  I 
have  been  connected  personally  and  who  nobly  defended  me  on  the 
ground  of  justice : 

John  Russell  Young;  L.  A.  Coolidge,  Boston  Journal,  New  York 
Commercial;  F.  P.  Morgan,  Boston  Traveler;  F.  A.  Richardson, 
\V.  W.  Smith,  Baltimore  Sun;  A.  B.  Atkins,  Brooklyn  Daily  Eagle; 
C.  A.  Hamilton,  Brooklyn  Times;  Walter  Stilson  Hutchins,  Wash- 
ington Times;  Julius  Guthridge,  Buffalo  Commercial;  Frank  H. 
Hosford,  Anaconda  Standard  and  other  papers;  R.  M.  Larner, 
Charleston  News;  W.  L.  Crounse,  Detroit  Free  Press;  John  M. 
Carson,  Philadelphia  Ledger;  William  E.  Curtis,  Chicago  Record; 
Gen.  W.  H.  Roberts,  of  the  press;  Smith  D.  Fry,  Des  Moines 
Register;  E.  B.  Smith,  Washington  Post;  Raymond  Patterson, 
Chicago  Tribune;  William  C.  McBride,  S.  E.  Johnson,  W.  K. 
Richardson,  Cincinnati  Enquirer;  John  S.  Shriver^ Cincinnati 
Times-Star;  Charles  A.  Edwards,  San  Antonio  Express,  Houston 
Post;  Charles  C.  Carlton,  New  York  Herald;  W.  A.  Edwards,  Kan- 
sas City  Times;  O.  O.  Stealey  and  H.  Watterson  Stealey,  Louisville 
Courier- Journal;  H.  C.  Stevens,  Newburg  Daily  News;  J.  M.  Sarvis, 
New  York  Daily  News;  R.  Schroeder,  New  York  Standard 
Zcitung;  E.  J.  Gibson,  Philadelphia  Press;  William  B.  Shaw,  Phila- 
delphia Inquirer;  H.  B.  F.  McFarland,  Philadelphia  Record;  W.  R. 
Bell,  Pittsburg  Leader;  A.  E.  Heiss,  Pittsburg  Dispatch;  Charles  W. 
Metzger,  Pittsburg  Commercial  Gazette,  Albany  Journal  and  St. 
Louis  Globe-Democrat ;  A.  S.  Ayres,  manager  of  Scripps-McRae 
Press  Association  ;  Albert  J.  Stofer,  C.  A.  Boynton,  Associated 


Press;  G.  E.  Gilliland,  Toledo  Bee;  H.  L.  West,  Washington  Post; 
Robert  O.  Bailey,  Washington  Times;  Edward  M.  Boyd,  San  Fran- 
cisco Chronicle;  Gen.  H.  C.  Boynton,  Associated  Press ;  Henry  C. 
Hayes,  New  York  Sun;  ].  A.  Mathews,  Chicago  News;  Charles  T. 
Thompson,  Associated  Press;  J.  S.  Van  Antwerp,  San  Francisco 
Examiner  and  The  Wisconsin  (Milwaukee) ;  Francis  E.  Leupp, 
New  York  Evening  Post;  George  W.  Rouzer,  John  C.  Williams 
and  C.  O'Laughlin,  New  York  Herald;  E.  G.  Dunnell  New  York 
Times;  Selden  N.  Clark,  New  York  Tribune;  Max  F.  Ihmsen  and 
Mr.  Stevens,  St.  Louis  Globe-Democrat;  Mr.  Tighe,  New  York 
Journal;  C.  H.  Ridenour  and  J.  E.  Jenks,  Army  and  Navy  Regis- 
ter; Captain  Church,  Ne-w  York  Army  and  Navy  Journal;  Fred 
Crawford,  Horace  J. -Mock,  World;  J.  A.  Sarvis,  Wall  Street 
News;  J.  A.  Breckon,  Denver  Republican;  Fred  Schade,  Washing- 
ton Sentinel,  and  the  late  J.  J.  Noah. 

I  think  the  reader  will  sustain  me  when  I  say  the  newspaper  men 
on  duty  in  Washington  cannot  be  excelled  in  any  city  in  the  world 
for  reliability,  intelligence,  uprightness  of  character,  championship 
of  justice  and  in  representing  the  true  state  of  affairs  at  the  capital 
of  the  nation. 

Among  my  noted  entertainers  I  must  not  fail  to  mention  my 
personal  friend,  the  late  John  Chamberlin,  who  was  known  for  his 
genial  entertaining  qualities  by  almost  every  man  of  note  in  the 
country,  whose  pictures  still  grace  the  walls  of  his  famous  hotel. 
It  is  impossible  for  me  to  say  anything  that  will  add  to  his  popu- 
larity. Mr.  Edward  K.  Somborn,  his  business  associate  and  con- 
fidential friend,  has  succeeded  him,  and  the  resort  is  as  popular 
and  as  entertaining  as  ever,  with  additional  attractions  to  satisfy 
the  many  noted  visitors  who  naturally  congregate  to  enjoy  the  hos- 
pitalities and  listen  to  the  stories  of  their  genial  and  entertaining 
host. 

I  desire  to  mention  also  a  few  names  of  my  personal  friends  of 
the  Army  who  have  proved  their  true  worth  through  all  my  ups 
and  downs,  among  whom  are  the  following : 
Gen.  U.  S.  Grant.  Gen.  W.  T.  Sherman. 

Maj.-Gen.  W.  S.  Hancock.  Maj.-Gen.  Nelson  A.  Miles, 

George  Meade.  John  R.  Brooke. 


10 


Geh.  Mansfield. 

J.  S.  Wadsworth. 

0.  O.  Howard. 
Horatio  Wright. 
F.  J.  Porter. 
Daniel  H.  Rucker. 
John  Sedgwick. 

1.  N.  Palmer. 
E.  A.  Burnside. 

B.  P.  Runkle. 
William  Smith. 
John  M.  Wilson. 
Edward  Hinks. 
J.  C.  Kelton. 
John  Moore. 
Rufus  Ingalls. 
Seth  Williams. 

William  H.  Penrose. 
William  W.  Averill. 
J.  C.  Breckenridge. 
Asa  P.  Carey. 
Arthur  McArthur. 
Daniel  E.  Sickles. 
William  H.  Nash. 
William  Ludlow. 
Adolphus  W.  Greely. 
Charles  E.  Compton. 
Thomas  M.  Anderson. 
William  P.  Carlin. 
Col.  Charles  Bird,  Asst.  Q.  M. 
William  H.  Carter. 
J.  VV.  French. 
D.  S.  Gordon. 
Peter  C.  Haines. 
William  A.  Elderkin. 
William  A.  Forwood. 

C.  R.  Greenleaf. 


Gen.  Edwin  V.  Sumner. 
William  Rosecrans. 
John  Gibbon. 
John  A.  Rollins. 
O.  B.  Willcox. 
Rufus  Saxton. 
S.  P.  Heintzelman. 
Francis  Barlow. 
Daniel  Butterfield. 
Philip  St.  George  Cooke. 
William  R.  Shafter. 
Thaddeus  H.  Stanton. 
Leonard  Wood. 

A.  S.  Divin. 

M.  I.  Ludington. 
James  A.  Hardie. 
Robert  Williams. 
Ward  B.  Burnell. 
F.  C.  Ainsworth. 
R.  N.  Batchelder. 
Z.  P.  Bliss. 
Jacob  F.  Kent. 
John  P.  Hawkins. 
William  S.  Worth. 
C.  H.  Thompkins. 
Robert  MacFeely. 
Guy  V.  Henry. 
William  A.  Hammond. 

Edward  M.  Hayes. 
H.  B.  Carrington. 
C.  B.  Comstock. 

B.  E.  Friar. 
John  Green. 

H.  C.  Dunwoody. 
O.  D.  Green. 
J.  P.  Hatch. 


II 


James  G.  C.  Lee. 
Albert  P.  Morrow. 
Galusha  Pennypacker. 
Charles  Porter. 
James  S.  Casey. 
Edward  M.  Coates. 
Charles  Smart. 
Rodney  Smith. 
Peter  D.  Vroom. 
Frank  E.  Nye. 
S.  Van  Vliet. 
Andrew  Geddes. 

F.  D.  Baldwin. 
Lewis  R.  Hare. 
George  W.  Getty. 

Maj.  Edmund  Rice. 
Charles  Bentzoni. 
John  D.  Black  of  General 

Miles'  staff  during  both 

wars. 
John  A.  Darling. 

E.  W.  Halford. 
R.  L.  Hoxie. 
Frederick  M.  Crandall. 
John  D.  Hall. 

S.  H.  Lincoln. 
Edward  G.  Mathey. 
George  C.  Penney. 
Culver  C.  Smith. 
T.  E.  True. 

G.  F.  Robinson. 
Edward  F.  Glenn. 
Roland  G.  Hill. 
John  G.  Balance. 
H.  Gardner. 

F.  M.  H.  Kendrick. 
E.  B.  Kirk. 


George  A.  Forsyth. 
James  Oakes. 
John  S.  Poland. 
A.  F.  Rockwell. 
Henry  W.  Closson. 
George  M.  Randall. 
Charles  H.  Smith. 
Thomas  Whittemore. 
Henry  C.  Wood. 
R.  G.  Rutherford. 
John  F.  Weston. 
Edward  Moale. 
Charles  F.  Humphrey. 
William  P.  Hall. 

Daniel  V.  Bash. 
William  M.  Black. 
John  S.  Bullis. 
William  H.  Clapp. 
John  L.  Clem. 
W.  S.  Edgerly. 
W.  F.  Halleck. 
Jessie  M.  Lee. 
Edward  Field. 
Thomas  T.  Knbx. 
H.  G.  Litchfield. 
William  M.  Manydear. 
Edward  L.  Randall. 
G.  W.  H.  Stouch. 
J.  C.  Muhlenberg. 
W.  Lyman. 
George  F.  Cooke. 
William  Davis. 
J.  W.  Hanny. 
Thomas  A.  Buchanan. 
William  H.  James. 
William  W.  Tavlor. 


Douglass  M.  Scott. 
Thomas  H.  Barry. 
William  V.  Richards. 
Samuel  R.  Whitehall. 
Alexander  Rogers. 
James  M.  Burns. 

Capt.  James  A.  Bates. 
John  A.  Depray. 
Mason  M.  Maxon. 
Peter  Leary,  Jr. 
Oscar  F.  Long. 
E.  O.  C.  Ord. 
Herman  Schreiner. 
Edward  Burr,  U.  S.  Eng. 
William  H.  Vinal. 
Thomas  W.  Lord. 
Edward  P.  Brewer. 
Edward  Lloyd. 
John  M.  Carson. 
John  T.  Morrison. 
Guy  L,.  Edie. 

Lieut.  Mervyn  C.  Buckeye. 
V.  G.  Henry. 
John  J.  O'Connell. 
C.  C.  Cresson. 


Ezra  Woodruff. 
Valentine  McNally. 
Alexander  Sharp. 
George  II.  Palmer. 
Philip  Reed. 


J.  B.  McDonald. 
Henry  H.  Benham. 
C.  E.  DeRudio. 
L.  W.  Cook. 
A.  M.  Fuller. 
William  P.  Goodwin. 
John  W.  Bean. 
H.  B.  Lemly. 
Samuel  W.  Fountain. 
Robt.  H.  R.  Loughborough. 
Percy  E.  Trippe. 
Edward  Zalinski. 
Frederick  D.  Sharp. 
John  C.  Dent. 
Chaplain  Francis  H.  Weaver. 

George  E.  Albee. 
Chas.  P.  Faulkner. 
Powell  Clayton. 


UPS  AND  DOWNS 

OF   AN 

ARMY  OFFICER. 


CHAPTER  I. 

Having  been  requested  by  many  friends  and  acquaintances  to 
give  a  sketch  of  my  past  life,  I  have  obtained  the  following  names 
and  dates  from  relatives,  records  and  other  sources  as  to  the  Armes 
family.  William  Armes,  a  Scotch  lawyer,  located  with  his 
brother  among  the  first  settlers  in  Deerfield,  Mass.  In  this  beauti- 
ful spot,  with  Deerfield  mountains  looming  above  them, 'with  ter- 
rors of  Indian  warfare  on  every  side,  they  established  their  homes 
and  reared  their  children. 

In  the  memorable  massacre  of  1675  several  of  their  descendants 
met  a  dreadful  fate,  and  again,  in  1704,  they  passed  through  the 
horrors  of  Indian  captivity.  Several  members  of  the  Armes  and 
Orcult  families  distinguished  themselves  in  the  French  and  Indian 
war,  and  for  their  active  participation  in  that  turbulent  period  the 
family  presents  a  creditable  record. 

I  am  also  a  descendant  of  the  Lymans  of  Massachusetts,  the 
families  of  Hudson,  Van  Dyck,  Field,  Kibbey,  Wallace,  Parker, 
Powell,  W'ilscn,  Burrell,  Emerson  and  Orcutt.  My  paternal 
grandfather,  James  Orcutt  of  Goshen,  Mass.,  was  an  officer  in  the 
Massachusetts  militia.  He  commanded  a  company  for  a  time  at 
West  Point,  and  served  with  honor  in  the  Hudson  river  cam- 


paign.  He  was  a  personal  and  trusted  friend  of  Washington;  one 
in  whom  the  commander-in-chief  placed  great  confidence,  as  was 
evidenced  by  the  fact  that,  on  the  night  after  the  treachery  of  Ben- 
edict Arnold  was  discovered,  General  Washington  selected  Col- 
onel Orcutt  and  his 
command  to  guard  the 
great  chain  across  the 
Hudson  river,  one  of 
the  most  important 
posts  at  that  eventful 
time, 

My  father,  Profes- 
sor Josiah  O.  Armes, 
was  born  in  Deerfield, 
Mass.,  in  1807.  He 
was  a  gentleman  of 


high  literary 
and  scientific 
attainments, 
and  a  distin- 
guished, pop- 
ular and  suc- 
cessful lec- 
turer on  edu- 
cational top- 
ics for  many 
years  before 
and  after  our 


The  Deerfield  Home. 


Civil  War.  He  traveled  extensively  through  the  Union,  meeting 
with  brilliant  success  in  his  lecturing  tours  and  becoming  per- 
sonally identified  with  the  leading  men  or  our  mid-century. 


15 

My  mother,  Olive  Caroline  Older,  shortly  after  her  marriage, 
located  in  Fairfax  county,  Virginia,  near  Annandale,  pur- 
chasing an  estate  and  erecting  a  magnificent  stone  mansion,  which 
was  known  as  "Hope  Castle."  This  was  a  spacious  structure,  con- 


taining thirty-six  rooms,  fur 
nished  in  the  best  style  of  that 
day,  and  the  surrounding 
grounds  were  laid  out  in  a  beau- 
tiful and  diversified  manner, 
There  were,  besides,  thirteen 
outbuildings  and  cabins,  mak- 
ing a  complete  home,  with  every 
convenience.  Receiving  Orders 

•From  General  Washington. 

My  mother  was  accomplished  and  talented,  of  great  musical 
ability,  and  a  charming  hostess.  I  shall  never  forget  the  good 
times  I  had  at  "Hope  Castle,"  which  became  noted  for  its  delight- 
ful social  entertainments,  its  unrivaled  hospitality  and  attractive 
ensemble.  It  was  a  resort  for  friends,  and  strangers  as  well.  In  the 
absence  of  my  father  my  mother,  with  great  managerial  ability, 
looked  after  the  various  business  matters  conected  with  the  estate,, 
in  addition  to  looking  after  three  boys,  who  naturally  took  a  great 
deal  of  her  time. 


i6 

In  this  beautiful  home  we  three  brothers,  Charles  H.,  William 
Edward  and  myself,  spent  our  happy  days  of  childhood  until  the 
shadows  of  rebellion  shrouded  us  in  gloom,  and  the  fiery  torrent  of 
war,  sweeping  as  a  desolating  fury  over  the  country,  engulfed  our 
lovely  home  in  its  destructive  track. 


My  Childhood  Home. 

I  was  born  on  the  2Qth  of  May,  1844,  and  as  far  back  as  I  can 
remember  have  been  doing  something  different  from  the  or- 
dinary ;  but,  while  at  first  I  have  been  censured  by  many  for  alleged 
irregularities  of  judgment  and  for  exhibiting  advanced  ideas,  I 
have  most  always  proved  in  the  end  to  have  been  right. 

When  I  was  a  young  boy  a  love  for  horses  developed,  increasing 
as  years  passed  on,  until  in  time  my  love  became  a  passion.  When 
only  six  or  seven  years  of  age  I  took  a  fancy  for  an  old  horse  on 
the  farm  called  Charlie  and  induced  my  parents  to  present  him  to 
me.  It  was  not  long  before  I  had  the  docile  animal  trained  to  kick 


and  bite  almost  everyone  but  myself  who  approached  him,  and  he 
soon  refused  to  pull  a  wagon  or  work  for  anyone  else.  I  had  a 
great  deal  of  amusement  with  the  horse,  going  to  the  postoffice  at 
Annandale,  situated  about  a  mile  from  my  home,  to  which  village 
I  rode  frequently  after  the  mail,  which  in  those  days  was  carried 
by  the  "Whaleys  and  Latham  stages."  Often  the  stage  would  be 
delayed  at  the  request  of  passengers,  who  would  beg  me  to  put 
"Charlie"  through  his  many  little  tricks.  Removing  saddle  and 
bridle,  I  would  say  "Go,"  and  off  he  would  gallop  for  a  few  yards, 
and  at  my  command,  "Come,"  would  lay  back  his  ears  and  charge 


^-^ 


Charlie. 

at  me,  his  mouth  wide  open  as  if  ready  to  bite  viciously,  and  end 
by  putting  his  head  on  my  shoulder  and  standing  perfectly  still. 
At  the  motion  of  my  hand  Charlie  would  kneel,  sit  down  like  a 
dog,  lie  flat,  stand  on  his  hind  legs,  pick  up  a  pail  of  water  and 
carry  it  in  his  mouth  or  pull  off  my  boots  in  obedience  to  orders. 

We  had  in  our  family  at  this  time  a  governess  and  a  German 
tutor  for  the  children,  but  I  could  not  be  induced  to  remain  in 
the  house,  and  much  of  the  time  managed  to  avoid  my  teachers  in 
one  way  or  another,  and  would  be  found  with  old  "Charlie." 
Finally  I  became  so  neglectful  of  my  studies  and  "Charlie"  so 
dangerous,  having  bitten  several  of  the  darkies,  the  cook,  the 
nurse,  the  governess  and  the  tutor,  that  violent  opposition  devel- 


i8 

oped  against  the  poor  beast;  but  despite  this  opposition  I  man- 
aged to  retain  my  four-foot  companion  until  he  bit  the  overseer 
of  the  farm,  who,  prevailing  with  my  parents,  obtained  their  per- 
mission to  dispose  of  the  vexatious  animal. 

Shortly  after  my  loss  of  this  favorite  horse  I  was  sent  to  a  board- 
ing-school at  Vienna  in  my  native  county,  where  I  soon  became 
dissatisfied,  and  succeeded  in  securing  a  change  to  a  school  at 
Centerville,  Va.  Here  I  was  allowed  to  have  a  Bell  Founder  colt, 
which  was  named  "Mary  Ann,"  and  soon  trained  to  perform  all 
sorts  of  tricks  for  the  benefit  of  my  schoolmates. 

In  these  days  of  my  boyhood  I  took  great  interest  in  reading 
all  kinds  of  histories  relating  to  war.  I  acquired  a  habit  of 
sitting  up  until  the  early  hours  of  the  morning,  absorbed  in  the 
campaigns  of  Napoleon  Bonaparte  and  Washington.  The.  tactics 
of  war  elicited  my  admiration,  and  I  soon  had  all  the  boys  in  the 
school  organized  into  a  company,  armed  with  sticks  and  corn- 
stalks, and  it  seemed  as  natural  for  me  to  engage  in  this  mimic 
warfare  as  it  was  to  eat. 

The  following  is  a  letter  written  by  my  mother  while  I  was  at- 
tending school  at  Centerville,  Va. : 


19 


i 


ft 


20 

I  must  not  fail  to  call  attention  to  what  was  considered  at  the 
time  a  remarkable  transaction,  which  gave  me  notoriety  through- 
out my  section  of  the- country  as  doing  something  unheard  of  be- 
fore. When  only  eight  or  ten  years  of  age  I  was  driving  up  the 
Leesburg  pike  near  Falls  Church,  Va.,  in  a  sulky,  and  for  several 
months  had  been  wishing  to  be  the  owner  of  a  buggy,  watching 
every  opportunity  to  obtain  one.  Finally  a  good-looking  horse 
and  buggy  with  a  gentleman  driving  appeared  coming  towards  me, 
I  mustered  up  courage  enough  to  stop  him,  although  I  had  never 
seen  him  before,  saying:  ''Excuse  me,  sir,  but  I  would  like  to 
know  how  you  would  exchange  your  horse,  harness  and  buggy  for 
my  horse,  harness  and  sulky ?"  He  got  out  and  examined  mine 
very  carefully,  and  after  a  few  questions  about  the  pedigree  of 
my  horse,  he  giving  that  of  his,  and  our  names  and  addresses  hav- 
ing been  exchanged,  he  said  he  would  trade  even,  whereupon  he 
got  into  my  sulky  and  I  into  his  buggy,  each  flattering  himself  that 
he  had  made  the  better  bargain.  We  became  warm  friends  after- 
wards. During  the  war  of  the  rebellion  he  obtained  employment 
rn  the  Treasury  Department,  and  most  of  the  time  kept  up  his 
residence  at  Falls  Church,  Va.  He  was  a  well-known  Union  man 
of  that  section,  his  name  being  Mr.  Spencer  Coe. 

After  that  transaction  old  horse-traders  advised  me  always  to 
require  a  "cash-to-boot"  difference  and  never  trade  even  with  any- 
one. So  I  made  up  my  mind  to  make  a  horse  trade  the  first  chance 
that  offered,  and  as  I  was  allowed  to  have  my  own  way,  I  could 
order  any  horse  on  the  place  that  I  wanted  to,  although  I  had  two 
of  my  own.  I  had  a  grudge  against  the  overseer  for  harshness  to 
me,  and  knew  he  greatly  valued  a  large  bay  horse  called  Sam. 
So  I  ordered  Sam  hitched  up  to  the  buggy,  and  driving  towards 
Fairfax  Court  House,  met  quite  a  number  of  six-horse  teams  on 
the  way  to  Alexandria.  In  one  case,  spying  rather  a  good-looking 
small  horse  in  the  lead,  I  stopped  the  team.  The  owner  soon 
came  along  on  horseback,  when  the  driver  of  the  team,  a  good- 
natured  and  polite  old  darkey,  pointed  him  out  to  me,  and  I  asked 
him  how  he  would  trade  his  little  sorrel  for  my  big  bay.  After 
looking  my  horse  over,  he  said  he  would  give  me  $10  to  boot.  I 
said,  "Make  it  $25  cash  and  I  will  trade."  He  said,  "All  right," 


21 

and  had  his  teamster  put  his  horse  into  my  buggy  and  mine  to  his 
wagon,  and  we  parted  without  even  asking  each  other's  names. 
I  felt  proud  of  the  trade  and  thought  I  had  made  a  big  bargain, 
but  knew  the  overseer  would  go  wild  when  he  saw  the  little  horse, 
and  sure  enough  he  did.  The  next  morning  after  my  return  home 
I  told  my  mother  at  the  breakfast  table  what  a  big  trade  I  had 
made,  when  she  smiled,  stating  the  overseer  was  very  much  vexed, 
said  the  little  horse  was  not  fit  to  be  on  the  place,  and  had  turned 
him  out  in  the  road  as  being  worthless,  and  let  him  go.  Finally 
my  mother  suggested  that  I  ought  not  to  trade  away  any  more 
horses  until  I  grew  older,  and  I  took  her  advice.  Sam  being  a 
$300  horse,  and  $25  all  that  was  realized  for  him,  furnished  a  les- 
son too  costly  for  repeating. 

Before  the  war  the  pride  of  the  Old  Dominion  was  largely  in 
the  great  number  and  fine  breed  of  horses  which  were  a  part  of 
every  manorial  domain.  It  was  the  custom  for  the  Southern  boys 
to  have  their  own  racers,  and  naturally  each  boy  tried  to  keep  the 
best  breed  and  fastest  steed  he  could  procure,  creating  quite  a 
rivalryin  blue-blooded  equine  pedigrees.  Through  woodland  glade 
and  over  abounding  field,  with  clang  of  horn  and  sweep  of  dogs, 
careened  the  jovial  huntsmen,  as  did  their  forefathers  in  days  of 
yore  in  "Merrie  England."  The  coterie  to  which  I  belonged  con- 
sisted of  about  sixty  young  men.  Most  of  our  time  was  spent  in 
fox  and  deer  hunting,  attending  fairs,  getting  up  tournaments, 
horse  races,  etc. — generallv  speaking,  having  what  was  then  con- 
sidered a  good  time.  Our  parents  indulged  us  to  an  unlimited  ex- 
tent in  these  rural  pastimes,  delighting  in  our  innocent  sports,  into 
which  the  young  people  entered  with  the  most  hearty  zeal,  dis- 
porting themselves  with  that  exuberance  of  animal  spirits  charac- 
teristic of  the  Anglo-Saxon  race. 

When  the  State  of  Virginia  seceded,  April  24,  1861,  Capt.  James 
W.  Jackson  (who  afterwards  killed  Colonel  Ellsworth)  then  kept 
two  hotels,  one  in  Alexandria,  Va.,  known  as  the  Marshall  House, 
the  other  at  Fairfax  Court  House,  known  as  the  "Union  Hotel." 
He  was  very  popular  among  the  boys,  being  the  principal  in 
nearly  all  the  tournaments  and  other  entertainments.  After  the 
State  seceded  the  "boys"  were  called  together  at  Fairfax  Court 


22 

House  and  a  grand  "Secesh"  tournament  was  largely  advertised 
by  Captain  Jackson.  Seats  were  arranged  to  accommodate  sev- 
eral hundred  persons,  a  band  of  music  was  secured  and  extra 
trains  were  run  from  Alexandria.  Crowds  of  people  came  from  all 
the  surrounding  country  to  see  the  sixty  cavaliers  ride  for  the 
"ring"  and  the  "fair  one"  they  hoped  to  crown.  Many  drove  their 
four-in-hand  teams,  others  had  their  negroes  in  livery,  and  with 
their  splendid,  even  gorgeous,  equipages  and  fair  ladies  in  elegant 
attire  made  a  brilliant  and  imposing  pageant.  Not  a  few  of  the 
"first  families"  rode  on  their  thoroughbreds,  with  their  grooms 
and  valets  in  attendance ;  country  carts  of  the  poorer  people,  filled 
with  their  motley  occupants,  and  numerous  pedestrians  plodding 
along  the  dusty  roads,  all  formed  a  scene  which  in  its  thronging 
intensity  and  noisy  ensemble  might  well  be  likened  to  the  great 
"Derby  Day"  in  old  England. 

As,  perhaps,  a  few  readers  may  not  understand  how  these  tour- 
naments were  conducted,  a  description  may  be  of  interest.  These 
happy  days  of  the  Virginia  youth  have  passed  into  history  with  the 
olden  days  of  chivalry,  but  many  a  Southerner  who  reads  these 
lines  will  go  back  in  memory  and  for  a  brief  hour  live  over  the 
days  of  "Auld  Lang  Syne." 

A  post  fifteen  or  twenty  feet  long  is  firmly  planted,  and  a  bar 
from 'four  to  six  feet  long  fastened  securely  on  top,  to  which  a 
piece  of  wire  is  attached  to  connect  the  "ring."  Each  of  the  con- 
testants is  named  and  known,  for  instance,  as  the  "Knight  of  the 
Ring,"  "Knight  of  Fairfax,"  "Knight  of  Washington,"  as  the  case 
might  be.  As  the  name  of  each  knight  is  announced  he  starts 
from  a  point  about  300  yards  from  the  "ring,"  rides  at  a  walk 
for  a  distance  of  ten  yards,  trots  twenty  yards,  gallops  forty,  runs 
sixty,  then  aims  his  lance,  which  is  from  seven  to  nine  feet  long, 
and  charges  it.  If  he  is  the  only  one  who  takes  the  ring  three 
times  in  succesion  he  is  entitled  to  crown  the  "Queen  of  Love  and 
Beauty,"  and  has  the  privilege  of  going  among  the  spectators  and 
choosing  the  prettiest  girl  by  pointing  his  spear  or  lance  at  the 
one  he  selects.  If  he  is  not  known  to  her  personally  he  is  escorted 
to  her  carriage  or  to  the  hotel  by  a  mutual  friend  and  properly 
introduced.  If  more  than  one  knight  takes  the  ring  three  times 


23 

in  succession  they  ride  in  competition  until  it  is  settled  who 
among  them  is  the  best  man.  There  are  generally  seven  maids  of 
honor  and  one  Queen.  The  first  knight  crowns  the  Queen,  the 
next  the  first  maid  of  honor,  and  so  on  throughout.  The  crown- 
ing takes  place  in  the  ballroom,  on  a  stage  or  platform,  where  the 
Ou.een  sits  in  the  center  with  the  maids  of  honor  on  either  side, 
gay  flowers  and  garland  vines  artistically  blending  into  a  bower 
of  exquisite  color  and  beauty.  After  an  address  appropriate  to  the 


The  Jackson  Tournament. 

occasion  delivered  by  some  prominent  person,  the  ceremony  of 
crowning  the  Queen  and  maids  ensues ;  then  sets  are  formed,  and 
the  music  of  the  darkey  band  echoes  sonorously  through  the  hall, 
and  dancing  commences ;  and  usually  it  is  not  until  sunrise  next 
morning  that  the  foot-patting  melodies  cease  and  Terpischore 
closes  her  revel. 

Returning  to  the  tournament  in  question,  after  the  heralds  had 
secured  the  title  of  each  knight  who  was  to  ride,  sixty  of  the  finest 


24 

young  horsemen  in  the  State,  the  "chivalry"  of  Virginia,  formed  in 
line  and  stood  to  horse  to  await  their  turn  to  start  for  the  "ring." 

The  writer  rode  as  the  "Knight  of  the  Planet,"  and  just  before 
his  name  was  called  had  his  groom  remove  the  saddle  and  mounted 
his  Bell-Founder  colt  bareback.  When  he  was  called  the  bridle 
was  pulled  off  and  the  colt  jumped  forward  like  a  cat.  Being 
guided  by  my  lance,  she  dashed  like  lightning  through  the  course 
three  times,  her  rider  each  time  taking  a  ring  off  the  hook,  and 
then  dropping  the  lance,  reached  forward  to  the  colt's  mouth, 
riding  on  her  neck  to  the  starting  point,  where  the  bridle  was  re- 
placed. This  was  considered  one  of  the  most  extraordinary  feats 
of  the  kind  ever  known  to  have  taken  place  on  such  an  occasion. 
It  created  great  excitement,  and  the  air  rang  with  cheers  from 
many  hundreds  who  had  watched  in  breathless  expectation  that 
the  rider  would  be  killed. 

When  the  tilting  equestrian  exercises  were  concluded  the  con- 
testing "chevaliers"  were  brought  up  in  line  before  Col.  William 
Dulaney,  the  orator  of  the  day,  who  delivered  an  address,  an- 
nouncing that  George  A.  Armes  of  Annandale,  the  "Knight  of 
the  Planet,"  was  the  triumphant  victor  and  entitled  to  crown  the 
Queen  of  Love  and  Beauty.  Then  for  a  few  moments  saturnalia 
reigned,  hats  were  thrown  into  the  air,  handkerchiefs  and  parasols 
were  waved,  cheer  after  cheer  rent  the  air  and  the  shrill  fanfare  of 
trumpets  from  the  "small  boy"  deafened  the  ear.  When  the  tur- 
moil had  in  a  measure  subsided  the  youthful  hero  was  directed  to 
select  the  Queen,  but  in  his  diffidence  it  was  impossible  for  him  to 
muster  up  the  requisite  courage  to  undertake  the  honor,  and  he 
therefore  deputed  his  rights  to  one  of  his  comrades,  a  Mr.  Philip 
Goodwin,  who  selected  and  crowned  Miss  Nannie  Thomas  of 
Fairfax  Court  House,  daughter  of  Gov.  Henry  W.  Thomas,  who 
made  a  charming  and  beautiful  Queen. 

At  eight  o'clock  that  evening  the  grand  ball  at  the  "Union 
Hotel"  opened,  and  not  until  the  rays  of  the  morning  sun  shone 
into  the  hall  of  merriment  did  the  festivities  close. 

This  was  the  most  successful  and  grandest  affair  ever  given  at 
Fairfax  either  before  or  since  the  war.  It  was  not  long  after  this 
that,  with  the  exception  of  the  writer,  every  young  man  of  this 


25 

party  of  sixty  was  engaged  in  active  service  against  the  Union,  and 
their  leader,  Capt.  James  W.  Jackson,  was  the  first  to  give  his  life 
in  a  cause  which  he  believed  required  him  to  make  any  sacrifice 
necessary  for  the  honor  of  his  flag. 

Soon  after  this  tournament  the  "boys"  were  called  together,  and 
their  captain,  Mott  Delaney  Ball,  delivered  an  address  on  "State 
Rights."  In  1860  Robert  E.  Lee  had  held  that  his  primary  alle- 
giance was  due  to  the  State,  and  if  such  duties  conflicted  with  the 
law  and  interests  of  the  national  sovereignty  the  State  should 
assert  its  independence  in  the  face  of  the  disruption  and  disin- 
tegration of  the  organized  whole ;  in  other  words,  the  standpoint 
of  patriotism  was  limited  to  the  narrow  confines  and  local  interest 
of  a  State's  boundary.  At  the  close  of  Captain  Ball's  address  he 
announced  his  desire  that  all  should  enroll  themselves  in  the  Con- 
federate service. 

I  declined  to  accept  the  gray  equipment,  shook  hands  with  my 
comrades,  and  in  spite  of  the  most  earnest  entreaties  to  remain 
with  them  and  stand  by  my  State,  bade  them  good-bye,  stating 
that,  in  my  opinion,  patriotic  loyalty  to  one's  country  was  superior 
to  sectional  sentiment ;  that  I  had  decided  to  uphold  national  unity 
and  to  devote  all  my  energies,  at  whatever  sacrifice  to  the  support 
of  the  Union  which  had  been  established  by  the  blood  of  our  fore- 
fathers. Although  a  boy,  I  had  been  a  passionate  reader  of  history, 
especially  books  relating  to  the  colonization  of  America  and  the 
struggle  for  independence,  and  had  become  deeply  interested  in 
the  fearless  efforts  and  impressive  sufferings  of  the  founders  of  the 
nation.  The  narratives  of  the-  Revolutionary  epoch  had  left  a 
vivid  imprint  upon  my  heart,  and  the  principles  of  patriotism  were 
firmly  imbedded  in  my  mind. 

I  believed  that  the  throes  of  tribulation  which  had  given  birth 
to  a  new  republic  on  the  shores  of  this  Western  continent  should 
not  have  been  in  vain,  the  new  creation  to  be  again  merged  in  dis- 
solution, but  that  it  should  remain  intact,  "one  and  indivisible," 
and  with  the  increasing  strength  of  maturity  and  close  interests 
and  reciprocal  obligations,  develop  into  one  of  the  most  powerful 
governments  on  earth.  The  blood  of  the  Pilgrim  Fathers  was  in 
my  veins,  and  the  voice  of  the  Continental  Congress  and  of 


26 

Faneuil  Hall  was  now  echoing  from  the  soil  of  a  Southern  State, 
the  State  of  Washington  and  of  Jefferson,  in  protest  of  the  agoniz- 
ing principle  of  disunion. 

Upon  my  arrival  home  that  evening  I  informed  my  mother  and 
younger  brother  of  the  stand  I  had  taken.  My  brother  flew  into  a 
rage,  denounced  me  as  a  traitor  to  the  State,  and  said  he  for  one 
would  do  his  part  in  repelling  any  attempted  invasion  of  the  State. 
Our  father  was  in  New  York  at  this  time,  also  my  other  brother, 
who  was  attending  school  in  that  city.  Mother  tried  to  reason 
with  me,  but  without  avail.  She  then  said  that  it  would  be  impos- 
sible for  me  to  remain  at  home,  and  that  I  would  have  to  make  my 
own  way  in  the  future.  I  at  once  resolved  to  leave  "Hope  Castle," 
with  all  its  pleasures  and  luxuries,  to  give  up  family  and  all  its 
beloved  surroundings,  for  the  sake  of  patriotism,  which  imbued 
my  entire  nature.  Making  a  few  meager  preparations,  I  started 
for  Washington  city,  arriving  there  with  merely  a  change  of  cloth- 
ing and  four  dollars  in  my  pocket. 

As  all  my  friends  in  that  city  were  sympathizers  with  the  South, 
I  determined  not  to  make  my  presence  known  to  any  of  them ;  so 
I  repaired  to  a  hotel,  where  I  very  soon  found,  to  my  sorrow,  my 
four  dollars  reduced  to  the  small  sum  of  twenty  cents.  After  much 
consideration  I  finally  decided  to  invest  my  remaining  twenty 
cents  in  newspapers.  In  all  exciting  times  the  newsboys'  cry 
strikes  the  chord  of  every  heart,  and  with  the  palpitating  fear  and 
hope  of  him  who  seeks  the  weird  fortune-teller,  the  anxious  and 
waiting  multitudes  cross  the  hands  of  the  gypsy  news  vendor  with 
the  silver  bit  as  he  receives  the  Sibylline  leaves  from  the  unkempt 
fingers.  Repairing  to  the  office  of  The  Evening  Star,  then,  as 
now,  a  standard  journal,  I  invested  to  the  extent  of  my  small 
funds,  and  the  first  day  of  this  mercantile  venture  I  found  that  I 
had  mad£  a  profit  of  sixty  cents.  But  I  readily  saw  the  unsuitable- 
ness  of  this  vagrant  business  for  one  who  had  been  reared  amid  the 
surroundings  of  a  luxurious  Virginia  home,  and  contact  with  the 
rough  and  uncouth  Arabs  of  the  streets  was  repugnant  to  my 
proud  spirit.  I  therefore  endeavored  to  devise  other  means  of 
support. 


27 

Having  read  a  great  deal  of  Hon.  William  H.  Seward,  at  that 
time  Secretary  of  State,  I  mentally  discussed  the  advisability  of 
calling  upon  him  and  asking  his  assistance.  Not  being  able  to  see 
him  at  his  office,  I  waited  on  the  steps  of  the  "Kirkwood  House," 
then  located  on  the  corner  of  Twelfth  street  and  Pennsylvania 
avenue,  one  afternoon,  until  I  saw  him  pass.  I  knew  him  only  by 
the  pictures  I  had  seen  of  him,  but  walking  up  to  him  whilst  he 
was  engaged  in  conversation  with  another  gentleman,  I  asked, 
"Is  not  this  Mr.  Seward?"  I  received  an  affable  reply  in  the 
affirmative.  The  Secretary  kindly  requested  me  to  come  to  his 
house,  saying  that  he  would  then  listen  to  me.  I  accordingly 
acompanied  him  to  his  home,  there  gave  him  my  history  and  told 
him  I  desired  a  place  as  messenger  in  the  State  Department.  Mr. 
Seward  then  reminded  me  that  while  I  was  an  utter  stranger  the 
stand  I  had  taken  was  highly  commendable  and  deserved  en- 
couragement, and  that  if  I  could  assure  him  of  the  facts  as  stated 
by  me  he  would  do  something  for  me.  He  told  me  to  return 
home  and  secure  a  line  from  some  one  whom  he  knew  who  could 
vouch  for  me,  and  also  to  report  to  him  the  condition  of  affairs  in 
that  section. 

I  therefore  returned  at  once  to  Fairfax  Court  House  and  re- 
quested Gov.  H.  W.  Thomas  to  give  me  a  letter  of  endorsement 
that  would  be  of  service  to  me  among  strangers,  informing  him 
that  I  intended  remaining  out  of  the  State  until  the  existing 
troubles  were  settled.  Governor  Thomas  expressed  his  sorrow 
at  this  decision,  and  regretted  that  he  could  advance  no  argument 
to  alter  it ;  then  writing  the  following,  requested  the  several  gen- 
tlemen present  to  sign  it,  which  they  all  readily  did. 

This  being  the  first  recommendation  I  had  ever  received,  I  nat- 
urally felt  proud  of  it,  and  hastened  to  my  home  in  quite  jubilant 
spirits,  only  to  meet  with  rebuff.  My  mother  and  brother,  still 
further  incensed  at  my  insistent  determination  to  renounce  my 
home  and  all  associations  for  what  I  believed  to  be  a  patriotic  duty, 
again  strongly  endeavored  to  dissuade  me  from  this  purpose,  but 
their  attempts  were  fruitless. 


28 


Office  of 

Henry  W.  Thomas, 

Attorney  at  Law, 

Fairfax  Court  House, 

Fairfax  County, 

Virginia. 


March  10,  1861. 


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XX^~   ^v    ^a- 


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r  t^-~^ 

r^^tp7"^    ^Ik 


^^^ 


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«-**6 


While  passing  through  Alexandria  on  my  way  to  Fairfax  Court 
House,  I  had  learned  from  the  best  of  authority  that  plans  were 
being  perfected  to  capture  the  Arsenal  and  get  possession  of  the 
capital.  I  purposed  to  circumvent  this  design,  but  being  aware 
that  all  avenues  of  entrance  to  the  city  were  watched,  and  that  on 
my  return  I  was  liable  to  be  taken  into  custody,  my  pronounced 
views  being  well  known,  I  resolved  upon  a  plausible  excuse  should 
I  be  questioned.  Calling  my  colored  boy,  I  ordered  him  to 
put  into  the  market-wagon  some  butter  and  eggs,  and  drive  me 
to  the  city  that  evening.  Nothing  of  any  moment  occurred  until 
we  reached  the  Long  Bridge,  crossing  the  Potomac,  about  eleven 


Arrest  No.  1,  by  Confederates. 


31 

o'clock  that  night,  when  we  were  arrested  (Arrest  No.  i)  by  one 
of  my  former  associates,  who  was  on  guard  at  that  place.  Telling 
him  that  our  family  needed  groceries  and  that  the  boy  had  some 
marketing  to  dispose  of  and  that  he  would  return  the  next  day, 
we  were  allowed  to  pass  over  the  bridge,  and  proceeded  on  our 
way  without  further  molestation.  After  having  the  horses  put  up 
at  Burch's  livery  stable  on  Fourteenth  street,  I  gave  the  boy  direc- 
tions to  go  to  the  market  at  sunrise,  sell  what  he  had,  buy  the 
groceries  and  return  home. 


Oassius  M,  Clay's  First  Prisoner. 

I  then  started  for  Mr.  Seward's  house,  although  it  was  one 
o'clock  at  night.  When  I  reached  the  corner  of  Fourteenth  street 
and  Pennsylvania  avenue,  in  front  of  Willard's  hotel,  I  was  halted 
by  a  sentry,  but  refused  to  obey  until  I  heard  the  click  of  his  gun 
and  the  threat  that  he  would  shoot  if  I  took  another  step.  I  was 
soon  surrounded  by  six  or  eight  men,  with  their  guns,  and  all  de- 


32 

manded  of  me  the  reason  for  being  on  the  street  at  that  hour  of 
the  night.  1  told  them  that  I  was  on  my  way  to  Secretary  Seward's 
house,  and  had  something  of  importance  to  communicate  to  him. 
At  this  two  men  grasped  hold  of  me,  and  1  was  put  under  arrest 
and  roughly  marched  to  the  rear  of  Willard's  Hotel  and  into  the 
hall,  where  there  were  about  one  hundred  more  men  drilling. 
This  was  the  second  of  the  many  arrests  to  which  I  was  destined 
to  be  subjected  during  my  career.  (Arrest  No.  2.) 

I  was  then  taken  into  a  side  room  and  Gen.  Cassius  M.  Clay 
summoned,  who  requested  me  to  give  my  reasons  for  wishing  to 
see  Mr.  Seward  at  this  unwarrantable  hour.  <lNo  one  but  Mr. 
Seward  shall  know  my  business,"  I  replied. 

I  was  then  roughly  searched  and  the  recommendation  given  me 
by  Mr.  Thomas  taken  from  me.  They  then  crowded  about  me, 
a  noisy  and  excited  mob,  threatening  to  hang  me  if  I  did  not  dis- 
close my  reason  for  wishing  to  see  Mr.  Seward.  Some  of  them 
fixed  their  bayonets  and  swore  they  would  run  me  through,  but  I 
remained  firm,  and  refused  to  say  anything  except  to  Mr.  Seward. 
Finding  that  I  could  not  be  moved  from  my  determination,  Gen- 
eral Clay  and  some  others  had  a  conference  and  decided  to  take 
me  to  the  United  States  Marshal,  Col.  Ward  H.  Lamon.  I  was 
therefore  marched  up  to  his  room.  We  found  him  in  bed,  but  he 
at  once  arose,  dressed  himself  and  questioned  me  closely.  I  told 
him  that  I  had  nothing  to  say  except  to  Mr.  Seward,  so  they  de- 
cided to  march  me  to  the  Secretary's  house,  which  was  done. 
Leaving  me  in  charge  of  the  guard,  Colonel  Lamon  entered  and 
aroused  Mr.  Seward,  who  immediately  sent  word  that  he  would 
see  me. 

The  guard  appeared  very  much  surprised  that  I  should  be  ad- 
mitted to  the  Secretary's  presence  at  that  hour  of  the  night.  Col. 
Ward  H.  Lamon  accompanied  me  to  Mr.  Seward's  room  and  then 
retired,  leaving  me  alone  with  the  mature  man  of  state.  I  in- 
formed him  that  I  had  just  returned  from  Virginia,  and  while  there 
had  learned  through  credible  sources  that  an  attempt  would  be 
made  that  night  or  the  next  to  capture  the  Arsenal  or  Treasury 
by  an  organized  force  consisting  of  Southern  infantry,  cavalry  and 
artillery ;  that  most  of  the  troops  were  in  Alexandria  or  near  the 


33 

Long  Bridge  and  Chain  Bridge,  and  that  boats  were  in  readiness 
for  use  at  any  moment. 

The  Secretary  quickly  summoned  Marshal  Lamon  and  told  him 
to  make  haste  and  see  Gen.  Winfieid  Scott  and  to  have  every  able- 
bodied  man  in  the  city  armed  at  once  and  sent  to  the  river  front. 
Mr.  Seward  then  thanked  me  heartily  and  ordered  a  room  for  me 
at  Willard's  Hotel,  which  I  reached  between  two  and  three  o'clock 
in  the  morning,  and  I  immediately  retired.  But,  weary  as  I  was,  I 
could  not  sleep,  for  the  streets  resounded  with  the  tread  of  march- 
ing feet,  the  clashing  hoof  of  dashing  cavalry  and  the  mighty  rush 
of  hurrying  artillery.  The  wings  of  the  god  of  war  hovered  over 
the  nation's  capital  and  the  voice  of  impending  conflict  echoed  from 
every  quarter  of  the  city. 

First  Lieut.  Amos  Beckwith  of  the  First  United  States  Artil- 
lery has  since  told  me  that  a  message  was  brought  to  him  in  the 
early  morning  hours  to  proceed  with  his  battery  to  the  Long 
Bridge  at  once,  whereupon  he  sprang  out  of  bed  as  though  the 
house  were  on  fire  and  ran  to  the  stables  situated  near  where  the 
War  Department  now  is,  and  in  less  than  half  an  hour  was  at  the 
Long  Bridge  with  his  battery.  An  accident  to  a  train  loaded  with 
troops  from  Richmond  caused  a  delay  in  carrying  out  the  plans  of 
the  enemy  as  early  in  the  night  as  was  intended,  and  the  appear- 
ance of  the  United  States  military  in  such  large  force  prevented 
any  further  attempt  to  capture  the  city  that  night. 

Immediately  after  breakfast  I  called  at  the  hotel  office  to  pay 
my  bill,  but  was  informed  that  it  was  already  settled.  At  the  same 
time  a  message  was  handed  me  from  Secretary  Seward  requesting 
me  to  call  at  his  office  at  eleven  o'clock  that  morning.  When  I 
appeared  before  him  the  Secretary  took  me  by  the  hand  and  said : 

"Young  man,  your  patriotism  to  the  Union  cause  deserves  en- 
couragement, and  you  may  report  to  me  for  duty  tomorrow  morn- 
ing, as  messenger  in  this  Department." 

I  thanked  him,  and  was  directed  to  go  with  a  young  man  whom 
he  had  summoned  to  another  room,  where  I  received  my  appoint- 
ment, at  a  salary  of  $50  per  month. 


34 

Nine  o'clock  the  next  morning  found  me  at  Secretary  Seward's 
office,  and  at  ten  o'clock  I  was  handed  a  message  to  deliver  to 
President  Lincoln,  which  was  the  first  duty  I  performed  in  my 
new  office. 

Thenceforward  I  found  myself,  in  the  performance  of  my  duties, 
frequently  vibrating  between  the  Department  of  State  and  the 
White  House,  and  I  was  thus  brought  into  close  contact  with 
President  Lincoln  and  the  many  public  and  eminent  men  of  that 
most  eventful  period.  My  employment  was  very  agreeable  and 
interesting,  and  I  soon  became  a  general  favorite. 

In  the  letter  of  recommendation  given  me  by  Governor  Thomas 
the  name  of  "James  W.  Jackson,  secessionist,"  had  attracted  the 
attention  of  Mr.  Seward,  and  one  day,  while  conversing  with  the 
the  President,  he  asked  me  if  I  had  the  letter  with  me.  I  replied 
that  I  did  not,  but  would  bring  it  to  him  later,  which  I  did.  It  was 
by  him  exhibited  to  the  President,  who  was  very  much  amused, 
and  showed  it  to  others  present,  little  thinking  that  the  most 
peculiar  signer  of  that  paper  would  be  the  man  to  kill  our  then 
most  distinguished  Colonel  (Ellsworth),  paying  for  the  deed  the 
immediate  penalty  of  his  own  life,  as  will  be  explained  in  more  de- 
tail further  on,  but  such  was  the  fact.  On  still  another  day,  at  a 
Cabinet  meeting,  Mr.  Lincoln  and  his  Cabinet  obtained  the  letter 
again,  and  became  very  much  interested  over  it,  laughing,  talking 
and  commenting  upon  the  addition  of  secessionist  to  the  signature 
of  James  W.  Jackson. 

My  duties  at  the  State  Department  generally  ended  between 
three  and  four  o'clock  P.  M.  After  that  time  I  was  at  liberty  to 
go  wherever  I  pleased,  and  took  advantage  of  this  spare  time  in 
watching  and  studying  the  military  operations  wherever  possible. 
Troops  were  coming  into  the  city  by  thousands.  I  went  to  the 
camp  of  each  regiment,  learning  the  name  of  every  Colonel,  and 
soon  ascertained  that  preparations  were  being  made  to  cross  the 
river  and  camp  on  the  Virginia  side,  which,  from  my  knowledge  of 
the  boys  on  guard  on  the  other  side  of  the  Potomac,  I  thought 
would  be  a  verv  difficult  thing  to  do.  When  the  time  was  fixed 
to  move  I  asked  Mr.  Seward  for  a  note  of  introduction  to  the 
Commanding  General  soliciting  his  permission  to  go  over  with 


35 

the  troops,  and  a  three  days'  leave  of  absence  was  granted  me. 
On  my  reporting  to  the  General  and  showing  him  the  note  he  said 
he  would  be  pleased  to  allow  me  to  accompany  him,  and  then  in- 
troduced me  to  Col.  O.  B.  Willcox,  commanding  the  First  Mich- 
igan Volunteer  Infantry,  now  Brigadier-General,  U.  S.  A.,  re- 
tired ;  to  Gen.  Daniel  Butterfield,  commanding  the  Twelfth  New 
York  Infantry,  and  to  several  others. 

By  the  28th  of  April,  1861,  there  were  10,000  troops  ready  for 
duty,  and  the  Military  Department  of  Washington  was  founded, 
Gen.  Joseph  K.  Mansfield,  U.  S.  A.,  assuming  command.  Only 
two  days  before  Gen.  Winfield  Scott  was  so  alarmed  that  he  issued 
an  order  from  headquarters  of  the  Army  stating  in  substance  that 
"from  the  known  assemblage  near  this  city  of  numerous  hostile 
bodies  of  troops  it  is  evident  that  an  attack  upon  it  may  be  ex- 
pected any  moment,"  and  proceeding  to  detail  measures  and  posts 
of  officers  to  be  taken  for  "the  defense  of  the  Gevernment,  the 
peaceful  inhabitants  of  the  city,  the  public  buildings  and  archives." 

The  danger  increased  on  all  sides  of  the  city  of  Washington 
faster  than  Union  troops  could  be  mustered  in,  until  May  13,  1861, 
when  Gen.  B.  F.  Butler,  with  the  Sixth  Massachusetts  and  some 
other  troops,  seized  Baltimore,  fortified  Federal  Hill,  and  the  city 
was  coralled.  Gen.  Robert  E.  Lee  was  placed  in  command  of  the 
Confederate  forces  immediately  after  he  had  resigned  from  the 
United  States  Army,  and  adopted  a  defensive  policy,  having  thor- 
ough military  discipline  in  his  command. 

On  May  5,  1861,  Lieut.-Col.  A.  S.  Taylor  (Confederate)  was  in 
command  at  Alexandria,  Va.,  and  from  reports  made  to  him  about 
a  large  force  of  Union  troops  being  on  their  way  to  capture  the 
city,  he  ordered  his  command  to  fall  back,  taking  with  him  two 
companies  of  Virginia  cavalry  commanded  by  Captains  Powell 
and  Bonham.  General  Lee  did  not  place  him  under  arrest,  but 
had  him  ordered  back  through  General  Cocke,  and  on  May  10 
Col.  G.  H.  Terrett  was  assigned  to  the  command  of  Alexandria 
and  all  troops  from  Fairfax,  Loudoun,  Prince  William  and  Fau- 
quier  counties,  Va.  May  21  Gen.  W.  L.  Bonham  of  the  Confed- 
erate Army,  was  placed  in  command  of  all  the  forces  in  Alexan- 
dria and  as  far  as  Manassas  Junction,  where  he  was  ordered  to  post 


his  South  Carolina  brigade.  Colonel  Terrett's  command  in  Alex- 
andria and  General  Cocke's  at  Culpeper  Court  House  were  in- 
cluded in  General  Bonham's  department.  Thus  matters  stood  on 
the  Virginia  side  of  the  Potomac. 

On  May  23,  1861,  General  Mansfield  was  ordered  to  advance 
into  Virginia.  The  command  moved  in  three  columns,  each  by  a 
separate  route,  namely,  by  the  Aqueduct,  by  the  Long  Bridge  and 
by  steamer  down  the  Potomac.  The  Aqueduct,  an  adjunct  of  the 
Chesapeake  &  Ohio  Canal,  was  recognized  as  an  important  mili- 
tary point,  and  was  subsequently  converted  into  a  bridge  by  shut- 
ting off  the  water  and  flooring  it.  General  Heintzleman,  then  a 
Colonel  on  General  Mansfield's  staff,  superintended  the  crossing 
of  the  Long  Bridge  with  the  First  Michigan  Infantry,  Col.  O.  B. 
Wilcox  commanding  the  regiment.  General  Stoneman,  with  the 
First  Cavalry ;  a  section  of  the  Fourth  Artillery,  commanded  by 
Lieutenant  Dresser,  and  the  Twelfth  New  York,  Col.  Daniel  But- 
terfield  comminding,  accompanied  General  Willcox,  who  led  the 
way. 

The  writer  was  with  the  first-mentioned  command,  riding  his 
own  horse,  which  had  been  purchased  with  the  first  money  earned 
by  him  in  the  State  Department.  Pie  was  overjoyed  by  again 
having  a  mount,  for  he  had  felt  lost  without  one,  never  havin  T 
been  without  a  horse  for  one  week  from  the  time  he  was  four  years 
of  age  until  landing  in  Washington  and  there  left  "a-foot." 

Colonel -Ellsworth,  with  the  Fire  Zouaves — i.  e.,  the  Eleventh 
New  York,  went  down  on  the  steamers  Baltimore  and  Mount 
Vernon.  The  orders  to  Colonels  Ellsworth  and  Wilcox  were  to 
the  effect  that  they  should  act  in  concert  near  Half- Way  Creek 
at  early  daybreak  the  next  morning,  and  so  march  on  Alexan- 
dria simultaneously — Ellsworth  by  the  river  and  Wilcox  by  the 
Washington  pike.  They  were  to  cut  off  telegraph  communication 
with  the  interior,  attack  whatever  forces  should  oppose  them,  take 
military  possession  of  the  towns  and  tear  up  the  track  of  the 
Orange  &  Alexandria  Railroad  as  far  out  from  the  depot  as  pos- 
sible. That  depot  had  been  seized  by  order  of  General  Scott  April 
19,  1861, 


57 

General  Mansfield  marched  to  the  Long  Bridge  with  us,  where 
he  halted  until  eleven  o'clock.  Senator  Zack  Chandler  of  Mich- 
igan acompanied  General  Wilcox  as  a  volunteer  aid.  Capt.  Sam 
Owens  of  the  Washington  City  Cavalry  went  with  them  as  a 
guide.  Capt.  J.  A.  Smeade,  Second  Artillery,  crossed  the  bridge, 
leading  the  advance  guard.  This  force  consisted  of  one  battalion 
of  District  Volunteers,  the  Twenty-fifth  and  Seventh  New  York, 
the  Third  New  Jersey,  one  troop  of  the  Fifth  Cavalry  and  a  bat- 
tery of  Artillery.  After  crossing  the  bridge  with  General  Wil- 
cox's  command  they  wheeled  to  the  right  towards  Arlington 
Heights,  under  command  of  General  Heintzleman,  the  Seventh 
New  York  going  into  camp  on  the  hill,  where  they  afterwards 
built  Fort  Runyon. 


Captain  Ball's  Surrender  at  the  Slave  Pen. 

After  reaching  Half- Way  Run  near  Alexandria  I  requested 
General  Wilcox  to  allow  me  to  take  fifty  men  and  with  them  ad- 
vance into  the  city  to  capture  Captain  Ball  and  his  company  of 


38 

cavalry,  who  were  then  quartered  in  a  slave  pen  on  Duke  street 
near  the  depot.  The  General  ordered  Captain  Butterworth  to 
report  to  me  with  one  hundred  men.  We  then  marched  ahead  of 
the  command,  slipped  around  by  the  depot,  and  were  just  coming 
to  the  slave  pen  when  General  Wilcox  marched  up  another  street 
and  demanded  the  surrender  of  Captain  Ball  and  thirty-five  of  his 
men,  who  had  been  suddenly  awakened,  and  were  in  the  act  of 
mounting  their  horses.  In  the  meantime  Willcox  had  destroyed 
the  first  bridge  and  torn  up  the  Orange  &  Alexandria  Railroad, 
thus  preventing  the  transfer  of  stores,  which  had  been  hastily 
loaded  on  cars  for  shipment  south,  and  saving  for  our  Gevernment 
a  large  amount  of  supplies,  which  proved  very  useful  to  our  Army. 

When  Lieutenant  Dresser,  U.  S.  A.,  who  was  in  command  of 
the  artillery,  unlimbered  and  loaded  a  twelve-pounder  and  sighted 
it  at  the  little  bunch  of  cavalry,  they  saw 'at  a  glance  there  was  no 
chance  of  escape.  Everyone  seemed  paralyzed,  and  no  one  came 
forward  or  raised  a  hand.  Some  were  mounted,  some  with  a  foot 
in  the  stirrup  and  some  standing  at  their  horses'  heads.  All  sat 
or  stood  as  motionless  as  statues  until  Colonel  Willcox  rode  for- 
ward and  demanded  their  surrender,  wThen  Captain  Ball  drew  his 
sword  and  handed  it  to  the  Colonel,  who  said  :  "You  can  keep 
your  sword,  sir;  but  who  are  you,  and  what  is  your  command?" 
"Captain  Ball  and  company  of  Virginia  cavalry,  sir,"  was  his 
reply. 

The  prisoners  were  ordered  into  the  slave  pen,  under  a  guard 
from  the  First  Michigan  Infantry.  The  regiment  then  went  for- 
ward to  the  depot  of  the  Orange  &  Alexandria  Railroad. 

It  was  just  sunrise  when  Captain  Ball  surrendered,  and  he 
claimed  that  he  should  have  until  9  A.  M.  to  evacuate  the  city. 
This  point  was  referred  to  Washington,  and  the  following  dis- 
patch forwarded : 

Alexandria,  Va.,  May  24,  1861 — 5.30  A.  M. 
"Alexandria  is  ours.     One  company  (Captain  Ball),  mounted, 
thirty-five  men  and  thirty-five  horses,  captured.     I  regret  to  say 
that  Colonel  Ellsworth  has  been  shot  by  a  person  in  a  house. 

Yours, 

(Signed)         O.  B.  WILCOX, 

Colonel.". 


39 
Already  the  following  had  gone  forward : 

May  24,  1861—5.18  A.  M. 
To  General  Mansfield, 

Alexandria,  Va. : 

Sir — Tt  is  my  painful  duty  to  inform  you  that  Colonel  Ellsworth, 
commanding  officer  of  the  First  Fire  Zouave  Regiment,  New 
York  Militia,  is  no  more.  He  was  assassinated  at  the  Marshall 
House  after  our  troops  had  taken  the  city.  I  am  ignorant  of  the 
details  of  the  order  issued  to  the  regiment.  I  await  further  in- 
structions. My  men  are  posted  advantageously  in  the  streets. 
(Signed)  NOAH  L.  FARNHAM, 

Commanding  First  Zouaves, 

The  news  of  Colonel  Ellsworth's  death  was  brought  to  Colonel 
Willcox  by  the  Captain  commanding  the  Zouave  company.  Great 
excitement  prevailed,  and  matters  looked  serious  for  awhile.  He 
then  began  tearing  up  the  railroad  track.  He  had  burned  the 
first  two  bridges  near  the  city,  when  it  was  discovered  that  the 
enemy  were  retreating  up  the  railroad  and  burning  bridges  also. 
After  exchanging  a  few  shots,  Colonel  Wilcox  halted  his  men  and 
put  out  pickets. 

Captain  Ball  and  his  dragoons  were  placed  under  guard  on  a 
steamboat,  which  was  anchored  out  in  the  river  near  the  Navy- 
Yard,  where  their  friends  were  allowed  to  visit  them.  I  called  the 
next  day  and  found  that  there  was  nothing  I  could  do  to  add  to 
their  comfort,  as  they  were  supplied  with  everything  they  could 
wish  for  and  every  attention  being  paid  them.  The  captain  and 
each  one  of  his  command  seemed  as  glad  to  see  me  as  if  I  had  not 
taken  part  in  their  capture,  which  they  all  joked  about,  as  if  they 
rather  enjoyed  it  than  otherwise.  Captain  Jackson,  who  had 
placed  the  flag  on  his  hotel  in  person,  had  remarked  after  doing 
so  that  the  first  man  \vho  attempted  to  take  it  down  would  have  to 
walk  over  his  dead  body  ;  that  he  would  be  prepared  to  shoot  any- 
one who  should  attempt  it.  Colonel  Ellsworth  landed  with  his 
regiment  at  the  foot  of  King  street  a  little  before  sunrise.  One 
shot  was  fired  by  the  enemy's  guard,  who  immediately  retreated. 


46 

The  following  account  of  the  untimely  and  tragic  death  of  Col- 
onel Ellsworth  was  furnished  the  writer  by  Col.  E.  M.  Coats, 
U.  S.  A.,  who  was  a  First  Lieutenant  in  Colonel  Ellsworth  regi- 
ment at  that  time: 

"Colonel  Ellsworth  passed  by  the  regiment  about  5.50  A.  M.  on 
his  way  to  the  telegraph  office  to  communicate  with  the  War  De- 
partment, and  when  passing  called  for  a  couple  of  men  to  place 
on  guard  over  the  office. 

His  route  to  the  telegraph  office  lay  past  the  Marshall  House, 
and,  being  on  the  opposite  side  of  the  street,  he  saw  the  flag  float- 
ing from  it.  With  the  remark,  "That  must  come  down,"  he  entered 
the  house,  mounted  to  the  roof,  hauled  down  the  flag,  and  was  on 
his  way  down  when  a  door  opened,  and  Jackson,  leveling  his 
double-barreled  gun  at  him,  fired,  the  charge  of  slugs  entering  his 
left  breast  and  tearing  his  body  to  pieces. 

Jackson  then  turned  on  Brownell,  who  had  hurriedly  retreated 
to  the  end  of  the  hall,  and  just'as  he  pulled  the  trigger  of  the  sec- 
ond barrel,  Brownell  fired,  and  the  bullet  from  his  rifle  struck  Jack- 
son just  below  the  eye.  The  shock  threw  up  Jackson's  gun,  and 
the  contents  entered  the  casing  of  the  bedroom  door,  just  high 
enough  to  clear  Brownell's  head.  Therefore  his  chance  shot  just 
saved  his  own  life.  Had  it  been  an  instant  later  he,  too,  must  have 
been  a  dead  man. 

The  body  of  Colonel  Ellsworth  was  placed  on  board  a  gunboat 
— the  Pawnee,  I  think — and  taken  to  ihe  Navy-Yard,  where  it 
was  prepared  for  burial,  and,  later,  placed  in  the  East  Room  at  the 
White  House.  After  the  furneral  services,  which  were  held  here, 
the  remains  were  taken  to  Mechanicsville,  N.  Y.,  the  home  of  his 
parents." 

The  death  of  Ellsworth  created  a  storm  of  indignation  all  over 
the  North  second  only  to  that  which  followed  the  firing  on  Fort 
Sumter.  In  Alexandria  the  feeling-  was  divided.  Most  of  the 
citizens  deplored  the  act  as  uncalled  for  and  in  violation  of  the 
rules  of  war. 

Now,  on  the  other  hand,  the  South  considered  that  Colonel 
Jackson  had  fallen  in  defence  of  his  flag,  and  in  the  eyes  of  his  fel- 
low-countrymen he,  too,  had  become  a  martyr,  his  body  being 
taken  to  Fairfax  Court  House,  Va.,  and  buried  with  all  the  honors 
possible. 


This  tragic  event  and  the  firing  upon  Fort  Sumter  stirred  up 
the  North  and  satisfied  that  section  that  coercion  was  necessary. 
It  also  fired  the  Southern  heart  and  swept  away  the  last  vestige  of 
''passive  resistance."  In  Alexandria,  then,  and  under  these  ap- 
parently minor  happenings  a  spark  was  blown  into  flame  which 
raged  for  four  long  years. 

Colonel  Willcox  soon  received  the  unconditional  surrender  of 
Alexandria  from  the  Mayor,  Hon.  Lewis  McKensie,  and  steps 
were  taken  to  insure  law  and  order.  A  military  police  force  was 
established,  pickets  thrown  out  and  a  proclamation,  headed 
"'Order  No.  2,"  was  issued,  printed  by  two  Michigan  soldiers  (Gal- 
loway and  McDonnell)  from  the  type  found  in  the  office  of  the 
Alexandria  Gazette,  which  had  been  abandoned  by  the  editor.  The 
Sentinel  newspaper  office  was  also  found  deserted,  and  its  last 
paper  ready  to  issue,  with  the  large  heading,  "We  are  able  to  meet 
our  foe,  eye  to  eye,  front  to  front,  column  to  column,  and  chase  them 
back  from  our  soil"  etc.,  etc. 

In  this  connection  the  following  letter  is  of  interest : 

Soldiers'  Home, 
Washington,  April  20,  1889. 

Dear  Major — In  reply  to  your  letter  of  the  igth  inst.,  received 
this  evening,  I  have  only  time  to  state  that  you  rendered  me  an 
efficient  assistance  as  guide  at  Alexandria,  Va.,  at  the  threshold 
of  the  war,  under  the  following  circumstances: 

My  regiment,  the  First  Michigan,  was  suddenly  ordered,  with 
a  detachment  of  artillery  and  Stoneman's  small  troop  of  cavalry, 
to  Alexandria,  in  conjunction  with  Ellsworth's  Fire  Zouaves.  I 
remember  you  brought  me  a  letter  of  commendation  from  Secre- 
tary Seward,  owing,  I  think,  to  some  previous  good  service  of 
yours  in  a  critical  period,  and  this  decided  me  to  take  you  along. 

While  Ellsworth  led  his  men  down  the  river  in  steamers  early 
in  the  morning,  I  marched  my  command  across  the  Long  Bridge, 
and  we  all  arrived  at  Alexandria  about  sunrise.  The  gallant  Ells- 
worth was  killed  at  once.  I  was  unacquainted  with  the  suburbs, 
and  entrusted  you  with  the  guidance  of  Captain  Butterworth's 
company  around  in  rear  of  the  town  to  the  railway  depot  tracks 
and  nearest  bridges,  which  I  had  been  specially  ordered  to 
break  up. 


You  piloted  Butterworth  right  to  the  spot,  and  by  this  means 
enabled  him  to  begin,  under  fire,  the  work  of  destruction,  and 
thereby  stop  the  shipping  of  rebel  troops  and  stores,  while  I  was 
engaged  in  securing  the  capture  of  the  town  and  Ball's  Cavalry, 
left  behind  to  guard  it  by  the  rebels  in  their  precipitate  flight. 

Your  part  in  this  little  affair,  which  at  the  time  was  considered 
as  one  of  the  first  bold  strokes  in  the  war,  had  its  due  weight,  and 
certainly,  considering  all  things,  it  was  a  loyal,  zealous  and  patri- 
otic, as  well  as  valuable  service. 

Your  obedient  servant, 

O.  B.  WlLLCOX, 

Brig.-Gen.,  U.  S.  A.,  Retired. 
BVT.  MAJ.  GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Washington,  D.  C. 

The  three  days'  leave  of  absence  granted  me  by  Mr.  Seward 
having  expired,  I  returned  to  the  Department.  The  war  fever 
daily  increased,  and  troops  by  the  thousand  began  camping 
in  and  around  Washington.  I  now  took  special  pains  to  get  the 
name  of  every  Colonel  and  the  location  of  his  regiment,  and  after 
4  P.  M.  would  make  occasional  visits  to  the  camps  with  Mr. 
Seward,  who  took  great  interest  in  walking  from  one  camp  to 
another  after  dinner  or  office  hours.  My  little  excursion  to  Alex- 
andria only  augmented  my  desire  to  take  further  part  in  the  de- 
fence of  my  country,  therefore  I  began  to  visit  the  camps  on  the 
Virginia  side  of  the  river,  and  obtained  passes,  of  which  the  fol- 
lowing are  samples. 

Drake  DeKay  was  known  throughout  the  Army  by  his  heroic 
signature. 

On  the  back  of  all  passes  the  following  oath  was  printed,  which 
every  person  had  to  sign  who  obtained  one  : 

It  is  understood  that  the  within-named  subscriber  accepts  this 
pass  on  his  word  of  honor  that  he  is  and  ever  will  be  loyal  to  the 
United  States,  and  if  hereafter  found  in  arms  against  the  Union, 
or  in  any  way  aiding  its  enemies,  the  penalty  will  be  death. 

All  approaches  to  the  Virginia  side  were  so  closely  guarded 
that  it  was  impossible  for  anyone  to  cross  the  river  without  a  pass. 


43 


TURK 


(fftuattcrs, 
Urpartmtnt 


TURN  OVER. 


Gen.  Irwin  McDowell  was  placed  in  command  of  the  troops  in 
Eastern  Virginia,  with  headquarters  in  Gen.  R.  E.  Lee's  mansion 
on  Arlington  Heights,  which  he  and  his  family  had  only  a  few 
days  before  vacated,  leaving  a  portion  of  their  furniture  with 
trusted  old  family  servants  in  the  house,  little  dreaming  that 
never  again  would  they  have  possession  of  it.  In  fact,  the  entire 
property  was  confiscated.  Afterwards  it  was  decided  by  the  Gov- 


44 

ernment  that  the  heirs  of  General  Lee  should  be  paid  for  the 
property,  but  it  is  retained  as  a  National  Cemetery.  Since  the  new 
bridge  was  completed  on  the  site  of  the  old  Aqueduct  large  num- 
bers of  visitors  drive  over  there  and  to  Fort  Myer  (formerly  Fort 
Whipple),  and  the  locality  is  no  doubt  familiar  to  thousands  now 
scattered  to  different  parts  of  the  world,  who  well  remember  old 
Fort  Whipple,  Arlington  Heights,  Minor's  Hill,  Upton's  Hill  and 
Bailey's  Cross  Roads,  where  so  many  of  the  Union  troops  were 
encamped  before  the  final  move  was  made  for  active  work. 

On  the  afternoon  of  May  30,  1861,  while  visiting  the  camps  on 
the  Virginia  side,  I  called  on  Lieut.  Charles  H.  Tompkins,  Second 
Cavalry,  afterwards  Assistant  Quartermaster-General,  U.  S.  A. 
(now  retired),  who  was  in  camp  near  Ball's  Cross  Roads.  After 
sugesting  that  they  make  a  little  scout,  and  assuring  Lieutenant 
Tompkins  that  I  would  lead  the  way,  knowing,  as  I  did,  nearly 
every  foot  of  road  and  by-path  in  the  county,  we  fixed  the  next 
afternoon  to  start.  I  returned  to  the  city  that  night,  full  of  excite- 
ment at  the  prospect  of  the  lively  time  awaiting  us  On  the  next 
day ;  told  Mr.  Seward  what  1  had  done,  and  asked  his  permission 
to  be  absent  for  two  days.  This  he  granted,  with  a  caution  not  to 
go  far  beyond  the  Union  lines. 

I  reported  to  Lieutenant  Tompkins  a  little  before  sundown, 
arrayed  in  my  scouting  suit,  with  two  pistols,  ready  to  go  to 
Richmond  if  it  was  so  desired.  So  or!  we  started  with  this  little 
force,  confident  that  we  could  whip  the  whole  Southern  Army  if 
necessary.  The  regulars  at  that  time,  as  well  as  now,  had  a  very 
high  opinion  of  themselves,  and  never  lost  an  opportunity  in  try- 
ing to  impress  it  upon  the  volunteers. 

We  made  our  way  in  the  direction  of  Fairfax  Court  House, 
and  went  along  nicely,  until  charging  up  the  main  street,  when  we 
found  most  of  the  houses  were  filled  with  the  enemy,  who  fired 
upon  us  from  the  windows.  The  regular  order  in  which  we  had 
proceeded  up  to  this  time  wras  now  dispensed  with,  and  for  a  time 
every  Regular  looked  out  for  "number  one,"  and  it  was  some  time 
before  all  got  together  again  so  as  to  march  back  to  camp  in  regu- 
lar army  style.  When  he  began  to  compare  results  Lieutenant 
Gorman  found  he  had  been  shot  in  the  left  wrist;  Lieutenant 


45 


Tompkins  had  one  horse  killed  under  him  and  another  shot  in 
the  neck,  which  he  afterwards  presented  to  a  beautiful  country 
£irl  who  lived  near  Ball's  Cross  Roads. 


Tompkins'  Charge  Through  Fairfax  Court  House. 

The  writer  received  a  shot  in  the  right  breast,  but  managed  to 
keep  on  his  horse  and  empty  his  pistols,  trying  to  hit  someone, 
but  was  never  able  to  determine  whether  he  was  successful  or  not. 
Lieutenant  Tompkins  was  also  slightly  wounded  in  his  foot,  but 
did  not  allude  to  it  in  his  report.  Capt.  J.  W.  Bean;  now  retired, 
took  a  conspicuous  part  in  the  charge  through  the  village. 

As  this  battle  was  considered  such  a  great  achievement  at  the 
time,  a  report  of  it  seems  worthy  of  reproduction,  and  may  prove 
of  interest,  showing,  as  it  does,  the  utter  carelessness  and  reck- 
lessness of  many  at  the  beginning-  of  the  rebellion.  It  follows ; 


46 

Camp  Union,  Virginia,  June  I,  1861. 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  report,  pursuant  to  verbal  instructions 
received  from  the  Colonel  commanding,  that  I  left  camp  on  the 
eve  of  the  3ist  of  May,  in  command  of  a  detachment  of  Company 
B,  Second  Cavalry,  consisting  of  fifty  men,  with  Second  Lieut. 
D.  S.  Gordon,  Second  Dragoons,  temporarily  attached,  for  the 
purpose  of  reconnoitering  the  country  in  the  vicinity  of  Fairfax 
Court  House.  Upon  approaching  the  town,  the  picket  guard  was 
surprised  and  captured.  Several  documents  were  found  upon 
their  persons.  On  entering  the  town  of  Fairfax,  my  command  was 
fired  upon  by  the  rebel  troops  from  the  windows  and  house  tops. 
We  charged  on  a  company  of  mounted  rifles,  and  succeeded  in 
driving  them  from  the  town.  Immediately  two  or  three  additional 
companies  came  up  to  their  relief,  who  at  once  commenced  firing 
upon  us,  which  fire  I  returned.  Perceiving  that  I  was  largely  out- 
numbered, I  deemed  it  advisable  to  retreat,  which  I  did  in  good 
order,  taking  five  prisoners,  fully  armed  and  equipped,  and  two 
horses.  Nine  horses  were  lost  during  the  engagement,  and  four 
wounded.  The  force  actually  engaged  at  the  commencement  of 
the  engagement  were  two  companies  of  cavalry  and  one  rifle  com- 
pany, but  reinforcements  coming  in  from  the  camp  adjacent  to  the 
Court  House,  which,  I  hear  upon  reliable  authority,  increased 
their  force  to  upwards  of  1000  men.  Twenty-five  of  the  enemy 
were  killed  and  wounded.  Captains  Carey  and  Fearing,  and  Ad- 
jutant  Frank,  Fifth  New  York  S.  M.,  accompanied  the  command 
as  volunteers,  and  did  very  effective  service.  I  regret  to  say  that 
Captain  Carey  was  wounded  in  the  foot.  Lieutenant  Gordon  of 
the  Second  FJragoons,  temporarily  attached  to  Company  B,  Sec- 
ond Cavalry,  accompanied  me  and  rendered  me  valuable  service. 
The  prisoners,  horses,  arms  and  equipments  taken  have  this  day 
been  turned  over  to  the  proper  authorities. 
I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         CHARLES  H.  TOMPKINS, 
First  Lieut.,  Second  Calvary,  Commanding  Co.  B. 
COL.  DAVID  HUNTER, 

Commanding  Brigade. 

The  writer  having  received  his  "baptism  of  fire,"  was  plastered 
up,  and  on  the  third  day  reported  to  Mr.  Seward  at  the  Depart- 
ment, who  congratulated  him  upon  his  return  and  excused  him  for 
several  days  until  he  should  have  fully  recovered. 

Soon  after  my  return  to  the  Department  again  Secretary  Seward 
sent  for  me  and  read  the  following  letter : 


47 

Headquarters,  N.  E.  Virginia, 

Arlington,  June  1 1,  1861. 
Hon.  William  H.  Seward, 

Secretary  of  State : 

Sir — Mr.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  a  messenger  in  the  State  Department 
and  a  resident  of  these  parts,  can  obtain  valuable  information  for 
this  part  of  the  Army  if  he  can  have  a  short  leave  of  absence.  Can 
the  Secretary  give  him  one  for  a  few  days  without  prejudice  to  his 
situation,  and  order  him  to  report  here  at  once? 
Very  respectfully, 

(Signed)         IRWIN  MCDOWELL, 

Brig-Gen.  Commanding. 

Mr.  Seward  immediately  granted  me  five  days'  leave  of  absence, 
and  upon  reporting  to  General  McDowell  at  Arlington,  he  or- 
dered me  to  report  to  General  Heintzleman  at  Alexandria,  who 
in  turn  ordered  me  to  report  to  Col.  O.  B.  Wilcox,  with  instruc- 
tions for  him  to  send  about  300  men  with  me  on  a  scouting  expe- 
dition outside  the  lines.  I  cannot  recall  the  name  of  the  com- 
manding officer  at  present,  but  we  marched  out  the  little  river 
turnpike,  passed  Clouds  Mills  to  Annandale,  where  we  halted  and 
made  our  plans  to  send  a  detachment  to  the  right  and  left.  One 
command  went  up  as  far  as  Accotink  and  one  within  three  miles 
of  Fairfax  Court  House ;  and  the  latter  had  a  little  skirmish  with 
the  "Johnnies,"  who  were  dressed  in  citizens'  clothes.  These  scat- 
tered into  the  fields,  when  the  Major  in  command  immediately 
sent  orders  to  take  possession  of  all  the  horses  that  could  be  found, 
after  which  the  command,  with  myself,  returned  the  next  after- 
noon, when  I  verbally  reported  to  General  Heintzleman,  while  the 
commanding  officer  of  his  detachment  reported  to  Col.  O.  B.  Wil- 
cox of  the  First  Michigan  the  result  of  his  scout,  and  took  with 
him  all  the  horses  that  had  been  captured.  Among  those  horses 
were  two  that  were  reported  to  belong  to  General  Lee,  which  had 
been  left  with  Mrs.  Fitzhugh,  a  relative  of  his  and  the  owner  of 
Ravensworth. 

Soon  after  making  my  report  I  started  for  Washington,  and 
before  reaching  Four  Mile  Run  was  overtaken  by  a  squad  of  cav- 
alry (Arrest  No.  3),  while  on  my  own  horse,  which  I  had  pur- 
chased a  few  weeks  before  in  the  city  of  Washington.  They  ar- 


48 

rested,  disarmed,  carried  me  back  to  Alexandria  and  imprisoned 
me  in  the  Marshal  House  with  some  of  the  men  I  had  helped  to 
capture,  no  reason  being  given. 

Upon  my  reporting  to  the  General,  he  had  seemed  to  place 
as  much  confidence  in  me  as  if  I  were  a  man  fifty  years  of  age, 
asking  my  advice  and  plans  for  moving  his  Army  to  Richmond, 
also  the  condition  of  the  roads,  the  size  of  the  streams  to  cross, 
and  if,  in  my  opinion,  there  would  be  much  resistance  offered  by 
the  rebels  when  he  made  a  display  of  his  grand  army,  straightening 


GENERAL  WINFIELD  SOOTT. 

up  with  a  most  exalted  opinion  of  himself  and  acting  as  if  all  he 
had  to  do  was  to  march  right  through  the  whole  country  to  Rich- 
mond with  his  army  and  drive  everything  before  him.  I  reminded 
him  that  he  would  have  no  easy  task  if  he  expected  to  march  to 
Richmond  without  strong  opposition,  as  the  kind  of  material  the 
Confederate  Army  was  composed  of  coiild  not  be  bluffed.  It  did 


49 

not  take  him  long  to  see  that  he  was  ignorant  of  the  section  of  Coun- 
try he  had  to  go  through  and  the  class  of  men  he  had  to  oppose 
him.  He  must  have  been  severely  reprimanded  by  General  Scott 
in  relation  to  Mrs.  Fitzhugh's  horses,  and  not  knowing  how  to 
vent  his  spite  on  anyone  else,  arbitrarily  pounced  upon  me  in* 
stead  of  the  commanding  officer  of  the  scouting  expedition,  who 
naturally  was  responsible  for  all  movements,  I  only  being  a  scout 
and  guide. 

Orders  were  strictly  given  to  prevent  me  from  communicating 
with  anyone,  but  through  the  kindness  of  a  sentry,  to  whom  I 
explained  my  situation,  he  sent  a  little  note  that  I  had  Written  in 
lead  pencil  to  Mr.  Seward  personally,  who  immediately  sent  Mn 
Webster  with  the  following  note  to  General  McDowell : 

Department  of  State, 
Washington,  D.  C.,  June  20,  1861. 

My  Dear  General — This  note  will  be  handed  you  by  Mr.  E.  D. 
Webster,  one  of  the  clerks  in  the  State  Department,  who  comes 
over  at  my  request  to  enquire  into  the  case  of  Geo.  A.  Armes  (un- 
der arrest  at  Alexandria),  and  to  see  whether  anything  can  be  done 
with  propriety  in  his  behalf.  Mr.  Webster  will  explain  to  you  my 
impressions  in  reference  to  the  matter. 
Very  truly  yours, 

W.  H,  SEWARD. 

To  GENERAL  MCDOWELL, 

Arlington  Heights,  Va> 

The  following  order  was  then  issued : 

Colonel  Heintzleman, 

Commanding  Brigade, 

Alexandria,  Va. : 

Sir — Through  the  intercession  of  Mr.  Seward,  Secretary  of 
State,  I  am  induced  to  order  that  Geo.  A.  Armes,  now  a  prisoner 
under  your  guards,  be  returned  to  his  place  in  the  State  Depart- 
ment on  his  own  recognizance. 

(Signed)        I.  McDowELL, 

Brig.  Gen.  Commanding. 
June  21,  1861—7  A.  M. 

(4) 


5° 

Headquarters  Department  Northeast  Virginia, 

Camp  at  Arlington,  June  14,  1861. 
Mrs.  Fitzhugh, 

Ravensworth,  Fairfax  Co.,  Va.: 

Madam — I  have  the  honor  to  transmit  herewith  a  letter  to  your 
address  from  the  General-in-Chief,  which,  together  with  yours  to 
him  of  the  3ist  inst.,  he  has  sent  me  to  read.  Before  receiving 
these  letters  I  had  heard  of  the  outrage  without  knowing  whose 
property  had  been  taken,  and  had  instituted  measures  to  redress 
the  injury. 

Your  letter  gave  me  to  suppose  that  you  had  been  one  of  the 
sufferers,  and  I  immediately  made  an  investigation,  confirming 
this  supposition.  I  have  given  orders  to  have  your  horses  re- 
turned, as  well  as  those  of  your  neighbors,  and  will  see,  so  far  as 
I  can,  that  such  things  shall  not  again  occur.  I  take  the  liberty 
to  enclose  you  a  copy  of  the  order  which  I  have  just  issued,  and 
beg  to  assure  you  that  I  will  spare  no  pains  to  protect  everyone  in 
the  vicinity  of  the  troops  under  my  command. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  madam,  with  great  respect, 
Your  most  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         IRWIN  MCDOWELL, 

Brig.-General. 

Not  having  copies  of  this  correspondence  of  Mr.  Seward  and 
General  McDowell  in  my  possession  until  lately,  I  addressed  a 
letter  to  General  Wilcox,  who  immediately  returned  a  reply, 
which,  as  the  reader  will  see,  fully  exonerates  me  from  being 
responsible  for  any  horses  taken  by  the  troops,  I  being  only  a 
scout  at  the  time,  and  should  not  have  been  arrested  for  doing 
what  the  commanding  officer  ordered.  The  following  is  the  cor- 
respondence : 

Washington,  D.  C,  November  10,  1898. 
Gen.  O.  B.  Wilcox, 

U.  S.  Army,  Retired: 

Dear  Sir — having  lately  received  a  copy  of  the  correspondence 
between  Hon.  W.  M.  Seward,  Secretary  of  State,  and  General 
McDowell,  in  relation  to  the  capture  of  a  number  of  horses  in 
Fairfax  county,  Virginia,  during  the  month  of  June,  1861,  I  de- 
sire a  statement  from  you  in  relation  to  the  facts,  a  portion  of  your 
regiment  being  sent  with  me  on  a  scout  into  the  Confederate  lines, 
and  during  that  scout,  when  several  prisoners  were  taken  and 


quite  a  number  of  horses>  two  of  which  were  said  to  have  belonged 
to  Gen.  R.  E.  Lee,  and  left  at  Ravensworth  in  care  of  Mrs.  Fitz- 
hugh.  All  I  desire  is  a  statement  showing  that  these  horses  were 
turned  over  to  you,  and  shortly  after  returned  to  the  owners,  as  per 
order  of  General  McDowell;  and  the  further  statement  that  I  could 
not  have  been  responsible,  occupying,  as  I  did,  the  position  of  a 
guide  and  scout,  as  long  as  there  were  commissioned  officers  in 
command  of  the  troops,  which  I  was  guiding  into  the  enemy's 
country. 

Yours,  very  truly, 

(Signed)        G.  A.  A&MES, 

1405  F  street. 

2022  R  street  N.  W.,  Washington,  November  12,  1898. 
Major  Geo.  A.  Armes: 

Dear  Sir  —  In  reply  to  your  letter  of  the  loth  inst.,  so  far  as  my 
recollection  and  understanding  of  the  event  in  question  go,  the 
scouting  party  which  brought  in  the  horses  was  guided  by  your- 
self and  as  scout,  but  commanded  by  an  officer  of  the  First  Michi- 
gan Infantry,  Vols.,  who,  and  not  yourself,  must  have  been  re- 
sponsible; and,  further,  that  the  horses  were  turned  over  to  the 
Quartermaster's  Department  on  their  arrival  at  Alexandria,  and 
there  held  until  ordered  to  be  returned. 
Respectfully  yours, 

(Signed)        O.  B.  WILCOX, 
Late  Col.  First  Mich.  Vols.,  Bvt.  Maj.-Gen. 


.—  The  District  of  Columbia  Battalion  referred  to  on  page  37  was 
commanded  by  Captain  Lemuel  Towers,  afterward  Colonel  of  one  of  the  Dis- 
trict regiments.  He  took  a  very  active  part  in  the  defense  of  the  Capital. 


CHAPTER  II. 

I  continued  visiting  the  various  camps,  and  perceived  that  num- 
erous persons  were  making  money  selling  edibles  and  necessaries 
to  the  soldiers,  and  thought  that  while  the  new  troops  were  pre- 
paring themselves  for  active  service  I  would  try  to  make  a  few 
extra  dollars,  so  long  as  it  did  not  interfere  with  my  official  duties. 
Procuring  a  wagon  and  loading  it  with  a  variety  of  articles,  upon 
an  investment  of  $42  I  made  a  profit  of  $160.  This  encouraged 
me  to  further  ventures  in  the  same  line,  and  during  the  month  of 
June  I  cleared  over  $1200.  Investing  this  in  a  stock  of  goods,  I 
established  a  portable  store  beyond  the  bridge  near  Bailey's  Cross 
Roads,  and  secured  a  young  man  to  take  charge  of  my  interests 
there. 

This  young  man  resided  in  Washington,  and  having  known 
him  for  some  time,  I  had  entire  confidence  in  him  ;  but  just  before 
the  battle  of  Bull  Run,  having  occasion  to  ride  out  and  see  how 
my  business  was  progressing,  I  found  to  my  astonishment  that 
the  store,  with  all  the  stock,  had  been  sold,  and  this  valued  clerk 
had  disappeared  with  the  proceeds. 

So  my  little  fortune  having  been  lost,  and  the  troops  prepar- 
ing to  march  to  Richmond,  I  was  compelled  to  fall  back  on  my 
monthly  salary  of  fifty  dollars,  and  did  not  undertake  any  further 
speculation  until  after  the  battle  of  Bull  Run. 

Having  arranged  to  go  with  General  Heintzleman  on  his  march 
to  Richmond,  I  obtained  ten  days'  leave  from  Mr.  Seward  and 
reported  to  the  General  two  days  before  he  broke  camp.  Then, 
as  he  wanted  to  know  the  best  roads  to  take,  I  thought  I  would 
venture  out  as  far  as  the  picket  line  at  different  points  in  order 
tc  intelligently  report  concerning  the  shortest  and  best  roads  to 
Centerville.  Just  the  night  before  they  were  to  march  I  was  halted 
and  placed  under  arrest  by  about  twenty  Dutchmen  of  General 
Blenker's  command,  and  in  spite  of  all  attempts  at  explanation 
and  endeavors  to  find  some  one  who  could  read  my  papers,  I  was 


53 


thrust  into  an  old  icehouse  and 
there  closely  guarded.  (Arrest 
No.  4.)  About  three  o'clock  in 


Arrest  No.  4,  by  Blenker's  Soldiers. 


the  morning  an  order  came  for  my  release,  and  an  officer  was 
ordered  to  accompany  me  to  General  Blenker's  headquarters. 
Here  wine  and  beer  flowed  freely.  After  the  General  and  his  staff 
were  satisfied  that  they  had  not  captured  Jeff  Davis  or  General 
Lee  I  was  invited  to  join  them,  and  we  parted  good  friends.  How- 
ever, as  I  was  the  first  prisoner  the  division  had  taken,  the  gal- 
lant soldiers  who  had,  as  they  thought,  won  a  great  victory  in 
surrounding  a  lone  boy,  on  his  own  horse,  on  a  public  road,  at 
least  half  a  mile  within  their  own  lines,  just  before  sundown,  felt 
that  they  should  all  be  mentioned  in  general  orders  and  commis- 
sioned as  officers  as  a  reward  for  their  alertness  on  guard. 

When  released  I  reported  my  little  experience  to  Mr.  Seward, 
and,  instead  of  sympathizing  with  me,  as  I  expected  he  would, 
he  simply  smiled  and  remarked  to  those  present,  among  them  Col. 
Amos  Webster,  that  the  soldiers  seemed  to  be  very  watchful  and 
should  do  well  if  they  ever  met  the  enemy. 

Moving  out  with  the  command  from  Alexandria,  up  the  old 
Braddock  road  most  of  the  way,  until  we  got  near  Centerville, 
where  we  met  a  party  who  informed  us  that  the  Confederates  had 
left  that  town,  having  placed  a  few  logs  in  the  intrenchments  to 
imitate  cannon,  and  left  only  a  few  men  in  the  works;  that  the 


54 

main  body  had  fallen  back  to  Bull  Run,  and  were  there  thoroughly 
intrenching  themselves. 

I  told  General  McDowell  that  by  a  prompt  movement  to  the 
left  of  Centerville  and  over  to  Cub  Run  there  would  be  a  good 
chance  to  cut  off  and  capture  a  large  number  of  the  enemy,  but 
he  pompously  replied  that  he  had  force  enough  to  accomplish 
what  he  wished  and  was  fully  posted  as  to  the  movements  of  the 
enemy. 

I  found  myself  so  abruptly  "sat  down  upon"  by  the  great 
General,  who  evidently  felt  at  that  time  that  he  could  whip  the 
world,  that  the  wind  was  completely  taken  out  of  my  sails,  and  I 
felt  as  if  my  patriotism  was  not  appreciated  as  it  should  be.  Pos- 
sibly he  perceived  that  T  was  beginning  to  feel  myself  a  most 
important  personage  to  the  Army,  and  that  the  General  was  de- 
pendent upon  me  for  advice  in  regard  to  the  movements  of  the 
Army.  As  he  did  not  seem  to  appreciate  the  advice  and  informa- 
tion given  him,  I  returned  to  General  Heintzleman,  with  whom  I 
remained  until  after  the  "great  battle,"  where  the  General  was 
wounded  in  the  arm  and  myself  in  the  right  knee,  just  about  the 
time  the  retreat  began,  near  Blackman's  Ford. 

It  was  a  memorable  sight  to  witness,  carriages  of  all  descrip- 
tions, from  six  to  ten  abreast,  loaded  with  sightseers,  starting  on 
the  top  of  the  hill  at  Centerville  and  crashing  down  pellmell  to  the 
foot,  where  the  road  was  only  wide  enough  for  two  vehicles  to 
pass  at  one  time.  The  ford  was  soon  so  blocked  with  horses, 
mules  and  vehicles  of  every  kind,  smashed  and  pitted  upon  each 
other,  that  it  was  impossible  to  use  the  turnpike,  so  that  thousands 
had  to  abandon  their  carriages  and  make  their  way  through  the 
fields,  some  afoot,  some  on  mules  or  horseback,  paying  as  high  as 
fifty  dollars  for  the  privilege  of  riding  a  horse  or  mule,  without 
saddle  or  blanket.  Many  of  the  teamsters  left  their  wagons  behind 
and  hired  out  the  horses  or  mules  to  sightseers,  who  had  only  a  few 
hours  before  been  enjoying  their  luncheons  and  had  expected  to 
have  a  good  time  at  a  safe  distance  from  the  scene  of  conflict. 
They  had  gone  out  to  witness  General  McDowell  in  the  act  of 
driving  the  Confederates  before  him  to  Richmond.  So  great  was 
the  panic  and  bewilderment  of  the  men  and  animals  that  many 
were  killed  and  injured  in  the  crash  at  the  ford. 


55 

Thousands  of  men  threw  their  guns,  equipment,  ammunition, 
blankets  and  clothing  into  the  fields,  which  afterwards  proved  a 
rich  harvest  for  the  farmers,  who  had  no  crop  to  gather  that  sea- 
son other  than  that  abandoned  by  our  Army  and  by  the  many  citi- 
zens who  had  accompanied  our  Army  as  far  as  Centerville  and 
Cub  Run,  a  goodly  number  of  them  having  gone  even  to  Bull  Run, 
the  scene  of  that  notable  conflict. 


Stampede  from  Bull  Run. 

As  I  had  been  shot  in  the  knee,  and  the  wound  had  become 
very  painful,  I  was  placed  in  a  wagon,  taken  to  Alexandria  and 
placed  in  a  hospital.  Thence  word  was  sent  to  Mr.  Seward  of  my 
condition,  and  was  therefore  necessarily  excused  for  some  weeks. 
The  day  after  reaching  the  hospital  it  was  decided  that  amputa- 
tion was  necessary  to  save  my  life.  I  was  placed  on  a  table,  and 
some  medical  students  began  preparations  to  perform  the  opera- 
tion, whereupon  I  raised  such  lively  objections  that  the  old  chap- 
lain, Manuel  J.  Gonzales,  later  of  the  Ninth  U.  S.  Cavalry,  inter- 
fered, and  said  that  I  should  not  be  forced ;  thereupon  they  de- 


sisted,  and  I  was  allowed  to  retain  my  limb.  With  good  medical 
attention  and  careful  nursing-,  in  a  few  weeks  recovery  almost  en- 
tirely was  made,  and  now.  thirty-eight  years  later,  it  is  only  after 
a  severe  storm  that  any  pain  is  felt  from  the  wound. 


Rescued  from  Amputating  Table. 

Soon  after  I  was  able  to  mount  my  horse,  I  learned  that  the 
picket  line  had  been  extended  beyond  my  home  at  Annandale, 
and  not  having  heard  from  my  family  for  some  time,  I  rode  out  to 
see  them.  The  effects  of  war  were  visible  on  every  side.  Just 
before  the  battle  of  Bull  Run,  Gen.  J.  E.  B.  Stewart  paid  my  mother 
a  visit,  and  informed  her  that  it  would  be  necessary  for  him  to  take 
all  the  horses,  mules  and  cattle  back  into  their  lines,  to  prevent  the 
Yankees  from  getting  them.  lie  invited  my  younger  brother  to 
become  a  member  of  his  staff,  saying  he  could  keep  and  ride  his 
three-year-old  Morgan  colt,  a  beautiful  animal,  and  that  no  one 
should  take  it  from  him.  So  all  the  stock  was  driven  off,  and  my 
brother  became  a  member  of  his  staff. 


57 

The  trusted  overseer,  who  had  been  with  our  family  for  many 
years,  told  my  mother  that  he  did  not  wish  "to  go  to  the  war," 
and  that  he  had  heard  that  Missouri  was  a  good  State  in  which 
to  settle  as  a  farmer.  She  therefore  paid  him  $600  in  gold,  and 
he  left  Fairfax  at  once  with  his  wife  and  baby  boy.  Soon  after  he 
had  left  a  company  of  Stuart's  Cavalry  encamped  in  the  yard. 
The  Captain  said  it  would  be  necessary  to  use  the  carpets  for  his 
men  and  horses,  and  to  move  the  piano  and  furniture  back  within 
their  lines,  as  the  Yankees  might  charge  in  at  any  time  and  rob 
the  house.  So  the  beautiful  carpets  were  made  into  horse  blankets, 
and  the  piano  and  furniture  in  the  end  confiscated.  Shortly  after 
the  company  retired,  leaving  the  house  between  the  two  lines, 
and  as  the  firing  was  kept  up  for  some  days,  it  was  dangerous  for 
anyone  to  go  out  of  the  house  night  or  day. 

My  father,  being  a  Union  man,  found  New  York  a  more  com- 
fortable and  safer  place.  Being  compelled  finally  to  abandon  her 
home,  my  mother  gathered  all  her  portable  valuables,  including 
silverware,  and  putting  them  into  the  only  vehicle  left  on  the  place, 
the  old  colored  coachman,  Ben,  was  ordered  to  take  them  into  the 
Union  lines  to  a  neighbor's  for  safe-keeping,  but  before  he  reached 
the  Union  picket  line  he  was  captured  by  a  scouting  party  of 
Confederates,  and  to  this  day  nothing  has  ever  been  heard  of 
driver,  horses,  carriage  or  its  contents. 

Becoming  anxious  about  my  mother,  who  had  insisted  upon 
remaining  at  home,  and  between  two  fires,  I  secured  permission 
from  Mr.  Seward  to  be  absent  three  days.  He  gave  me  a  note  to 
General  Heintzleman,  commanding  at  Alexandria,  who  allowed 
me  100  men  as  an  escort.  We  immediately  proceeded  to  my 
home,  and  found  my  mother  still  there.  I  induced  her  to  return 
with  me  to  Washington,  where  I  rented  a  small  house  on  E  street, 
between  Ninth  and  Tenth,  to  which  my  father  soon  came.  He 
could  not,  in  the  excited  condition  of  the  country,  succeed  in  his 
lecturing  tours,  and  the  burden  of  supporting  the  family  fell  upon 
my  shoulders — all  trying  to  exist  upon  my  $50  a  month. 

So,  hiring  a  wagon,  in  the  hope  of  improving  our  condition,  I 
bought  sixty  watermelons  for  $15,  expecting  to  make  at  least  $20 
profit.  Loading  them  into  the  wagon,  I  drove  to  the  camp  of  the 


58 

Twelfth  New  York  Volunteers  (Thirteenth  and  K  streets),  now 
Franklin  Square,  and,  having  lost  all  confidence  in  clerks,  felt  sure 
of  success  by  attending  to  my  own  affairs.  As  soon  as  I  halted 
the  wagon  in  camp  the  boys  crowded  around  to  learn  the  price  of 


The  Watermelon  Enterprise. 

the  melons.  I  sold  one  for  seventy-five  cents,  and  a  $10  bill  was 
handed  me  to  change.  Just  at  that  moment  my  attention  was  called 
to  a  soldier  slipping  away  with  a  melon.  I  ran  after  him,  but  he 
disappeared  among  the  tents,  and  I  failed  to  find  him.  I  at  once 
spoke  to  one  of  the  ofBcers,  who  said  that  he  would  go  with  me  to 
the  wagon,  and  that  he  would  "fix"  any  man  who  dared  to  take  a 
melon  without  paying  for  it.  On  our  return  to  the  wagon  not  a 
single  melon  was  found.  He  then  kindly  told  me  to  go  with  him 
and  show  him  anyone  who  had  taken  a  melon.  We  found  500 
men  eating  melons,  but  they  declared  with  great  unanimity  and 
superb  equanimity  that  they  had  either  purchased  them  the  night 
before,  or  had  just  bought  them  from  some  one  else.  So  I  drove 
home  very  much  disappointed,  but  determined  to  try  again. 


59 

The  next  day  I  hired  a  man  to  hand  them  over  as  I  received  the 
pay,  and  in  that  way  cleared  $40  on  three  loads.  Within  ten  days 
I  cleared  over  $400,  which  I  invested  in  two  teams  and  wagons, 
and  hired  them  out  for  $25  a  day  each,  to  haul  goods  for  the  sut- 
lers, who  made  it  pay  by  charging  accordingly. 

At  the  time  of  the  advance  on  Richmond  by  General  McClel- 
lan  I  again  obtained  a  few  days'  leave  of  absence,  and  reported  to 
General  Heintzleman  at  Yorktown.  In  the  charge  at  the  battle 
of  Williamsburg,  where  so  many  were  stuck  in  the  mud,  I  was 
shot  in  the  groin.  Then  I  was  taken  to  Fortress  Monroe,  and  the 
next  day  sent  to  Washington  by  way  of  Baltimore,  where,  after  a 
few  weeks  of  careful  nursing,  1  resumed  my  duties  at  the  State 
Department. 

I  still  continued  my  speculations  after  office  hours,  and  soon 
had  realized  over  $5000  in  cash. 

The  Union  lines  were  now  beyond  Fairfax  Court  House,  and 
1  was  advised  to  rent  the  "Union  Hotel,"  formerly  kept  by  James 
W.  Jackson,  and  to  run  a  stage  to  and  from  Alexandria,  which  I 
proceeded  to  do  at  once,  investing  $2000  in  the  enterprise.  I  em- 
ployed a  man  to  manage  the  hotel  and  another  to  run  the  stage, 
as  I  was  anxious  to  retain  my  office  in  case  of  emergency. 

These  men  sent  me  very  encouraging  reports,  saying  the  stage 
was  always  well  filled  and  the  hotel  always  crowded,  but  that  the 
soldiers,  who  constituted  the  bulk  of  travel,  did  not  have  any 
money  until  pay-day,  when  they  would  settle.  As  the  demands 
upon  me  for  horse  feed  and  provisions  were  so  great,  and  little 
coming  in,  I  determined  to  go  and  see  for  myself  just  how  matters 
were.  I  found  that  most  of  the  travelers  were  soldiers  who  had 
either  been  discharged  or  who  were  going  home,  and  had  been 
imposing  on  the  men  in  charge,  they  believing  that  a  soldier  could 
be  fully  trusted,  having  only  taken  the  word  of  some  and  the  note 
of  others,  to  be  liquidated  on  the  next  pay-day. 

The  night  after  my  arrival  at  Fairfax  four  of  the  horses  and  all 
of  the  stage  harnesses  were  stolen,  so  I  made  up  my  mind  to  sell 
at  auction  what  was  left,  realizing  only  $100  upon  my  investment. 

My  patriotic  and  business  friends,  who  had  such  confidence  in 
the  honor  and  promises  of  the  soldier,  turned  over  to  me  notes 


6o 

and  agreements  they  had  taken  from  the  soldiers  to  the  amount 
of  $2600,  settlements  to  be  made  on  the  first  pay-day,  which,  so 
far  as  my  interests  are  concerned,  has  not  yet  arrived.  Capt. 
Samuel  B.  M.  Young  of  one  of  the  Pennsylvania  regiments  prom- 
ised to  return  and  see  that  I  was  compensated  for  transportation 
and  hotel  bills,  but  he  did  not  keep  his  word. 

One  of  my  next  experiences  on  a  large  scale  was  to  charter  a 
vessel  and  arrange  to  load  it  with  supplies  for  the  front.  And  as  no 
goods  could  be  shipped  without  special  permission  of  the  Secre- 
tary of  the  Treasury,  I  obtained  a  letter  to  him  from  Mr.  Seward, 
and  after  an  interview  with  Secretary  Chase  he  gave  me  the  fol- 
lowing letter : 

Treasury  Department,  April  29,  1862. 

Sir — you  are  hereby  authorized  to  grant  a  clearance  to  George 
A.  Armes  for  his  vessel  to  Cheeseman  Landing,  with  the  follow- 
ing sutlers'  supplies  needed  for  the  Army  near  that  place,  viz.: 
Apples,  dried  apples,  oranges,  figs,  lemons,  butter,  cheese,  milk, 
syrup,  molasses,  raisins,  candles,  crackers,  wallets,  brooms,  com- 
forters, boots,  pocket  looking-glasses,  pins,  gloves,  leather,  tin 
washbasins,  shirt  buttons,  horn  and  brass  buttons,  newspapers, 
books,  tobacco,  cigars,  pipes,  matches,  blacking,  blacking  brushes, 
clothes  brushes,  tooth  brushes,  hair  brushes,  coarse  and  fine 
combs,  emery,  crocus,  pocket  handkerchiefs,  stationery,  armor 
oil,  sweet  oil,  rotten  stone,  razor  strops,  razors,  soap,  shaving  soap, 
suspenders,  scissors,  shoestrings,  needles,  thread,  knives,  pencils 
and  Bristol  brick. 

You  will  insert  the  following  condition  in  the  clearance:  "The 
vessel  and  all  her  cargo  to  be  forfeited  to  the  United  States  if  any 
other  goods  are  found  on  board  of  her  than  those  specified  above, 
on  examination  by  the  custom-house  officers,  or  by  the  military  or 
naval  authorities  after  clearing  for  Cheeseman  Landing."  You 
will  also  require  a  suitable  bond  that  none  of  the  articles  so  con- 
veyed shall  be  used  to  give  aid  or  comfort  to  the  insurgents. 
I  am,  very  respectfully, 

S.  P.  CHASE, 

Secretary  of  the  Treasury. 
JUDSON  MITCHELL,  Esq., 

Collector,  Georgetown,  D.  C. 

Mentioning  only  part  of  what  I  was  allowed  to  take  in  the  ves- 
sel, and  that  it  had  to  be  inspected  by  the  Collector  of  George- 


6i 

town,  D.  C.,  resulted  in  further  disappointments  for  me.  I  em- 
ployed six  good  men  to  carry  out  my  directions,  and  I  made  a  net 
profit  of  $4700  on  that  one  trip  to  the  Army. 

As  my  hotel  and  stage  business  had  ceased  to  exist,  I  rented  the 
southeast  corner  of  Tenth  and  H  streets  N.  W.  in  the  city  of 
Washington,  investing  $3000  in  horses  and  wagons,  and  entered 
into  contracts  with  sutlers  to  haul  their  goods  to  the  camps  in  and 
around  the  city.  I  put  six  teams  to  work  at  $10  each  per  day, 
which  returned  me  a  net  profit  of  about  $50  per  day.  But  my 
prosperity  was  not  destined  to  be  of  long  duration.  One  morn- 
ing, not  long  after,  about  2  o'clock,  I  was  aroused  from  bed  by 
the  alarm  of  fire,  and  springing  up,  found,  to  my  dismay,  that  all 
my  property  was  being  rapidly  destroyed  by  the  flames,  and  that 
all  I  had  owned  was  lost.  My  mother  was  heartbroken  over  this 
new  misfortune,  for  she  was  very  proud  of  the  business  success  of 
her  young  son,  and  to  see  him  lose  everything  in  this  pitiless  man- 
ner, following  so  closely  the  banishment  from  her  own  home  and 
the  giving  up  of  all  her  possessions,  seemed  more  than  she  could 
endure. 

I  did  not  undertake  any  further  speculation,  but  attended 
strictly  to  my  duties  at  the  Department  as  if  nothing  had  hap- 
pened, little  thinking  that  added,  and  even  more,  bitter  misfor- 
tunes were  in  store  for  me,  for  soon  the  news  came  that  our  ele- 
gant residence,  together  with  the  thirteen  outbuildings,  had  been 
burned  and  entirely  destroyed  by  the  Union  troops.  Going  out 
there,  I  found  that  the  reports  were  indeed  only  too  true.  The 
property  had  been  ordered  to  be  burnt  by  Colonel  Hart  of  one  of 
the  New  York  regiments,  to  prevent  the  Confederates  from  using 
it.  This  shock  was  more  than  my  poor  mother  could  bear;  she 
became  prostrated  under  this  additional  affliction,  and  soon  after 
died  of  the  sorrows  of  her  rapidly  accumulating  misfortunes. 

After  the  loss  of  my  mother,  I  secured  leave  of  absence  from 
the  Department  to  visit  relatives  residing  in  Iowa,  then  quite  a 


62 


Western  State.  While  there 
(although  only  a  boy)  I  was 
asked  to  drill  the  men  who 
were  being  enlisted  for  the 
war,  and  found  that  my  little 
experience  at  a  military  school 
in  Virginia  was  of  great  ser- 
vice, and  I  became  a  very  pop- 
ular drill-master.  I  helped  or- 
ganize and  drill  a  company, 
which  we  were  unable  to  get 
in  the  State  service,  the  State 
of  Iowa  having  already  filled 
its  quota,  and  after  receiving 
the  following  from  Mr.  Sew- 
ard,  I  called  on  Captain 
Marsh  to  see  if  he  would  be 
willing  to  join  the  regiment 
which  Colonel  Close  was  or- 
ganizing in  Alexandria,  Va. 
He  gave  me  a  letter,  which  I 
presented  to  Colonel  Close, 
who  failed  to  get  transporta- 
tion from  the  Government  for  this  company  from  Cedar  Rapids, 
but  it  all  shows  the  interest  I  took  as  a  boy  in  the  cause  of  the 
Union. 

The  military  fever  now  began  to  grow  on  me,  and  I  thought  I 
would  like  to  enter  the  army  as  a  private  soldier ;  so  wrote  Mr. 
Seward  asking  his  advice,  and  received  the  following  reply : 


*?**, 


'<2^     <S?4st 


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^ 


Immediately  upon  receipt  of  this  letter,  I  returned  to  Washing- 
ton and  called  upon  Mr.  Seward,  and  requested  him  to  let  my 
brother,  who  was  at  a  school  in  New  York,  have  my  place  in  the 
Department.  He  agreeing  to  this,  I  resigned  in  his  favor,  and  en- 
listed as  a  private  soldier  in  A.  C.  Widdecomb's  Company  B,  Six- 
teenth Virginia  Volunteers. 

Shortly  after  I  was  on  duty  shooting  at  a  target,  which  I  failed 
to  hit.  This  seemed  to  anger  the  Captain,  and  the  first  sergeant 
was  ordered  to  relieve  me  of  my  equipment,  and  I  was  detailed  as 
an  orderly  at  company  headquarters,  being  too  delicate  and  not 
strong  enough  to  handle  my  gun.  -The  Captain  being  generally 
busy,  I  did  not  see  very  much  of  him,  and  therefore  had  a  great 


6.5 

part  of  the  time  to  myself,  which  I  employed  reading,  Army  books 
being  the  chief  object  of  interest  with  me.  A  few  weeks  passed, 
when  one  day  Lieutenant  Poynton  threw  a  pair  of  dirty  boots  at 
me,  under  the  fly  of  the  tent,  where  I  was  standing,  ordering  me 
to  clean  and  black  them.  I  informed  him  that  I  did  not  enlist 
for  that  kind  of  service.  He  then  threatened  to  tie  me  up  if  I  did 
not  obey  at  once,  when  I  started  on  the  run  for  the  Colonel's  tent, 
a  sergeant  after  me.  The  Colonel  listened  to  my  complaint,  and 
just  then  the  Lieutenant  coming  up,  the  Colonel  asked  him  how 
he  dared  to  order  a  soldier  of  his  regiment  to  perform  such  menial 
duty,  at  the  same  time  notifying  him  that  if  he  ever  heard  of  his 
being  guilty  of  such  an  act  again  he  would  take  official  notice  of  it. 

The  next  morning  I  received  an  order  to  report  to  the  Adju- 
tant's office,  and  was  made  a  mounted  orderly,  my  principal  duty 
being  to  carry  reports  to  Brigade  and  Division  Headquarters. 

I  shall  never  forget  my  first  meeting  with  General  Abercrombie, 
who  was  then  in  command  at  Arlington  Heights.  The  General 
was  sitting  at  his  desk  writing,  when  I  walked  up  to  him,  with  my 
cap  on,  without  my  belt  or  anything  to  indicate  that  I  was  on  duty, 
and  said,  "Good  morning,  General,"  in  a  familiar  way.  He  at 
once  flew  into  a  rage,  and  exclaimed,  "Who  are  you?  Take  off 
your  cap  !  Stand  at  attention !" 

I  handed  him  a  dispatch ;  he  acknowledged  its  receipt  on  the 
envelope,  and  then  informed  me  that  whenever  I  entered  an  offi- 
cer's quarters  again,  unless  I  had  my  side-arms  or  belt  on,  to  show 
that  I  was  on  duty,  to  uncover  and  stand  at  attention  until  recog- 
nized. His  words  and  manner  made  an  impression  upon  me  that 
I  shall  never  forget,  and  it  proved  of  value,  as  I  had  not  then  dis- 
covered the  relation  between  enlisted  men  and  officers. 

Having,  when  not  on  duty,  spent  most  of  my  time  in  studying 
military  tactics,  reading  Army  regulations,  etc.,  in  a  few  weeks  I 
requested  that  I  be  returned  to  my  company.  There  I  was  made 
a  lance-corporal,  then  sergeant,  and  daily  drilled  the  company, 
when  not  on  picket  duty,  around  Fall's  Church  a'nd  Munson's 
Hill,  where  quite  a  number  of  skirmishes  took  place.  I  had  served 
about  four  months  as  an  enlisted  man,  when  our  Colonel,  with 
some  ladies,  came  out  to  where  we  were  drilling.  After  watching 
the  maneuvers  awhile,  he  ordered  me  to  report  to  him.  Leaving 
my  men  at  "Place,  rest,"  I  appeared  before  the  Colonel.  Drawing 


66 

from  his  pocket  a  large  envelope,  he  said,  as  he  handed  it  to  me : 
"Sergeant,  the  officer  who  ordered  you  to  clean  his  boots  has  been 
found  guilty  of  drunkenness  on  picket  duty,  and  dismissed  the 
service ;  it  being  the  first  vacancy  in  the  regiment,  I  have  decided 
to  fill  it  by  handing  you  this  commission  as  Second  Lieutenant. 
You  may  have  four  days'  leave  in  which  to  visit  Washington,  in 
order  to  procure  your  uniform." 

I  was  so  surprised  that  I  hardly  knew  how  to  reply,  and  at  last 
declined  the  honor,  on  the  ground  that  I  was  not  old  enough  to 
accept  such  a  commission,  but  the  Colonel  advised  its  acceptance, 
saying  that  he  was  the  best  judge  of  that. 

I  thanked  him,  and  returned  to  my  company,  and  was  heartily 
greeted  by  the  boys,  who  seemed  even  more  delighted  than  myself. 
The  fact  that  I  was  now  an  Army  officer,  and  would  have  com- 
mand of  men  old  enough  to  be  my  father  or  grandfather  was  cer- 
tainly enough  to  inflate  the  vanity  of  any  youth. 

Going  to  Washington,  I  had  a  full-dress  uniform  made  by  Wall 
&  Stevens,  on  Pennsylvania  avenue,  and  dressed  up  in  it  and 
strutted  around  the  hotels  and  up  to  the  State  Department,  ex- 
hibiting myself  to  my  friends,  who  had  not  heard  from  me  for 
months.  I  attended  President  Lincoln's  reception.  He  halted 
me,  shook  hands,  and  asked  when  I  had  entered  the  Army,  my 
rank,  etc. 

Returning  to  my  regiment,  I  served  a  few  weeks  on  picket  duty, 
and  was  then  ordered  on  patrol  duty  at  Alexandria.  There  I  was 
obliged  to  stop  every  soldier  I  met,  and  require  him  to  show  his 
pass  if  he  had  one,  and  if  he  had  none,  place  him  under  arrest,  and 
take  him  to  the  old  slave  pen,  which,  before  the  war,  was  used  as 
an  enclosure  for  negroes,  where  they  were  bought  and  sold  like 
animals.  After  we  had  gathered  in  a  large  number,  an  examina- 
tion would  be  held,  when  those  found  to  be  deserters  would  be  re- 
turned to  their  regiments,  to  be  court-martialed,  and  likely  shot. 

Sixteenth  Virginia  Regiment,  October  22,  1862. 

Headquarters  Camp  Close, 

Lieut.  Geo.  A.  Armes.  Company  F,  has  authority  to  arrest  and 
bring  to  camp  any  man  belonging  to  this  regiment. 

By  order  of 

JAMES  T.  CLOSE, 

Col.  Commanding. 


67 

In  addition  to  my  duties  as  Assistant  Provost  Marshal,  I  was 
assigned  to  duty  as  a  recruiting  officer,  and  furnished  the  follow- 
ing pass : 

Alexandria,  Va.,  September  23,  1862. 

Headquarters  Mil.  Gov. 
Guards  and  Patrols : 

Pass  Lieut.  Geo.  A.  Armes  of  Company  B,  Sixteenth  Virginia 
Vols.,  freely  in  and  out  of  Alexandria  for  recruiting  purposes. 

(Signed)         JNO.  P.  CLOUGH, 
Brig.-Gen.,  Mil.  Gov.,  Alexandria,  Va. 

While  on  recruiting  service  I  asked  my  Lieutenant-Colonel  for 
a  letter  of  recommendation,  as  I  desired  to  be  transferred  to  the 
cavalry,  and  the  following  is  a  copy  of  the  letter  he  gave  me  in 
support  of  my  application,  the  original  being  still  in  my  pos- 
session : 


n  * 

•^koui      *-lcn~     ®<n*vu.     £T<tt 
U/7rtJ.      <$7y  t     Aia.4         C 


68 

Soon  after,  my  regiment  being  required  to  perform  outpost  duty, 
I  returned  to  it,  and  for  several  days  thereafter  had  some  lively 
experiences.  It  was  a  difficult  matter  for  an  officer  to  get  away, 
even  for  a  few  hours,  but  I  procured  a  pass,  which  I  still  have  in 
my  possession.  The  following  is  a  copy  : 

Headquarters  Sixteenth  Virginia  Vols., 

December  29,  1862. 
Guards  and  Patrols: 

Pass  Lieut.  George  A.  Armes  to  Washington  and  return  at  2 
o'clock,  December  30,  1862. 

CAPT.  F.  M.  MALONE, 

Commanding  Co.  A. 
S.  W.  SNYDER,  Lieut.-Col. 

As  the  original  orders  will  be  of  interest  to  look  over  as  the 
years  roll  on,  we  reproduce  a  few  of  them  to  remind  our  soldier 
readers  of  the  days  of  old  on  the  tented  field.  The  following  is  a 
copy,  in  my  possession,  of  a  privileged  pass  just  before  going  on 
outpost  duty  with  my  regiment : 

Headquarters  Sumner's  Division, 

Camp  California,  December  I,  1862. 

Lieut.  George  A.  Armes,  the  bearer  of  this,  is  acting  under  the 
authority  of  the  General  Commanding  the  "Division/'    He  is  not 
to  be  molested  by  anyone  or  interfered  with. 
By  order  of 

GENERAL  HETNTZLEMAN. 
J.  W.  TAYLOR,  Capt,  U.  S.  A.,  A.  Adg. 


CHAPTER  111. 

To  those  on  duty  there  during  the  winter  of  1863  it  is  not  neces- 
sary to  describe  the  way  soldiers  lived  in  and  around  the  city  of 
Washington,  but  as  thirty-eight  years  have  rolled  by,  the  new 
generation  will  no  doubt  read  with  interest  a  brief  description  of 
the  soldier  boys,  who,  ragged  and  dirty,  grew  fat  and  hearty  and 
appeared  to  enjoy  life. 

Every  day  there  were  detailed  from  each  company  from  four  to 
fifteen  men,  according  to  the  numerical  strength  fitted  for  duty, 
These  were  provided  with  from  one  to  three  days'  rations,  and 
marched  to  Brigade  or  Division  headquarters,  inspected,  then 
marched  to  the  front  line,  and  placed  from  six  to  ten  yards  apart, 
where  they  dug  holes  in  the  ground  in  which  to  remain  for  pro- 
tection. Some  fifty  or  100  yards  in  front  of  this  line  would  be  the 
vidette  line  of  pickets,  hid  behind  anything  that  would  afford  shel- 
ter from  the  enemies'  bullets,  and  the  "Johnnies"  were  always 
looking  for  a  chance  to  slip  between  the  pickets  and  surprise  those 
in  camp,  who  were  resting  and  waiting  their  turn  to  go  to  the 
front. 

There  was  a  reserve  detachment  of  from  fifty  to  1 00  men  be- 
tween the  camp  and  picket  line,  ready  to  deploy  to  the  right  or 
left,  if  necessary,  in  case  the  two  lines  in  front  were  driven  back ; 
so  those  in  camp  were  not  liable  to  be  surprised.  While  on  this 
duty  neither  officers  nor  men  were  allowed  to  close  their  eyes 
day  or  night,  the  penalty  being  death  if  caught  asleep. 

Hard  tack,  a  little  coffee  and  fat  bacon  constituted  the  rations. 
As  the  men  on  this  duty  were  compelled  to  stand,  walk  or  sit,  often 
in  the  mud  or  snow,  for  twenty-four  hours,  and  as  each  one  had  to 
perform  this  duty  every  two  or  three  days,  the  reader  will  per- 
ceive that  there  was  not  much  fun  in  doing  outpost  duty. 

Soon  after  the  Sixteenth  Virginia  was  mustered  out,  and  July 
t,  1863,  I  was  appointed  Second  Lieutenant  in  the  Invalid  Corps. 
This  Corps  was  composed  of  men  who  had  been  wounded  or  par- 

(69) 


tially  disabled  and  incapacitated  for  active  service  in  the  field. 
They  were  put  on  duty  in  cities  and  in  the  interior,  taking  the 
places  of  able-bodied  soldiers,  who  were  sent  to  the  front  for  active 
service. 

The  following  is  a  copy  of  the  first  order  I  received  after  being 
transferred  to  the  Invalid  Corps,  enclosing  my  commission  as 
Second  Lieutenant : 

Provost  Marshal  General's  Office, 

Washington,  D.  C,  July  2,  1863. 
Second  Lieut.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 

Invalid  Corps: 

Sir — Enclosed  you  will  see  your  appointment  in  the  Invalid 
Corps.  You  will  immediately  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  this 
communication  to  rne.  If  you  accept  the  appointment,  send  your 
acceptance,  with  the  oath,  etc.,  to  the  Adjutant-General,  U.  S.  A., 
Washington,  D.  C.,  as  your  appointment  requires.  You  will  put 
yourself  in  uniform  as  quickly  as  possible,  and  hold  yourself  in 
readiness  to  obey  special  orders  from  the  War  Department,  which 
will  be  sent  you  in  a  few  days. 

Upon  receiving  your  orders,  you  will  acknowledge  their  re- 
ceipt, and  will  report  to  me,  in  writing,  your  arrival  at  your  sta- 
tion. I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         RICH.  H.  RUSH, 
Col.  and  Asst.  to  Prov.  Marshal  Gen. 

I  at  once  reported  to  Captain  Anderson  [now  Brigadier-Gen- 
eral, U.  S.  A.,  who  so  distinguished  himself  in  the  Philippine  war] 
for  duty  at  the  new  camp  on  Meridian  Hill,  between  Fourteenth 
and  Fifteenth  streets,  about  one  mile  north  of  the  White  House. 
The  Captain's  command  then  consisted  of  six  privates  and  one 
Lieutenant,  besides  myself.  Our  camp  was  composed  of  three 
tents,  but  the  next  day  the  men  began  to  report,  and  we  soon 
made  a  fine  appearance,  having  a  regular  Army  officer  to  com- 
mand us. 

Orders  were  freely  issued,  which  we  had  to  obey  to  the  letter. 
Within  ten  days  after  I  reported  we  were  strictly  complying  with 
them. 

A  few  of  the  old  soldiers  who  were  fond  of  their  "bitters"  would 
occasionally  be  caught  out  of  camp,  unable  to  perform  their  duties. 


It  is  hardly  necessary  to  explain  to  the  soldier  readers  of  this  book 
that  they  would  get  drunk,  because  such  a  charge  against  an  old 
soldier  is  only  of  the  past,  but  Captain  Anderson  was  obliged  to 
issue  the  following  order,  which  had  a  good  effect : 

Special  Orders, 

No.  3. 

A  Regimental  Garrison  Court-Martial,  to  consist  of  Capt.  Geo. 
P.  Sherwood,  Eleventh  Company,  First  Batt,  I.  C;  Second  Lieut. 
William  R.  Tillotson,  Fourth  Company,  First  Batt.,  I.  C.;  Second 
Lieut.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  First  Company,  First  Batt.,  I.  C.  Lieut. 
George  A.  Armes  will  be  Recorder  of  the  Court,  which  will  con- 
vene at  9  o'clock  A.  IVL,  July  15,  1863,  or  as  soon  thereafter  as 
practical,  for  the  trial  of  Privates  Edward  Herman  and  Frederick 
Spintie,  both  of  Third  Company,  Second  Battalion,  Invalid  Corps, 
and  such  other  prisoners  as  may  be  properly  brought  before  it. 

By  order  of 

CAPT.  T.  M.  ANDERSON, 
Twelfth  U.  S.  Inf.,  Com'd'g  I.  C. 
(Signed)         F.  R.  RICE,  Acting  Adjutant  Invalid  Corps. 

On  July  1 8,  1863,  four  companies  were  ordered  to  Philadelphia, 
under  command  of  Major  Sewell,  and  we  had  not  been  established 
in  camp  in  one  of  the  beautiful  parks  of  the  "Quaker  City"  but  a 
short  time  before  we  were  ordered  to  Hartford,  Conn.,  where  we 
went  into  camp  with  several  other  companies.  We  then  furnished 
men  to  guard  the  substitutes,  and  gave  the  soldiers  who  had  not 
been  to  the  field  an  opportunity  to  have  a  little  active  life. 

On  the  eve  of  July  25,  1863,  I  attended  a  party  given  by  Miss 
Davis,  and  was  so  highly  entertained  that  I  did  not  reach  my  tent 
until  after  12  o'clock,  and  then  forgot  to  notify  my  sergeant  to  call 
me  in  the  morning  in  time  to  attend  reveille,  which  I  missed,  and 
at  10  A.  M.  received  the  following  order  : 

Headquarters  Invalid  Corps, 

Hartford,  Conn.,  July  26,  1863. 
Second  Lieut.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 

Ninth  Company,  First  Battalion: 

Sir — You  are  ordered  to  report  yourself  in  arrest  in  your  quar- 
ters for  disobedience  of  orders.  You  will  send  your  sword  to  these 


72 

headquarters  immediately.     By  order  of 

MAJ.  F.  D.  SEWALL, 

Commanding. 
(Signed)         JAMES  A.  WEEKS, 

First  Lieut,  and  A.  A.  Adj. 
(Arrest  No.  5.) 

Note. — As  this  was  my  first  arrest  as  an  officer,  it  left  quite  an 
impression  upon  my  mind. 

After  two  days'  close  arrest  I  was  released  and  reprimanded  by 
my  new  commanding  officer,  who  put  on  the  airs  of  a  Second 
Lieutenant  in  the  absence  of  his  General.  I  reported  for  duty  in 
time  to  comply  with  an  order,  and  was  glad  to  get  away  from  such 
a  martinet  as  Sewell.  He  was  superseded  by  Maj.  D.  K.  Ward- 
well,  and  we  broke  camp  under  orders,  Maj.  Wardwell  assuming 
command  of  our  battalion. 

After  reporting  at  Boston,  we  were  ordered  to  go  into  camp  at 
Wendham,  about  twenty  miles  from  Boston,  where  Major  Ward- 
well  took  command,  First  Lieut.  Urbon  A.  Woodbury  command- 
ing my  company,  there  not  being  any  Captain  assigned. 

The  following  is  a  list  of  the  officers  of  the  First  Battalion,  In- 
valid Corps,  commanded  by  Maj.  D.  K.  Wardwell,  stationed  at 
Portsmouth,  N.  H.,  during  the  month  of  August,  1863  : 

David  K.  Wardwell  (Major),  July  23,  1863,  commanding  Camp 
Fry;  David  T.  Corbin  (Captain),  June  3,  1863,  commanding  Sev- 
enth Company;  Geo.  P.  Sherwood  (Captain),  July  3,  1863,  com- 
manding Eleventh  Company;  Harry  W.  Benton  (First  Lieuten- 
ant), June  13,  1863,  A.  A.  O.  M.  and  A.  A.  C.  S. ;  Urbon  Wood- 
bury  (First  Lieutenant),  June  17,  1863,  commanding  Ninth  Com- 
pany since  organization ;  Geo.  A.  Armes  (Second  Lieutenant), 
July  i,  1863,  Acting  Adjt.,  assigned  to  Eleventh  Company. 

Headquarters  A.  A.  P.  M.  General's  Office, 

Slate  of  New  Hampshire, 
Concord,  N.  H.,  August  27,  1863. 

I  certify  that  the  within-named  officers  are  officers  of  the  First 
Battalion  Invalid  Corps,  and  stationed  at  Portsmouth,  N.  H. 
(Signed)         O.  A.  MACK, 

Major,  U.  S.  Army, 

A.  D.  C.  and  A.  A.  P.  M.  G. 

Station  A,  N.  H. 


73 

A  copy  of  the  above  order  was  furnished  each  officer  of  the 
battalion  for  the  purpose  of  showing  authority  on  the  part  of  the 
Paymaster  to  pay  him. 

While  in  Portsmouth  our  duties  were  principally  to  guard  the 
substitutes,  who  were  furnished  by  the  drafted  citizens  of  that  part 
of  the  State,  and  who  received  from  $500  to  $2000  each  for  taking 
the  places  of  the  party  drafted,  and  released  from  being  sent  to  the 
field  as  soon  as  his  substitute  was  accepted. 

From  the  moment  the  substitute  was  uniformed,  or  received  his 
money  from  the  party  whose  place  he  had  taken,  he  was  at  once 
made  a  prisoner,  in  one  sense  of  the  word,  as  he  was  placed  under 
guard  in  some  secure  building  or  camp,  with  a  sentry  over  him 
with  loaded  musket,  and  orders  to  shoot  or  kill  anyone  who  at- 
tempted to  escape. 

After  twenty-five  or  fifty  substitutes  had  been  collected,  they 
were  bunched  together,  a  strong  guard  put  around  them,  and  sent 
to  their  regiments  in  the  field.  So  it  was  an  impossibility  for  one 
tc  escape,  unless  through  the  treachery  of  the  guard  or  a  non- 
commissioned officer,  who  would  possibly,  but  very  rarely,  accept 
from  $100  to  $500  as  a  bribe  and  let  a  man  go. 

After  being  assigned  to  their  companies  and  regiments,  and 
mixed  in  with  the  volunteers,  who  carefully  watched  all  their 
movements,  it  was  next  to  an  impossibility  for  them  to  get  away, 
unless  by  deserting  to  the  enemy  from  the  advanced  guard,  which 
often  occurred.  Such  men  were  of  little  or  no  use,  as  they  could 
not  be  trusted  anywhere,  and  it  required  much  of  the  time  of  good 
soldiers,  taken  from  important  duties,  to  watch  them. 

Camp  Fry  was  a  beautiful  place  in  summer,  terraced  on  three 
sides  with  large  shade  trees,  and  on  the  fourth  by  a  lake  or  pond, 
full  of  fish  and  good  row  or  sailboats.  As  I  ranked  Lieutenant 
Reeder,  I  felt  that  he  could  not  assume  authority  over  me  in  the 
absence  of  the  Major,  although  he  was  Acting  Adjutant  of  the 
battalion.  So,  as  Officer  of  the  Day,  I  obtained  a  larger  tent 
from  the  Quartermaster  for  the  guard  than  they  had  been  in  the 
habit  of  using,  and  fixed  it  up.  When  Lieutenant  Reeder  found 
out  that  I  had  taken  such  a  liberty  without  first  consulting  him, 
he  ordered  me  to  take  it  back.  I  asked  his  reason.  He  replied 


74 

the  order  was  sufficient  without  any  reason.     I  then  demanded 
the  order  in  writing,  which  he  furnished  at  once  as  follows : 

Headquarters  Invalid  Corps, 

Camp  Fry,  August  n,  1863. 
Lieutenant: 

You  will  assemble  your  police  guard  at  once  and  have  them 
take  the  guard  tent  back  to  the  Q.  At.  The  Major  Commanding 
desires  me  to  say  that  hereafter  you  will  obey  all  orders  coming 
through  me  without  replying  back  or  asking  for  their  reason.  The 
tent  will  be  taken  down  under  your  own  superintendence. 
Very  respectfully, 

(Signed)         F.  W.  REEDER, 

Lt.  and  Asst.  Adj. 
To  LIEUT.  ARMES, 

Officer  of  the  Day. 

The  order  was  at  once  carried  into  effect  by  me,  but  upon  the 
return  of  the  Major,  I  appealed  to  him  to  know  if  his  Adjutant 
had  a  right  to  use  his  name  and  issue  such  an  order  without  any 
cause  during  his  absence.  He  sustained  his  Adjutant,  and  told 
me  that  a  soldier  should  never  question  or  disobey  an  order  when 
given  by  order  of  his  commanding  officer  through  his  Adjutant. 
1  accepted  it  as  good  advice,  and  as  Lieutenant  Reeder  was  older 
than  I,  and  had  been  in  service  in  the  German  Army,  I  copied 
after  his  ways  to  a  great  extent,  but  as  he  was  a  good  and  strict 
soldier,  we  were  always  friends  after  that. 

While  on  duty  in  Portsmouth  I  made  quite  a  number  of  warm 
friends  of  the  best  class,  having  preferred  from  childhood  no  asso- 
ciates at  all  unless  of  good  standing.  Among  the  most  pleasant 
families  were  the  Wendals,  Thompsons  and  General  Whipple 
and  J.  R.  Stanwood,  the  latter  having  kept  up  a  correspondence 
with  me  for  years. 

Having  been  one  of  the  military  escort  at  the  funeral  of  Major- 
General  Whipple,  and  not  meeting  his  family  until  ordered  to 
Portsmouth,  I  took  a  great  interest  in  the  two  boys,  Willie  and 
David,  who  used  to  go  boating  and  fishing  with  me.  Willie,  or 
Chas.  W.,  as  he  was  called  by  some,  went  to  West  Point  the  next 
year,  and  was  afterward  assigned  to  the  artillery  and  latterly  to 


75 

the  ordnance.  David  I  met  in  Washington  occasionally  after  he 
became  a  Lieutenant  in  the  Marine  Corps.  He  married  a  Miss 
Colgate  of  Washington,  who  has  since  died,  and  was  greatly 
affected  by  her  death,  as  they  were  very  devoted.  A  better-hearted 
or  more  popular  officer  did  not  belong  to  the  Corps. 

Miss  Lizzie,  their  sister,  was  one  of  the  most  cultivated  young 
ladies  I  met  in  the  State  of  New  Hampshire.  She  accompanied 
us  on  one  of  our  excursions  around  to  old  Fort  Constitution,  to- 
wards Rye  Beach,  in  a  sailboat,  where  we  fished  for  mackerel,  or, 
at  least,  I  attempted  to ;  but  as  I  became  so  seasick,  I  did  not  make 
much  headway.  On  our  return  the  tide  was  going  out,  and  we 
boys  had  to  take  turns  at  rowing.  As  I  had  only  obtained  permis- 
sion to  be  absent  until  retreat,  I  was  more  than  doubly  anxious 
to  reach  shore,  and  worked  until  my  hands  were  in  a  terribly  blis- 
tered condition ;  but,  in  spite  of  my  exertions  to  be  on  time,  I  did 
not  reach  camp  until  one  hour  after  retreat.  Of  course,  I  had 
been  reported  absent  to  my  commanding  officer,  and  upon  arri- 
val I  at  once  reported  to  the  Major.  He  said,  "Go  to  your  quar- 
ters in  arrest,  and  Til  teach  you  a  lesson  about  shirking  your 
duty.'* 

"Major,"  I  beg-an,  but  he  interrupted  me  with,  "Not  a  word, 
sir," 

"Will  you  let  me  explain?"  I  insisted. 

"No,"  he  answered;  "obey  my  orders  at  once,"  which  I  did, 
though  the  pain  of  my  blistered  hands,  and  suspense  for  my  sec- 
ond military  arrest  (arrest  No.  6)  for  what  I  could  not  help,  kept 
me  awake  all  night.  As  soon  as  I  thought  he  was  up,  I  applied 
for  an  interview,  which  he  approved,  to  take  place  at  2  o'clock 
P.  M.,  and  every  hour  of  that  time  seemed  a  day.  When  we  met 
I  explained  how  the  tide  went  out,  and  that  instead  of  our  boat 
sailing  back,  we  had  to  row  it,  and  that  I  used  every  endeavor 
possible  to  return  on  time,  showing  him  my  hands  as  evidence  of 
my  truthfulness. 

He  let  me  off  with  a  reprimand,  saying  that  by  right  no  excuse 
should  be  taken,  but  as  this  was  the  first  offense  he  would  indulge 
me  this  time ;  I  must  be  careful  in  the  future,  however.  I  thanked 
him,  and  went  to  my  quarters,  and  I  do  not  believe  I  ever  asked 
permission  to  go  out  of  camp  again,  feeling  ashamed  to  call  on 


76 

any  of  my  friends  or  go  to  General  Whipple's  house.  After  that 
the  boys  came  to  my  camp  to  see  me,  seemed  to  have  a  great  sym- 
pathy for  my  misfortune,  and  wanted  to  take  the  blame  upon 
themselves,  but  as  the  matter  had  been  settled,  I  did  not  attempt 
to  bring  it  up  again. 

I  afterwards  found  my  Major  to  be  one  of  the  best-hearted  men 
in  the  service,  and  when  I  left  him  he  explained  that  what  he  did 
was  for  my  own  good,  and  that  if  I  had  been  his  own  son  he  could 
not  have  taken  a  greater  interest  in  me. 

Young  Stanwood  I  have  not  heard  from  for  years. 

During  the  month  of  September,  1863,  Lieutenant  Woodbury 
and  our  company  were  ordered  to  West  Lebanon,  N.  H.,  where 
a  drafting  station  was  established,  and  Captain  Pike  placed  on 
duty  as  Provost  Marshal.  We  fixed  a  nice  little  camp  near  the 
depot,  and  our  duties  were  to  place  substitutes  under  immediate 
guard  after  being  brought  to  our  camp,  where  they  were  held 
until  we  would  get  a  squad  of  forty  or  fifty,  which  were  put  in  a 
car,  under  close  guard,  and  taken  to  Concord,  N.  H.  There  they 
were  to  be  uniformed  and  drilled  and  prepared  for  the  field.  My 
principal  duties  were  to  take  them  through,  and  it  required  extra 
vigilance  on  my  part  to  manage  these  desperate  characters,  for 
whom  I  was  held  responsible.  Many  tried  to  bribe  the  guard, 
paying  from  $500  to  STOOD  to  be  allowed  to  slip  by,  but  in  most 
every  instance  I  got  the  sentry,  though  not  always  the  bounty- 
jumper.  We  punished  the  bribe-takers  so  severely  when  caught 
that  very  few  dared  to  run  the  risk  of  being  bought  off  by  substi- 
tutes. As  my  company  was  composed  of  intelligent  and  trusty 
men,  and  Lieutenant  Woodbury  (a  married  man)  preferred  to 
remain  in  camp  most  of  the  time  and  attend  to  the  sending  off  and 
the  taking  care  of  the  substitutes,  it  gave  me  all  the  time  I  wished 
to  ride  and  drive  over  the  country,  going  to  the  White  Mountains 
and  every  place  of  interest,  drawing  my  pay  every  month  being 
one  of  my  most  important  duties. 

I  became  very  much  attached  to  Lieutenant  \Yoodbury,  who 
has  since  been  Governor  of  Vermont,  and  we  got  along  nicely. 
He  was  a  splendid  officer,  whom  I  respected  and  obeyed  to  the 
letter.  And  he  indulged  me  in  everyday  reasonable.  While  at 


West  Lebanon  I  made  many  acquaintances,  and  was  invited  to 
parties  and  sociables  continuously.  I  became  very  much  attracted 
by  Miss  Julia,  daughter  of  Richard  B.  Kimball,  who  was  visiting 
her  aunt,  Mrs.  Haddock.  Among  other  families  who  made  me 
feel  at  home  were  Dr.  Crosby's,  at  Hanover ;  Mrs.  Lyman's,  near 
White  River  Junction ;  Colonel  Hosley's  and  Captain  Pyke's. 

Lieutenant  Woodbury  being  promoted  to  a  Captaincy,  and  the 
quota  of  the  district  of  which  we  had  charge  having  been  furnished, 
our  company  was  ordered,  during  the  month  of  November,  to 
Concord,  N.  H.,  where  the  rest  of  the  regiment  were  on  duty,  un- 
der the  command  of  Colonel  Wardwell,  who  had  been  promoted 
to  Lieutenant-Colonel,  our  battalion  numbering  the  Thirteenth 
Regiment,  and  my  company  F,  and  my  duties  and  work  com- 
menced in  earnest.  My  first  detail  for  a  large  and  responsible 
command  took  me  away  from  the  regiment  to  the  front,  as  per 
following  order : 

Headquarters  Supt.  Volunteer  Recruiting  Service, 
Special  Orders,  Concord,  N.  H.,  November  23,  1863. 

No.  87. 

A  party  of  one  hundred  and  seventy-six  (176)  volunteer  recruits 
will  proceed  at  9  o'clock  A.  M.  tomorrow  to  Long  Island,  Boston 
harbor,  thence  by  vessel  to  join  the  Second  Regiment  N.  H.  Vol- 
unteers at  Point  Lookout,  Md.,  or  wherever  else  the  regiment 
may  be. 

Geo.  A.  Armes,  Second  Lieutenant  "F"  Company,  Thirteenth 
Regiment,  Invalid  Corps;  Amos  B.  Holden,  Second  Lieutenant 
"D"  Company,  First  Battalion,  Heavy  Artillery;  Corporal  John 
Fowler,  Company  "D,"  First  Battalion;  Private  A.  H.  Jacobs, 
Heavy  Artillery;  Private  E.  R.  Preston,  Massachusetts  Volun- 
teers, will  accompany  the  party  to  its  destination,  and  will  return 
to  rendezvous  when  they  have  been  delivered  to  the  commanding 
officer  of  the  regiment. 

One  day's  cooked  rations  will  be  issued  to  the  party  at  this,  de- 
pot, and  rations  for  the  remainder  of  the  journey  will  be  drawn  at 
Long  Island,  Boston  harbor,  by  the  commanding  officer. 

Transportation  will  be  furnished  by  Captain  Holmes,  Asst. 
Quartermaster  at  this  post. 

The  attention  of  the  officer  commanding  the  party  is  called  to 
982-3-4  revised  regulations,  edition  of  1861,  the  provisions  of 
which  will  be  strictly  complied  with,  report  to  be  made  to  the 
commanding  officer  of  this  rendezvous. 


78 

By  order  of 

BRIG.-GEN.  EDWARD  HINKS. 
SOLON  A.  CARTER, 

Capt.  and  Asst.  Adj. -Gen. 

While  I  was  complying  with  the  above  order  the  detachment 
raised  a  subscription  of  $50,  with  the  request  that  with  it  I  pur- 
chase a  sword  in  remembrance  of  the  Twelfth  N.  H.  I  felt  very 
proud  of  my  popularity  with  the  men,  but  it  was  considered  a 
breach  of  Army  discipline  by  my  commanding  officer,  Colonel 
Wardwell,  who  thought  it  would  be  a  feather  in  his  cap  to  take 
official  notice  of  it.  I  was  therefore  placed  in  close  arrest  (arrest 
No.  /)  and  charged  with  conduct  prejudicial  to  good  order  and 
military  discipline,  but  after  a  thorough  investigation  I  was  re- 
leased without  a  trial  by  order  of  General  Hinks. 

Lieutenant  Woodbury,  after  being  mustered  out,  returned  to 
his  home  at  Burlington,  Vt.,  where  he  became  manager  of  the 
Booth  Lumber  Co.,  was  elected  mayor  of  his  city  during  several 
terms,  then  Lieutenant-Governor,  and  finally  Governor.  We 
have  kept  up  a  correspondence  for  years  and  visited  and  revisited 
each  other's  families. 

I  present  the  reader  with  a  few  extracts  from  some  of  his  private 
letters,  having  obtained  his  consent  to  my  making  them  public : 

Concord,  N.  H.,  March  24,  1864. 
Friend  Armes: 

Yours  of  the  2ist  received  today.  I  was  glad  to  hear  from  you 
and  to  learn  that  you  had  arrived  safely  at  home.  You  seem  to 
think  that  you  would  rather  be  here  than  in  Washington.  I  do 
not  wonder,  for  of  all  the  places  this  side  of  that  "abode  of  wicked- 
ness" I  detest  Washington. 

But  we  are  soldiers,  and  shall  go  cheerfully  where  we  are 
ordered.  *  *  * 

I  am  as  much  pleased  with  the  change  of  the  designation  of  the 
Corps  as  you  are.  We  are  progressing  finely  here;  expect  to  be 
examined  every  day.  The  board  is  in  Boston. 

All  send  regards  to  you.    Write  again  when  convenient. 
Yours,  truly, 

(Signed)         U.  A.  WOODBURY, 

Captain?  etc, 


79 


GOV.  WOODBURY  AND    FAMILY. 


8o 

Concord,  N.  H.,  May  26,  1864. 
Friend  Armes: 

I  received  your  welcome  letter  last  week,  and  was  glad  to  hear 
from  you  and  to  learn  that  you  had  passed  the  examination  un- 
scathed. Sergeant  McKillipp  got  back  last  night. 

He  does  not  know  whether  he  will  be  commissioned  or  not.  I 
hope  he  will,  for  he  is  a  good  fellow.  Henderson,  Wallace  and 
Schregot's  time,  will  soon  be  up. 

Barnard  is  at  Philadelphia  school  applying  for  a  commission  in 
a  colored  regiment.  Quite  a  number  of  the  old  men  have  been 
discharged  by  reason  of  expiration  of  term. 

He  *'***#**** 

I  am  in  command  of  the  camp  now,  and  am  having  quite  a  soft 
thing  of  it.  I  have  had  quite  a  number  of  inquiries  for  you  from 
the  softer  (?)  sex.  They  send  their  regards  to  you  generally.  * 
*  *  *  *  '  Yours  truly, 

(Signed)         U.  A.  WOODBURY, 

Captain,  etc. 

Upon  arriving  at  Long  Island,  General  Diven  gave  us  a  close 
inspection,  and  after  three  days'  preparations,  we  embarked  on  a 
vessel,  which  landed  us  at  Point  Lookout,  Md.,  where  these  sub- 
stitutes were  immediately  assigned  to  companies  in  the  regiment, 
where  the  old  soldiers  watched  them  so  closely  it  was  impossible 
for  them  to  escape,  but  were  forced  into  the  front  ranks  and  taught 
their  duties. 

Men  were  treated  very  much  as  horses  and  cattle ;  they  were 
gathered  up  from  all  over  the  country  wherever  they  could  be 
found,  put  on  cars  or  vessels  and  hurried  to  the  Army  of  the 
Potomac.  The  death  of  a  soldier  was  so  common  that  no  one 
seemed  to  give  any  more  thought  to  it  than  if  he  were  an  animal, 
and  as  fast  as  one  died  others  supplied  their  places;  but  such  is 
war. 

While  stationed  in  Concord,  N.  H.,  I  not  only  met  a  great  many 
acquaintances  socially,  but  made  myself  very  popular  with  the 
pastors,  who  professed  to  be  very  much  gratified  with  my  bring- 
ing my  soldiers  to  the  churches.  The  following  is  a  sample  of  the 
passes  which  had  to  be  approved  by  my  commanding  officer  before 
I  could  attend  church  : 


8i 

Headquarters  Co.  F,  Thirteenth  Regiment,  Invalid  Corps, 

February  7,  1864. 

Pass  the  bearer,  Geo.  A.  Armes,  Company  F,  Thirteenth  Regi- 
ment, I.  C,  to  church  and  back  to  camp,  till  7  o'clock  P.  M.,  for 
the  purpose  of  going  to  church  with  thirty-six  men. 
(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Commanding  Company. 
Approved: 

D.  T.  CORBIN, 

Capt.  Commanding  Thirteenth  Regt.,  I.  C., 
Commanding  Camp. 

Being  on  such  friendly  terms  with  all  the  officers  on  duty  at 
Concord,  and  being  anxious  to  go  in  the  cavalry  arm  of  the  service, 
I  procured  the  following  recommendation,  but  was  ordered  to  an- 
other station,  however,  before  an  opportunity  was  offered  to  use 
it,  but  it  shows  my  standing  among  the  officers  with  whom  I 
served : 

Headquarters  General  Rendezvous, 

Concord,  N.  H.,  February  20,  1864. 
To  His  Excellency, 

Joseph  A.  Gilmore, 

Governor  of  the  State  of  New  Hampshire: 
We,  the  undersigned  officers,  do  cheerfully  recommend  Lieut. 
Ceo.  A.  Armes,  Company  F,  Thirteenth  Regiment,  U.  S.  Invalid 
Corps,  as  an  officer  of  good  habits,  and  industrious  in  any  capacity 
in  which  he  may  be  employed,  as  an  officer. 

He  wishes  a  commission  in  New  Hampshire  cavalry.  We  would 
be  most  happy  if  you  can  grant  his  request,  he  being  well  ac- 
quainted with  the  country  of  Virginia  and  other  States  in  the 
South,  would  prove  himself  very  useful. 

H.  FEAR  TNG,  Col.  ist  Regt.,  N.  H.  Cav. 

SOLON  A.  CARTER,  Capt.  and  A.  A.  A.  G. 

WM.  S.  RYAN,  Capt.  i3th  Regt.,  I.  C. 

A.  G.  CUMMTNGS,  Capt.  1 3th  Regt.,  N.  H.  Vols.  Inf. 

GEO.  H.  CHANDLER,  Maj.  gth  N.  H.  Vols. 

JNO.  A.  CUMMTNGS,  Capt.  6th  N.  H.  Vols. 

L.  P.  WILSON,  ist  Lieut.  131)1  N.  H.  Vols. 

J.  B.  FAY,  ist  Lieut.  5th  N.  H.  Vols. 

T.  A.  RIPLEY,  Capt.  1 4th  N.  H.  Vols. 

C.  H.  CARTER,  ist  Lieut.  N.  H.  Vols. 

J.  S.  DUGIN,  Capt.  Com.  7th  Regt.  N.  H.  Vols. 


82 

Lieutenant  Armes  has  been  well  spoken  of  and  highly  recom- 
mended by  Gen.  S.  P.  Heintzleman,  U.  S.  A.,  under  whose  notice 
he  has  performed  meritorious  service. 

EDW.  W.  HINKS, 

Brig.-Gen.  N.  H.  Vols. 

Lieutenant  Armes  is  well  acquainted  with  the  cavalry  drill  and 
service,  and,  in  my  opinion,  ought  to  have  a  situation  in  the  First 
N.  H.  Cavalry. 

M.  CARR, 
Lieut.-Col.  Second  Regt.  N.  H.  Vols. 

I  am  acquainted  with  Lieutenant  Armes,  and  have  no  doubt 
that  he  is  competent  to  fill  a  position  as  Captain  or  Lieutenant  in 
the  cavalry. 

W.  H.  DONOHUE, 

Col.  Tenth  N.  H.  Vols. 

Upon  my  return  from  Boston  and  other  places  where  I  had 
visited  I  received  orders  relieving  me  from  duty  at  Concord  and 
directing  me  to  report  for  duty  at  Washington. 

I  immediately  packed  up,  bade  friends  good-bye  and  landed  in 
Washington,  where  I  was  assigned  to  duty  with  the  Nineteenth 
V.  R.  C.  Regiment,  Colonel  Dayton  commanding. 

A  letter  received  in  those  days  of  interest  now  is  the  following : 
Headquarters,  Camp  for  Drafted  Men, 

Concord,  N.  H.,  March  27,  1864. 

Dear  Lieutenant: 

I  received  your  letter  yesterday,  and  was  very  much  pleased  to 
hear  from  you.  I  suppose  you  often  thought  I  was  strict  with  my 
duties,  but  you  will  find  that  I  have  been  more  lenient  here  than 
I  would  be  in  Washington. 

You  can  tell  Colonel  Wlsewell  that  General  Hinks  says  that  our 
battalion  is  the  best  in  the  service,  and  was  never  in  finer  condi- 
tion than  at  present.  We  are  waiting  anxiously  to  receive  the 
order  to  proceed  to  Washington.  The  Board  of  Examination  has 
convened  at  Boston,  and  I  expect  that  our  officers  will  be  ordered 
before  it  for  examination  before  long.  Lieutenant  Benton  has  re- 
turned to  duty  as  Post  Adjutant.  General  Hinks  has  been  re- 
lieved and  ordered  to  General  Butler's  Department,  and  Colonel 
Fering  of  the  Eighth  N.  H.  is  Superintendent  of  Volunteer  Re- 
cruiting vService. 


83 

I  do  not  fear  the  duty  that  we  would  be  compelled  to  do  if  we 
got  to  Washington,  for  I  think  that  I  have  a  battalion  that  is  fully 
able  to  do  it.  They  may  talk  about  General  McClellan  holding 
secret  communication  with  General  Lee,  but  I  do  not  believe  it. 
He  is  as  loyal  a  man  and  as  good  a  General  as  there  is  on  the 
continent,  and  if  he  is  nominated  for  the  Presidency  there  is  no 
man  in  the  field  that  can  beat  him.  I  saw  several  of  your  lady 
friends  today,  and  they  send  you  their  kind  regards.  I  think  you 
will  find  it  more  difficult  to  get  back  to  Concord  than  to  get  away. 
We  have  enough  cavalrymen  here  now  to  make  five  companies. 
Major  Wyman  leaves  for  Washington  tomorrow,  to  be  gone  a 
few  days.  We  are  getting  along  very  well,  and  our  men  are  im- 
proving in  doing  guard  duty  every  day.  We  have  fine  weather 
here  now.  I  am,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         D.  K.  WARDWELL, 

Lieut-Col.,  U.  S.  A. 

The  three  following  recommendations  will  indicate  the  measures 
1  adopted  to  accomplish  my  desire  to  obtain  a  little  more  active 
service  at  the  front  before  the  rebellion  was  entirely  ended : 

To  Whom  It  May  Concern: 

The  bearer,  Lieut.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  is  a  particular  friend  of  mine. 
He  has  already  served  one  term  of  enlistment,  and  has  been 
wounded  three  times  in  the  service  of  his  country.  Upon  a  sur- 
geon's certificate  he  was  admitted  to  the  Veteran  Reserve  Corps, 
in  which  he  has  served  for  some  months,  part  of  the  time  as  Lieu- 
tenant under  me.  Having  sufficiently  recovered,  he  is  anxious  to 
return  again  to  active  service.  I  find  him  to  be  an  excellent  offi- 
cer and  a  gentleman,  and  if  there  is  a  probability  of  your  helping 
him  to  a  position,  your  kindness  will  be  greatly  appreciated. 
I  remain,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed)         F.  W.  H.  KENDRICK, 

Capt.  V.  R.  Corps. 
Washington,  D.  C, 

May  2,  1864. 

Note. — Captain  Kendrick  is  now  the  senior  Captain  of  the  Sev- 
enth U.  S.  Infantry. 


84 

Soldiers'  Rest, 

Washington,  D.  C,  May  4,  1864. 
Brigadier-General  Martindale: 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  recommend  to  your  consideration 
Lieut.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  formerly  of  the  Sixteenth  Virginia  Volun- 
teers, now  of  the  V.  R.  C. 

He  has  been  long  and  favorably  known  to  me  as  an  officer  and 
gentleman. 

I  remain,  General,  yours, 

(Signed)         E.  M.  CAMP, 
Capt.  and  Q.  A.  A.  D. 

My  duties  at  Concord  had  been  very  agreeable  from  the  fact 
that  I  was  kept  on  the  move  all  the  time,  which  suited  my  roving 
nature. 

I  reached  Washington,  D.  C.,  and  was  made  an  assistant  Pro- 
vost-Marshal and  inspector  of  new  troops  being  organized  and 
prepared  for  field  duty.  The  Veteran  Reserve  was  substituted 
as  a  new  name  for  the  Invalid  Corps. 

It  was  the  general  impression  in  May,  1864,  that  General  Grant 
would  march  into  Richmond  with  the  enormous  number  of  men 
at  his  disposal,  he  having  five  soldiers  to  every  Confederate,  each 
one  fully  armed  and  equipped,  with  plenty  to  eat,  while  the  Confed- 
erates were  poorly  armed  and  equipped  and  half  starved. 

The  fighting  at  the  front  had  begun  in  earnest,  and  the  heavy 
artillery,  which  had  been  quartered  in  forts  around  the  Capital,  so 
long  living  on  the  fat  of  the  land,  were  suddenly  hustled  to  the 
field.  The  daily  news  of  Grant's  victory  made  many  believe  that 
the  war  would  not  last  much  longer,  and  I  became  so  anxious  to 
get  to  the  front  that  I  requested  the  following  letter  of  introduc- 
tion to  General  Augur  from  Congressman  Whaley,  hoping  that 
he  might  be  able  to  find  some  way  to  get  me  to  the  front : 
House  of  Representatives, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  May  4,  1864. 
Maj.-Gen.  C.  C.  Augur: 

Sir — Please  give  Lieut.  G.  A.  Armes  an  interview. 
Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

K.  V.  WHALEY,  M.  C. 


85 

He  placed  the  following  endorsement  upon  the  letter,  which  I 
presented  to  General  Hardie  at  the  War  Department : 

Referred  to  Colonel  Hardie.  This  officer  can  be  spared  if  his 
services  are  deemed  necessary  at  the  front. 

(Signed)         C.  C.  AUGUR, 

Maj.-Gen. 

I  applied  to  General  Hardie  at  the  War  Department  May  16, 
1864,  for  an  appointment  for  service  at  the  front.  He  said  that 
he  did  not  know  of  any  way  to  oblige  me  just  then,  but  for  me  to 
call  the  next  day.  I  did  so,  and  he  informed  me  that  he  had  some 
very  important  dispatches  from  the  President  and  Secretary  of 
War  that  he  must  send  to  General  Grant  by  some  trusted  officer, 
that  he  could  not  think  of  anyone  who  could  perform  that  duty 
better  than  I,  and  that,  after  delivering  them  to  General  Grant,  I 
might  ask  him  to  assign  me  to  duty,  and  he  thought  the  General 
could  find  a  place  for  me.  He  then  issued  an  order  relieving  me 
from  duty  with  my  regiment,  and  the  next  morning  I  was  handed 
the  following: 

Headquarters,  Military  Department, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  May  18,  1864. 
Col.  R.  H.  Rush, 

Commander  of  First  Brigade,  V.  R.  C.: 

Colonel — The  Secretary  of  War  directs  that  Lieut.  Geo.  A. 
Armes,  V.  R.  C.,  at  Sherbourne  Barracks,  be  ordered  to  report 
immediately  for  duty  at  the  War  Department.  He  will  be  required 
to  proceed  to  the  Army  of  the  Potomac.  Please  direct  that  the 
notice  of  his  reporting  be  given  without  delay  to  these  head- 
quarters. By  order  of 

W.  N.  WISEWELL. 
THEODORE  McGowAN,  A.  A.  G. 

Within  one  hour  after  receiving  the  above  order  I  was  at  the 
War  Department.  General  Hardie  told  me  that  orders  had  been 
given  the  Quartermaster  to  let  me  select  any  horse  I  wished,  di- 
rected me  to  go  to  the  corral  and  take  my  choice,  giving  me 
instructions  to  return  and  see  the  Secretary  of  War  as  soon  as  I 
had  obtained  my  horse,  as  there  was  a  boat  ready  to  take  me  to 
Belle  Plain,  and  that  I  was  to  be  entrusted  with  very  important  dis- 
patches, orders  and  commissions  for  several  officers. 


Arriving  at  the  corral,  I  received  every  attention  and  assistance 
that  could  be  rendered  in  helping  select  a  horse.  As  there  were 
thousands  of  them,  it  took  me  some  time  to  make  a  selection.  At 
last  I  found  one,  a  beautiful  bay,  seven  or  eight  years  old,  as  sound 
and  as  active  as  a  horse  could  be,  which  I  soon  mounted  and 
dashed  up  to  the  War  Department,  reporting  to  General  Hardie, 
who  went  with  me  into  the  room  of  the  Secretary  of  War,  also 
handing  me  the  following  pass  in  his  own  handwriting : 


a r 


ti 

4 


Mr.  Stanton  handed  me  the  dispatches,  commissions,  etc.,  giv- 
ing me  verbal  instructions.  Finally,  he  took  me  by  the  hand  and 
wished  me  success.  I  was  soon  on  the  boat  and  on  my  way  to 
Belle  Plain,  where  a  special  escort  was  furnished  me  and  the  fol- 
lowing order: 


32.  ,  . 


.  ^Zfjitd  '\fatrt~tr*'    CC 

~ 


£0   ffiue^   <%2& 


lt^L<s 

/££^t^i^  <£."•   /&£, 


87 


Assistant  Adjutant  Gtntral. 


L^^^ 


Upon  arriving  at  Belle  Plain,  my  escort  was  found  waiting,  and 
we  galloped  on  into  Fredericksburg  the  next  day,  passing  thou- 
sands of  soldiers  en  route  to  the  front  to  replace  the  thousands  who 
only  a  few  hours  or  days  before  had  been  killed  or  wounded.  At 
Fredericksburg  wagon-load  after  wagon-load  of  dead  soldiers 
were  being  hauled  to  and  piled  along  the  edge  of  a  long  ditch  or 
trench,  where  the  bodies  were  being  wrapped  in  blankets,  placed 
side  by  side  in  the  bottom  of  the  trench  and  covered  up.  It  was 
indeed  a  sad  sight.  General  Shriver,  if  I  remember  right,  was  in 
command  there  at  that  time,  and  upon  my  reporting  to  him,  a 
fresh  escort  of  cavalry  was  furnished  me,  and  by  dark  on  the  2Oth 
of  May  I  was  at  General  Grant's  headquarters. 


DELIVERING  DESPATCHES  TO  GENERAL  GRANT 


88 

The  General  was  sitting  near  a  log  fire  in  front  of  his  tent,  talk- 
ing with  members  of  his  staff  and  General  Meade.  An  orderly 
announced  my  name  to  General  Rawlins,  who  was  chief  of  staff, 
who  informed  me  that  he  would  receive  any  papers  from  the  War 
Department.  I  declined  to  hand  them  to  him,  on  the  ground  that 
the  Secretary  of  War  had  directed  me  to  hand  them  to  General 
Grant  in  person.  He  then  called  General  Grant  over  to  the  front 
of  the  tent  and  introduced  me,  when  I  at  once  handed  him  the 
commissions,  dispatches,  etc.  He  handed  them  to  General  Raw- 
lins, who  opened  them,  and,  after  reading  the  contents,  passed 
them  back  to  the  General. 

I  was  requested  to  take  a  seat  by  the  camp  fire,  while  Generals 
Grant  and  Rawlins  had  quite  a  long  discussion,  after  which  they 
joined  the  party.  After  a  short  conversation  with  General  Raw- 
lins, I  told  him  I  would. like  to  remain  in  the  field,  explaining  my 
reasons.  He  then  acquainted  General  Grant  with  my  desire,  and 
the  latter  asked  General  Rawlins  where  he  could  assign  me.  Gen- 
eral Rawlins  recommended  either  Generals  Hancock  or  Sedgwick. 
General  Grant  then  said,  smilingly  : 

Order  him  to  report  to  General  Hanco.ck,  who  is  one  of  the  best 
generals  in  the  Army;  he  will  give  him  his  fill  of  fighting,  if  that  is 
what  he  is  looking  for. 

Bidding  General  Grant  good  evening,  I  went  with  General  Raw- 
lins to  his  tent,  and  he  placed  the  following  endorsement  upon 
my  W^ar  Department  order,  which  I  still  have : 


**     *  ^  t'+SryLt^^S&i***** 


As  soon  as  the  above  endorsement  was  written,  General  Raw- 
lins  sent  an  orderly  to  show  me  the  way  to  General  Hancock's 
headquarters.  There  I  reported  for  duty  in  compliance  with  the 
endorsement,  wrhich  General  Hancock  read,  and  at  once  called  his 
staff  and  introduced  them  to  me ;  at  the  same  time  he  called  his 
orderly  (Shaw),  who  fixed  up  the  "toddies." 

My  work  now  began  in  earnest,  and  the  next  day  I  rode  to  the 
lines  near  Spottsylvania  Court  House,  Va.,  visiting  some  of  the 
Division  and  Brigade  Commanders  in  company  with  Captain 
Parker,  one  of  our  staff.  May  22  we  camped  at  Hanover  Junc- 
tion, and  at  about  8  A.  M.  took  down  headquarters  tents  for  a 
grand  move.  When  we  reached  the  Richmond  &  Fredericksburg 
Railroad  we  found  it  necessary  to  put  our  artillery  in  position,  and 
by  4  P.  M.  the  fighting  commenced.  General  Birney's  Division 


charged  over  the  works  at  double-quick  time.  General  Hancock 
exposed  himself  in  the  hottest  of  the  fire  and  wherever  his  pres- 
ence was  most  necessary. 

While  returning  from  delivering  a  message  to  General  Tyler  a 
shell  passed  between  my  breast  and  my  horse's  head,  the  shock 
from  \vhich  caused  my  horse  to  fall.  As  he  was  going  at  full  speed 
T  struck  the  ground  fully  twenty  feet  in  his  front,  but  was  not  badly 
hurt.  My  horse  was  dead  in  a  few  moments,  and  securing  a 
riderless  horse,  I  was  soon  on  my  way  again,  and  reported  to  the 
General,  who  congratulated  me  upon  my  narrow  escape. 


Unhorsed  While  Delivering  Messages. 

The  firing  ceased  at  dusk,  when  the  dead  and  wounded  were 
gathered  up.  We  lost  about  200  killed,  but  captured  several  hun- 
dred of  the  enemy;  in  fact,  we  gained  a  signal  victory.  It  was  a 
miracle  that  the  General  was  not  killed,  as  the  shot,  snell  and  bul- 
lets were  flying  all  about  him,  but  he  sat  his  horse  as  if  he  was 
on  dress  parade,  and  gave  orders  to  his  aides  as  pleasantly  as 
though  he  were  just  having  a  little  fun. 


On  May  23  we  skirmished  most  of  the  day,  capturing  about 
thirty  prisoners  near  Hanover  Court  House,  but  did  not  have  the 
battle  we  expected. 

May  24  the  Corps  left  the  river.  Then  we  had  brisk  skirmish- 
ing all  that  day,  until  we  reached  the  bridge  over  North  Anna, 
which  was  protected  by  a  strong  force  of  Confederates,  but  after 
some  very  hard  fighting  we  took  the  bridge. 

On  May  25  General  Hancock  had  us  all  out  very  early,  and  we 
were  kept  in  the  thickest  of  the  fighting  most  of  the  day.  Shortly 
after  the  departure  of  Generals  Meade  and  Burnside,  with  their 
staffs,  who  had  been  at  headquarters  most  of  the  morning,  a  report 
came  to  General  Hancock  that  the  Ninth  Corps  were  shelling  our 
men  at  the  bridge.  The  General  immediately  sent  me  to  General 
Burnside  to  have  it  stopped,  and  while  carrying  the  order  it  was 
necessary  for  me  to  pass  through  an  open  space,  which  was  cov- 
ered by  a  masked  battery  of  the  enemy,  the  bullets  from  which 
were  as  thick  as  bees  in  the  air.  Just  before  returning  I  told  Lieu- 
tenant Fletcher  of  General  Wilcox's  staff,  who  was  preparing  to 
return  with  me,  of  the  danger,  but  he  said  that  the  important  orders 
he  had  to  deliver  required  him  to  run  the  risk,  so  we  started  across 
the  field  together  at  full  speed.  When  I  looked  back  I  saw  that 
he  and  his  horse  were  down,  where  they  remained  until  after  dusk, 
when  it  was  discovered  that  he  had  received  several  bullet  wounds. 
After  my  reporting  back  to  the  General,  he  and  all  of  us  rode  up 
to  examine  our  lines  a  little  before  sundown,  but  the  Confederate 
sharpshooters  made  it  so  disagreeable  that  we  could  not  go  very 
far;  so  we  returned  and  prepared  ourselves  for  the  flank  move- 
ment which  was  to  take  place  the  next  day. 

May  26,  1864,  we  were  at  Hanover  Court  House,  fifteen  miles 
from  Richmond,  and  our  headquarters  were  established  in  the 
Jones  House,  where  Dr.  Dougherty,  our  Corps  surgeon,  ordered 
me  to  bed  and  fixed  up  my  leg,  which  had  become  quite  lame 
from  the  effects  of  a  bruise  caused  by  coming  in  contact  with  a 
tree  while  delivering  an  order  to  General  Tyler,  who  then  com- 
manded an  artillery  brigade,  but  the  doctor  found  it  impossible  to 
carry  out  that  order,  as  I  was  determined  to  be  on  the  go  all  the 
time. 


92 

May  27  we  were  on  the  march  most  of  the  day,  and  it  was  after 
12  o'clock  before  the  command  halted  for  the  night. 

May  28  we  were  on  the  flank  movement  by  6  o'clock,  and  the 
skirmishing  was  kept  up  briskly  until  4  P.  M.,  when  it  was  made 
extra  lively,  General  Sheridan  losing  several  hundred  men  and 
sixty-five  officers  of  his  command.  Most  of  the  wounded  were 
taken  to  Salem  Church,  near  Pamunky  river,  when  we  crossed 
and  rode  to  the  head  of  the  column,  through  fields,  woods  and 
over  ditches,  in  order  that  the  men  marching  in  the  road  would 
not  be  annoyed  or  inconvenienced  by  our  horses  crowding  them. 

May  29,  while  at  Dr.  Pollard's,  General  Hancock  sent  Barlow's 
Division  out  to  reconnoitre.  Captain  Wilson  and  myself  were 
sent  with  him  out  on  the  Richmond  road,  and  just  as  we  reached 
the  road  that  turns  to  Hanover  Court  House  we  were  fired  into. 
1  at  once  reported  to  General  Hancock,  who  sent  me  to  General 
Meade  for  reinforcements,  which  were  immediately  put  in  action, 
and  a  very  lively  fight  took  place. 

May  30  General  Hancock  had  us  all  up  about  4  A.  M.  General 
Barlow  moved  his  Division  in  advance,  with  General  Gibbon  on 
his  left  and  General  Birney  on  the  right.  After  the  General  had 
selected  a  prominent  position  for  headquarters,  he  sent  me  after 
600  of  Berdan's  sharpshooters,  who  advanced  beyond  the  skir- 
mish line,  where  they  did  excellent  service.  Both  sides  kept  up 
a  heavy  fire,  and  hurled  shot  and  shell  at  each  other  most  of  the 
day,  without  any  particular  gain  on  either  side.  Many  good  men 
were  killed  on  both  sides.  Before  the  artillery  commenced  firing. 
General  Hancock  sent  word  to  Mrs.  Shelton,  who  occupied  a  very 
fine  house,  with  many  of  her  lady  friends  as  guests,  that  she  could 
have  protection  within  our  lines,  as  her  house,  being  between  the 
two  lines,  was  liable  to  be  destroyed ;  but  she  declined  to  leave,  and 
soon  after  shot  and  shell  were  crashing  through  it.  That  evening 
the  whole  family  were  found  in  the  cellar,  safe  and  unharmed. 
During  the  engagement  General  Hancock  sent  me  with  orders  to 
General  Tidball,  commanding  the  artillery,  to  fire  more  to  his  left, 
so  as  to  give  General  Birney  an  opportunity  to  advance  on  the 
right. 


93 

This  incident  was  witnessed  in  front  of  the  Shelton  house  May 
30 :  Early  in  the  morning  General  Grant  rode  up,  and  was  scan- 
ning the  enemy's  lines  through  his  field  glass,  and  was  but  a  few 
feet  from  a  caisson.  The  women  in  the  house  sent  a  negro  with  a 
shovel  of  coals,  who,  raising  the  lid  of  the  chest,  threw  the  coals 
in.  An  explosion  quickly  followed.  The  General  showed  no  signs 
of  being  disturbed.  It  was  no  doubt  known  by  some  of  those  in 
the  house  who  he  was,  and  they  hoped  by  performing  the  above  to 
remove  him  from  earth.  Their  scheme  failed. 

The  firing  was  kept  up  most  of  the  night,  and  on  the  morning 
of  May  31  Generals  Barlow  and  Birney  advanced  their  Divisions 
and  took  the  breastworks,  which  were  soon  utilized  by  the  Second 
Army  Corps.  General  Whistler  did  some  gallant  work  with  the 
Second  New  York  Heavy  Artillery.  General  Hancock  worked  us 
very  hard  all  day,  and  it  seemed  almost  a  miracle  that  none  of  us 
were  hit,  as  we  were  under  a  continuous  fire  most  of  the  time. 
General  Grant  and  staff  were  fired  upon  while  passing  near  Colo- 
nel Shelton's  house. 

Colonel  Batchelder,  our  Corps  Quartermaster,  lost  twenty 
wagons  and  three  officers,  which  were  en  route  to  Port  Royal 
after  provisions.  During  the  night  I  delivered  the  following  cir- 
cular to  each  Division  Commander : 

Headquarters  Second  Army  Corps, 

May  31,  1864 — 12.30  A.  M. 

If  Division  Commanders  in  the  advance  require  support,  and 
cannot  obtain  it  on  their  right  or  left,  they  can  call  upon  the  Major- 
General  commanding  the  Corps  for  reinforcements.  He  will  be 
found  at  the  Shelton  House. 

W.  S.  HANCOCK, 

Maj.-Gen.  Commanding 

Reaching  Cold  Harbor  during  the  night  of  June  i  on  our 
march,  the  old  Second  Corps  was  firing  pretty  lively  by  4  o'clock 
A.  M.  On  the  3d  of  June  the  " Johnny  Rebs"  soon  let  us  know 
that  they  did  not  intend  to  fall  back  any  further.  We  made  up  our 
minds  that  they  were  going  to  give  us  hard  work,  and  by  sunrise 
there  was  a  line  at  least  six  miles  long,  pouring  a  continuous  fire 


94 

at  each  other.  The  artillery  went  at  it  in  dead  earnest ;  it  was  an 
interesting  sight. 

The  Fifth  Army  Corps  was  soon  in  need  of  assistance,  and  Gen- 
eral Birney,  commanding  the  Third  Division,  went  to  General 
Warren's  support,  who  was  opposed  by  a  very  strong  force.  These 
Confederates  seemed  determined  to  break  our  line  if  possible,  and 
when  General  Tyler,  commanding  the  Fourth  Brigade,  charged, 
he  was  shot  in  the  foot,  and  everyone  of  his  staff  was  either  killed 
or  wounded.  Colonel  Brooke,  commanding  the  Brigade  (now 
Major-General,  U.  S.  A.),  was  shot  through  the  stomach,  and 
Colonel  Porter,  commanding  the  Eighth  New  York — one  of  the 
most  popular  officers  in  the  Army  at  that  time — was  killed.  Col- 
onel Haskel  of  the  Sixty-sixth  New  York,  another  gallant  officer, 
with  eight  other  Colonels  whose  names  I  do  not  now  recall,  were 
also  killed. 

General  Hancock  stationed  himself,  with  his  staff,  upon  a  prom- 
inent knoll,  where  he  could  witness  almost  every  movement,  send- 
ing his  officers  at  all  necessary  times,  which  seemed  to  us  exceed- 
ingly numerous,  to  the  Division  Commanders  with  orders.  He 
directed  General  Barlow  to  occupy  a  position  on  the  crest  of  a 
hill  which  the  Confederates  seemed  determined  we  should  not 
hold.  Captain  Mclntire  was  ordered  to  deliver  this,  but  had  not 
gotten  out  of  sight  before  his  horse  was  shot  under  him,  and  he 
had  to  return,  when  Capt.  Isaac  Parker  was  told  by  the  General 
"for  God's  sake  get  that  order  to  Barlow."  Parker  had  gone  but 
a  short  distance  when  his  horse  was  shot  in  the  eye,  reared  up 
and  fell  over  dead.  General  Hancock,  clasping  his  hands  together, 
said,  "Poor  Parker  is  killed."  Turning  to  Captain  Wilson,  he 
told  him  to  get  the  order  to  Barlow  at  once.  Just  as  Captain  Wil- 
son started  one  of  our  orderlies  was  killed,  and  a  few  bullets  went 
through  the  headquarter's  flag  and  one  through  the  rim  of  the 
General's  hat,  when  he  quietly  said,  "Gentlemen,  it  is  a  little  close 
here,"  but  still  sat  on  his  horse,  which  was  firm  as  a  rock. 

Just  then  Captain  Wilson  returned,  his  horse  having  been  killed. 
General  Hancock  then  turned  to  me,  and  said : 

"Now,  Mr.  Armes,  it  is  your  turn,  and  for  God's  sake  get  this 
order  to  Barlow." 


95 

The  battle  was  now  raging  its  hottest,  and  shells  were  bursting 
all  around  us,  tearing  up  the  ground  under  our  horses  and  cover- 
ing us  with  dirt. 

I  headed  my  horse  for  General  Barlow,  who  could  be  seen  sit- 
ting on  his  prancing  steed,  in  the  midst  of  the  firing.  Lying  at 
the  side  of  my  horse's  neck,  I  sent  him  forward  at  full  speed,  and 
in  less  than  four  minutes  was  at  Barlow's  side. 


Delivering  Despatches  to  Barlow. 

The  charge  was  made,  but  it  was  found  impossible  to  drive  the 
enemy  out  of  their  stronghold.  The  old  Second  Corps  now  went 
to  work  in  earnest,  and  dug  rifle  pits,  and  soon  had  a  strong  line 
of  breastworks,  which  proved  to  be  good  protection  against  the 
bullets  and  shells,  which  filled  the  air  like  a  swarm  of  bees. 

Upon  my  return,  General  Hancock  grasped  me  by  the  hand 
and  thanked  me  for  my  promptness.  Colonel  Mitchell  then  rode 
up  to  me,  and  said  that  General  Meade,  who  was  talking  to  Gen- 
eral Hancock  when  the  latter  gave  me  the  order,  asked  him, 

"Who  is  that  young  officer  that  just  started  for  Barlow?" 

"It  is  Mr.  Armes,"  Hancock  replied,  "and  he  would  carry  an 
order  into  hell  if  I  should  tell  him  to  take  one  there."  All  were 


96 

very  tired  and  hungry  that  night  when  we  went  into  camp,  where 
the  coffee  without  milk  and  a  little  fat  pork  and  hard  tack,  which 
our  cooks  had  prepared  for  us,  was  relished. 

About  June  10,  1864,  after  marching  all  night,  we  reached  Wil- 
cox's  Landing  on  the  James  river,  and  General  Hancock  at  once 
placed  me  on  duty  to  superintend  the  crossing  of  the  troops,  with 
orders  to  report  every  hour  the  number  who  had  crossed  and  facil- 
ities for  getting  them  over  as  rapidly  as  possible.  All  the  boats 
were  loaded  to  the  water's  edge,  and  not  a  man  or  horse  was  lost 
out  of  the  entire  Corps.  As  fast  as  the  men  landed  on  the  other 
side  they  marched  to  the  Christian  farm,  where  the  General  made 
his  headquarters,  and  I  then  superintended  the  crossing  of  the 
artillery.  It  was  after  I  o'clock  before  I  had  an  opportunity  to 
get  a  moment's  rest.  I  believe  General  Hancock  would  have  sat 
on  his  horse  and  kept  up  all  night  if  Dr.  Dougherty  had  not  made 
him  get  into  an  ambulance  at  I  o'clock  and  try  to  get  a  little  rest. 

The  troops  were  supposed  to  be  on  the  march,  but  the  roads 
were  so  narrow,  the  men  so  tired,  that  we  made  very  slow  prog- 
ress, and  by  5  o'clock  the  roads  were  so  blocked  with  artillery, 
troops  and  wagons  I  could  not  get  the  ambulance,  in  which  the 
General  had  fallen  asleep,  along  the  road.  I  took  the  responsibil- 
ity of  riding  ahead  until  I  found  a  large  field,  when  I  ordered  the 
whole  command  to  turn  in  and  park.  For  a  few  moments  I  could 
see  each  regiment  as  it  came  to  a  halt  at  the  place  assigned  it  drop 
sound  asleep  almost  the  moment  the  order  of  "Place,  rest"  was 
given.  I  say  it  was  only  for  a  few  moments  that  I  saw  it,  for  I  was 
soon  sound  asleep  myself,  although  on  my  horse,  and  saw  very 
little  for  nearly  two  hours,  as  I  had  been  in  the  saddle  most  of  the 
time  for  two  nights  and  three  days.  As  soon  as  the  rear  of  the 
column  was  in  the  field,  the  General's  ambulance  came  up,  and  I 
was  suddenly  awakened,  and  took  my  place  by  his  side.  He  was 
wide  awake,  but  still  remained  in  the  ambulance,  which  was  driven 
along  by  the  side  of  the  Corps. 

When  we  reached  Long  Bridge,  orders  were  given  me  to  remain 
there  until  the  entire  command  had  crossed,  and  then  have  the 
bridge  taken  up  and  burned. 


97 

Colonel  Mclntosh  was  in  command  of  the  rear  guard.  At  half- 
past  5  o'clock  in  the  afternoon  his  men  were  destroying  bridges ; 
half  an  hour  later  my  orders  had  been  carried  out,  not  a  bridge  or 
crossing  remained,  and  I  started  for  headquarters,  twelve  miles 
away,  at  Clark's  House,  arriving  there  at  9  o'clock.  This  delay 
was  due  to  the  darkness  of  the  night  and  the  blocked  condition  of 
the  road.  Owing  to  these  adverse  conditions  three  hours  were 
necessary  for  what  would  have  ordinarily  required  but  an  hour. 

A  cold  dinner  awaited  me,  an  excellent  hot  one  having  been 
served  but  an  hour  or  two  before  to  Generals  Grant,  Meade  and 
Hancock  and  their  entire  staffs,  with  the  exceptions  of  Captain 
Meade,  Lieutenant  French  and  myself.  We  never  lacked  appetite, 
and  had  no  cause  to  find  fault  with  the  food  furnished,  our  great 
trouble  being  want  of  time  to  eat. 

I  formed  a  habit  of  writing  something  home  every  day,  if  it  was 
not  more  than  three  lines  in  pencil,  on  scraps  of  paper  or  anything 
I  could  find  to  write  on ;  and  as  hundreds  of  my  letters  and  notes 
have  been  preserved,  I  find  some  very  interesting  matter  in  them. 
The  following  are  extracts  from  some  of  the  letters  written  to  my 
father  and  brother  during  the  campaign  before  Petersburg  and 
Cold  Harbor,  Va. : 

Virginia,  June  4,  1864. 

General  Hancock  had  all  of  his  staff  called  out  before  4  o'clock 
this  morning,  and  we  were  in  our  saddles,  as  the  indications  were 
we  wrould  be  attacked  by  the  "Johnnies,"  who  seemed  anxious  to 
drive  us  from  the  line  of  breastworks  and  trenches  we  had  made 
so  strong,  but  after  a  few  thousand  shots  were  fired  by  our  in- 
fantry, they  seemed  to  abandon  the  idea  of  getting  us  out  so 
easily  as  they  first  anticipated,  General  Tidball  having  set  his  ar- 
tillery to  work  throwing  shells  into  their  ranks,  which  made  them 
scatter  and  look  for  shelter,  and  the  only  thing  they  could  do  was 
to  return  the  fire,  wrhich  was  kept  up  all  day  at  a  lively  rate.  Very- 
few  men  have  been  killed  on  either  side,  but  a  good  many  wounded. 
I  have  been  greatly  provoked  at  the  General,  since  starting  to  write 
this,  for  keeping  our  headquarters  in  such  an  exposed  position, 
as  I  have  had  to  move  five  times,  trying  to  find  a  safe  place  in 
which  to  write.  A  short  time  ago  a  shot  went  through  the  kitchen 
tent,  knocking  our  mess  table  to  splinters.  The  General  sits  on 
his  camp  stool  in  front  of  his  tent  watching  the  shelling  as  if  it 
were  a  sham  affair,  instead  of  a  very  serious  one,  but  no  matter 

7 


98 

how  anxious  any  of  us  may  feel  for  our  safety,  we  dare  not  show 
it,  but  have  to  keep  ourselves  within  hearing  of  his  voice,  and  be 
in  readiness  at  any  moment  to  ride  through  the  midst  of  the  firing 
and  the  bursting  of  shells.  Those  around  Washington  who  see 
staff  officers  dressed  up  in  their  gay  and  showy  uniforms  at  the 
theaters,  receptions  and  balls  no  doubt  think  it  is  grand  to  be  on 
the  staff,  but  if  they  could  be  at  our  headquarters  for  an  hour 
they  would  soon  be  convinced  there  was  a  little  work  attached  to 
the  position,  and  I  am  now  convinced  that  the  remark  made  by 
General  Grant  to  General  Rawlins,  that  "Hancock  would  give  me 
my  belly-full  of  fighting,"  seems  to  have  come  true,  for  I  am  not 
hankering  after  any  more  than  the  General  seems  fit  to  furnish. 

After  delivering  an  order  to  General  Barlow  this  afternoon, 
upon  my  return,  while  riding  along  the  trenches  and  breastworks 
the  Second  New  York  Heavy  Artillery  had  just  completed,  Colo- 
nel Whistler,  who  commands  that  regiment,  and  who  has  been  so 
energetic  in  holding  his  line,  asked  me  to  dismount  and  inspect  his 
work.  So,  securing  my  horse  out  of  range  of  the  enemy's  fire,  I 
accompanied  the  Colonel.  It  seemed  certain  death  for  a  man  to 
show  his  head  above  the  trenches,  as  the  rebel  sharpshooters 
would  put  a  bullet  through  him  almost  as  fast  as  one  appeared. 
Three  of  the  regiment  and  one  officer  were  killed  as  the  Colonel 
and  myself  were  going  along  the  line,  and  the  old  Colonel  would 
sing  out  in  each  case,  "Keep  down  and  don't  expose  yourselves; 
you  must  be  careful  and  obey  orders." 

I  told  General  Hancock  about  Colonel  Whistler's  coolness  and 
ability,  and  the  hard  work  he  had  done  with  the  Second  New 
York,  and  the  General  remarked,  "Yes,  he  has  made  the  Second 
a  good  regiment." 

General  Nelson  A.  Miles,  one  of  the  youngest  officers  of  his  rank 
in  the  army,  whom  T  met  in  Washington  some  time  ago,  is  bound 
to  make  his  mark.  After  leaving  General  Whistler,  I  met  Miles, 
who  asked  me  to  ride  along  his  line  with  him,  which  I  did,  and  he 
did  not  seem  to  mind  the  bullets  and  shells  buzzing  past  him  any 
more  than  if  they  were  so  many  bees. 

I  have  written  you  a  longer  letter  than  usual  this  time,  and  it 
may  be  my  last,  as  it  seems  impossible  to  escape  being  hit. 

June  5,  1864. 

By  6  this  A.  M.  the  fire  was  very  lively  on  both  sides,  but  we 
had  no  regular  battle.  Captain  Miller  of  our  staff,  who  runs  our 
mess,  got  up  an  elegant  dinner,  and  keeps  a  good  supply  on  hand 
of  everything  the  market  affords,  and  promptly  collects  our  bills. 
My  share  for  the  past  five  days  is  only  $12.55,  so  our  being  in  the 
'saddle  such  a  great  part  of  the  time  makes  our  board  bills  very 


99 

light.    I  think  Miller's  object  in  collecting  so  promptly  is  that  In 
case  any  of  us  are  killed  he  won't  be  out  of  pocket  on  the  mess. 

June  6,  1864. 

Just  after  my  letter  was  closed  last  evening,  and  we  were  all 
through  a  good  dinner,  the  "Johnnies"  made  up  their  minds  that 
our  headquarters  must  be  moved  if  their  shells  could  do  it,  and 
they  seemed  to  have  the  range  on  every  tent  and  our  headquarters. 
So  about  3  o'clock  the  shot  and  shell  were  being  hurled  among  us 
so  fast  that  the  General  gave  orders  to  get  our  horses,  and  while 
in  the  act  of  mounting  Captain  McCune  of  our  staff  had  a  leg  taken 
off  below  the  knee,  and  was  at  once  carried  into  his  tent,  where 
Drs.  Dougherty  and  Smart  gave  him  every  attention  possible,  and 
had  him  sent  to  the  field. hospital,  which  is  out  of  range  of  the 
enemy's  fire.  I  shall  never  forget  his  answer  to  Dr.  Dougherty 
when  he  was  asked  if  he  was  badly  hurt.  His  reply  was,  "Yes, 
doctor;  my  leg  has  gone  to  hell."  We  had  quite  a  force  of  soldiers 
and  engineers  at  work  today  undermining  the  rebel  works,  so  as 
to  blow  them  up,  it  being  almost  impossible  for  us  to  shell  them 
out. 

Gaines  Mills,  June  7,  1864. 

I  have  been  very  busy  with  the  engineers  most  all  day,  laying 
out  new  roads  and  in  moving  our  headquarters  from  Cold  Harbor 
to  this  place,  also  in  seeing  about  the  burying  of  the  dead,  which 
in  some  cases  have  laid  unburied  several  days,  after  it  was  settled 
by  a  flag  of  truce  we  could  have  two  hours  for  that  purpose. 

Division  Commanders  were  at  once  notified  of  this,  and  our 
troops  and  the  "Johnnies"  were  soon  mingled  together  and  en- 
gaged in  this  work,  seemingly  as  contented  as  if  there  was  no  hos- 
tile feeling  existing  between  us.  Very  few  words  were  spoken,  as 
strict  orders  had  been  given  on  both  sides  prohibiting  conversa- 
tion between  us,  but,  of  course,  this  could  not  be  fully  enforced. 
The  bodies  of  many  of  our  men  were  found  right  along  the  Con- 
federate breastworks,  where  they  had  been  killed  in  their  attempt 
to  get  over,  many  being  swollen  up  almost  as  large  as  a  horse  and 
perfectly  black. 

June  8,  1864. 

This  A.  M.  I  received  my  first  letter  in  three  weeks  from  home, 
we  having  been  so  continuously  on  the  march  the  mail  could  not 
be  distributed,  but  letters  we  wrote  could  be  forwarded,  everything 
being  rather  quiet. 

June  9,  1864. 

There  has  been  but  little  firing  today.  There  is  a  fine  spring  of 
water  between  the  Confederate  and  our  lines,  and  arrangements 
made  by  which  both  use  the  water,  where  we  meet  as  long-lost 


100 

friends  and  joke  each  other.  I  must  not  forget  to  mention  the 
scolding  I  received  from  the  General  last  night,  and  you  bet  I  will 
always  remember  it.  I  am  very-  fond  of  music,  you  know,  and  I 
wanted  to  hear  something  besides  what  I  have  been  hearing  the 
last  few  weeks — the  hum  and  buzz  of  the  bullets  and  shells.  None 
of  our  bands  have  played  for  some  time,  and  I  accidentally  met  the 
leader  of  the  Vermont  Brigade  Band,  and  asked  him  if  he  would 
not  like  to  come  to  Second  Army  Corps  headquarters  and  play  a 
few  pieces  for  the  General.  He  gladly  jumped  at  the  opportunity, 
and  brought  all  his  men  over,  and  I  assigned  them  a  place  in  front 
of  the  General's  tent,  fixing  candles  on  sticks,  so  they  could  see  to 
read  their  notes.  I  had  not  said  a  word  to  the  General  about  it, 
who,  by  the  way  had  just  laid  down  for  a  nap,  and  was  asleep,  but 
I  did  not  know  it  at  the  time. 

As  soon  as  the  candles  were  lighted  the  members  of  the  band 
turned  to  their  notes  and  the  music  started  in  earnest,  and  so  did 
the  General.  He  sprang  up  from  his  bed  half  asleep  as  suddenly 
as  if  a  shell  had  burst  under  him,  and  the  first  expression  1  heard 
from  him  was,  "What  in  the  h —  —  is  that?"  Not  one  of  us  said  a 
word,  but  awaited  developments.  He  stood  at  the  door  of  his  tent 
a  few  moment  until  the  band  was  through  with  the  piece  it  was 
playing,  when  he  walked  up  to  where  they  were  and  enquired  for 
the  leader,  who  reported,  and  the  General  asked,  "What  command 
do  you  belong  to,  and  how  came  you  over  here?" 

After  being  informed  that  one  of  his  staff  had  requested  him  to 
come,  the  General  thanked  them  very  politely,  but  excused  them, 
and  they  withdrew.  Then  he  asked  Colonels  Mitchell  and  Parke 
if  they  knew  who  of  the  staff  dare  go  out  of  his  command  and  get  a 
band  to  play  for  him  at  that  hour  of  the  night,  just  as  he  was  trying 
to  get  a  little  rest.  They  did  not  know  who  it  was,  but  I  waited  a 
few  moments  until  he  had  cooled  down  a  little,  when  I  tapped  at 
the  door,  and  was  invited  in,  when  he  immediately  ordered  Shaw 
to  bring  in  two  "toddies."  While  we  were  enjoying  these  I 
changed  the  conversation  to  the  band,  and  said  that,  believing  him 
to  be  very  fond  of  music,  and  having  accidentally  run  across  this 
band,  I  thought  I  would  agreeably  surprise  him.  He  remarked 
in  a  very  pleasant  manner,  "Mr.  Armes,  I  have  bands  in  my  own 
command,  and  when  I  wish  music  I  don't  propose  to  call  it  from 
another  command,  but  I  will  overlook  it  this  time."  Then  he  im- 
mediately ordered  Shaw  to  bring  in  two  more  "toddies,"  which 
we  drank  to  the  success  and  good  intentions  of  the  band,  after  he 
highly  complimented  me  upon  my  success  in  making  some  new 
short  roads  and  bridges  during  the  day,  and  at  10.30  I  bade  him 
good-night. 


lot 

Gaines  Mills,  June  10,  1864. 

I  slept  soundly  all  night,  until  called  by  General  Morgan,  Chief 
of  Staff,  who  sent  me  to  Major  Brainard,  Chief  of  Engineers,  to 
see  how  many  tools  he  had  on  hand  that  were  available.  Upon  my 
return  he  sent  me  to  get  the  detail  to  use  them  from  General  Gib- 
bons' Division. 

June  II,  1864. 

General  Wright  of  the  Sixth  Corps  and  General  Gibbons  of  ours 
came  over  to  headquarters  last  evening,  when  General  Hancock, 
Major  Mitchell  and  myself  went  with  them  to  General  Grant's 
headquarters,  where  a  long  discussion  took  place,  and  I  discov- 
ered there  was  to  be  a  grand  move  soon,  but,  of  course,  I  dare  not 
put  the  purport  on  paper.  I  will  let  you  know  more  tomorrow. 
Headquarters  in  the  Saddle  (as  Pope  said  in  1862), 

Near  the  Chickahominy,  June  12,  1864. 

All  I  can  say  now  is  that  all  our  baggage,  tents,  etc.,  have  been 
sent  to  the  rear,  and  the  General  and  all  of  us  are  in  the  saddle, 
ready  to  make  a  sudden  move — only  known  to  a  few.    It  may  be 
several  days  before  I  can  send  you  another  line. 
Headquarters,  Second  A.  C., 

Near  Petersburg,  Va.,  June  16,  1864. 

We  have  been  making  what  is  called  a  forced  march  the  past 
four  clays.  General  Hancock  has  kept  along  with  us  at  the  head 
of  the  column  most  of  the  time,  sharing  the  same  fare — hard  tack, 
muddy,  warm  water  and  fat  bacon.  After  marching  most  of  last 
night,  we  halted  at  /  this  morning  at  a  clump  of  shade  trees  in 
sight  of  Petersburg.  The  Ninth  Corps  has  been  ordered  to  co- 
operate with  our  Corps,  and  I  have  been  riding  back  and  forth  the 
most  of  the  day  to  try  and  get  General  Burnside  to  hurry  his  men 
forward,  but  to  no  purpose.  I  am  confident  that  if  General  Grant 
would  come  forward  and  hurry  General  Burnside  up  we  could 
march  into  Petersburg  tonight  without  much  trouble,  but  it  looks 
as  if  there  was  a  disposition  somewhere  not  to  go  to  Richmond  or 
bring  the  war  to  a  close  just  yet.  There  has  been  a  good  deal  of 
firing  on  both  sides  most  of  the  day,  and  we  have  lost  a  good  many 
men.  The  General's  wound  has  given  him  a  great  deal  of  pain  and 
worry  all  day,  and  his  want  of  rest  and  something  proper  to  eat 
and  drink  has  been  very  trying,  not  only  for  him,  but  your  humble 
servant  also.  Will  try  and'  get  a  few  lines  off  tomorrow. 

June  17,  1864. 

We  are  trying  to  hold  our  ground,  and  at  the  same  time  watching 
for  an  opportunity  to  advance.  The  General  and  all  of  us  have 
been  on  the  front  lines  most  of  the  day.  An  arrangement  has  been 
made  for  General  Burnside  to  make  an  attack  on  the  works  in  our 


102 

front  at  9  o'clock  tonight  with  5000  men,  and  our  Corps  is  in  readi- 
ness to  go  forward  if  necessary.  General  Warren  came  over  to 
our  headquarters  at  10  o'clock  this  forenoon  very  much  surprised 
that  Burnside  had  not  fired  a  shot.  General  Hancock  requested 
me  to  go  with  General  Warren  and  find  Burnside,  which  I  did, 
but  we  got  no  satisfaction,  and  1  have  just  returned  and  reported 
the  result  to  the  General,  and  it  is  now  after  n  o'clock  P.  M.,  and 
I  can  hardly  hold  my  eyes  open. 

June  18,  1864. 

The  General  kept  the  old  Second  Corps  under  arms  all  of  last 
night,  and  was  up  himself,  with  all  his  staff  within  range  of  his 
voice.  At  12' o'clock  I  was  sent  to  see  why  Burnside  had  not  made 
an  attack,  and  he  told  me  to  say  to  General  Hancock  that  he  would 
make  a  charge  in  a  short  time  with  5000  men  deployed.  Upon 
that  report  nearly  every  regiment  of  our  Corps  was  ordered  to 
stand  under  arms,  and  not  an  officer  or  man  dared  sit  down,  but 
many  fell  sound  asleep,  standing  and  resting  on  their  guns;  they 
were  tired  out.  Nearly  an  hour  passed,  and  still  no  sign  from 
Burnside.  The  General  sent  to  him  again,  and  I  found  him  sound 
asleep  under  a  tree,  with  nearly  all  of  his  staff.  I  woke  him  up, 
and  stated  that  General  Hancock  had  sent  me,  with  his  compli- 
ments, to  inform  him  that  the  Second  Corps  had  been  under  arms 
since  9  o'clock  last  evening,  waiting  for  him  to  advance,  and  it  was 
now  i  A.  M.  The  only  excuse  he  was  able  to  offer  was  that  his 
men  had  not  come  up  as  expected.  After  delivering  this  reply  to 
General  Hancock,  his  remark,  addressed  to  all  of  us,  was,  "Gentle- 
men, poor  old  Burnside  is  so  slow,"  at  the  same  time  telling  me  to 
remain  on  the  lookout  and  report  the  first  sign  immediately.  After 
waiting  until  2  this  A.  M.,  I  took  the  responsibility  of  going  to  see 
Burnside  again.  He  was  still  lying  under  a  big  tree  talking  to 
some  one,  and  told  me  to  tell  General  Hancock  that  he  would  make 
the  attack  within  an  hour  and  a-half.  Not  caring  to  disturb  the 
General  I  galloped  to  General  Birney's  headquarters  and  gave 
him  the  information.  I  found  him,  with  his  division,  all  ready,  but 
it  was  after  4  o'clock  this  morning  before  Burnside  charged,  when 
he  captured  six  pieces  of  artillery  and  400  or  500  prisoners.  I  at 
once  took  the  news  to  General  Hancock,  who  ordered  me  back  to 
the  front  line  to  watch  developments,  and  report  anything  of  im- 
portance to  him.  I  returned  at  n  A.  M.,  expecting  to  get  a  little 
rest,  but  after  two  hours  of  sound  sleep  I  was  informed  that  the 
General  desired  to  see  me.  Rushing  into  his  presence  half  asleep, 
I  found  Generals  Grant  and  Meade,  with  their  staffs,  all  around  in 
full  uniform  and  looking  as  gay  as  if  they  had  just  returned  from 
a  review,  and  soon  saw  that  Shaw  (the  General's  orderly)  had  not 


io3 

been  idle.  General  Hancock  gave  me  a  message  to  deliver  to 
General  Gibbon.  Upon  returning',  General  Hancock  was  in  his 
bed  in  the  Jones  House,  where  Dr.  Dougherty  had  ordered  him  to 
remain  quiet,  as  his  wound  was  still  in  a  terrible  state,  having  had 
a  number  of  small  pieces  of  bone  taken  out. 

The  command  of  the  Second  Corps  devolved  upon  General  Bir- 
ney,  he  being  the  senior  Major-General  in  command.  Lieutenant 
French  and  myself  were  sent  to  the  front  lines  with  him  to  watch 
matters,  and  we  have  been  under  a  very  hot  fire  several  times  dur- 
ing the  day,  as  the  General  seems  to  make  a  target  of  himself  by 
wearing  his  full-dress  uniform  of  a  Major-General,  yellow  sash 
and  stars  shining  so  conspicuously  above  everything  else.  We 
captured  a  few  Johnnies,  and  this  evening  a  detail  of  men  went  be- 
tween the  two  lines  to  gather  up  a  few  of  the  dead  and  wounded, 
but  several  were  shot  down  by  the  enemy  before  they  could  re- 
cover anyone.  It  seems  hard  to  be  so  situated  that  a  man  who  lies 
in  the  hot  sun,  shot  to  pieces,  cannot  be  reached,  and  has  to  die 
for  want  of  proper  treatment.  If  General  Hancock  was  only  in 
command  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  it  would  not  be  many  days 
before  we  would  be  in  Richmond.  He  would  have  marched  right 
into  Petersburg  yesterday,  and  have  been  in  Richmond  today, 
with  scarcely  any  loss  on  our  side,  if  allowed  to.  But  the  specula- 
tors, officeholders  and  many  of  those  in  power  do  not  want  the 
war  ended  this  year,  judging  from  the  movements  made.  We  have 
a  good,  strong  line  today,  but  I  am  completely  tired  out. 

Two  and  one-half  Miles  from  Petersburg,  June  19,  1864. 

This  being  Sunday,  the  Army  is  resting  as  well  as  they  can  un- 
der the  circumstances,  as  General  Birney  took  command  of  the 
Corps  yesterday,  and  was  fighting  most  of  the  time.  I  did  not 
get  much  rest.  Our  Corps  has  not  gained  much  ground,  except 
what  General  Barlow,  with  his  First  Division,  took,  and  now  holds 
all  he  gained,  railroad  and  all.  Colonel  Morgan,  Lieutenant 
French  and  myself  inspected  our  front  line  with  General  Birney 
about  2  o'clock,  and  then  went  to  General  Barlow's  headquarters. 
No  charges  have  been  made  today.  In  spite  of  the  continuous  fir- 
ing, several  burying  parties  went  out  tonight  to  gather  the  dead 
and  wounded. 

June  20,  1864. 

I  received  a  very  small  mail  last  night,  the  first  we  have  had  for 
several  days.  I  commenced  answering  letters  before  breakfast, 
and  had  not  replied  to  more  than  twenty-five,  when  several  of  Gen- 
eral Burnside's  staff  came  to  General  Birney's  headquarters,  where 
I  remained  during  the  day  (but  slept  at  our  own  in  the  Jones 
House.  General  Birney  ordered  me  to  accompany  them  and  show 


them  our  front  line,  which  was  pretty  close  to  the  enemy's  works 
in  some  places.  After  our  return,  Captain  Miller  had  a  fine  supper 
prepared  for  us,  which  we  all  relished,  you  bet,  as  we  did  not  carry 
any  lunch  with  us,  and  could  not  have  eaten  it  if  we  had,  as  we 
were  in  the  saddle  most  of  the  time  from  10  A.  M.  until  dark,  and 
were  watched  so  closely  by  the  Confederate  sharpshooters.  The 
Ninth  Corps  is  to  relieve  us  at  8  o'clock  this  evening,  and  take  the 
place  on  our  front  line.  Generals  Grant  and  Meade  and  staffs  vis- 
ited our  headquarters  during  the  day.  General  Hancock's  wound 
is  in  such  a  condition  that  the  doctor  finds  it  necessary  to  insist 
upon  his  keeping  as  quiet  as  possible  this  hot  weather,  in  order  to 
save  his  life,  but  he  has  a  hard  time  in  carrying  out  his  wishes,  as 
the  General  is  so  restless  and  anxious  to  be  in  his  saddle  and  on  the 
front  line  with  the  boys.  We  all  do  our  best  to  keep  him  posted 
on  every  movement  and  everything  of  importance.  General  Bir- 
ney  works  hard  and  seems  anxious  to  do  something  that  will  im- 
mortalize him.  He  is  very  dignified,  and  feels  his  importance  as 
the  Commanding  General  of  the  Second  Corps,  and  well  he  may, 
as  it  is  as  high  an  honor  as  a  person  could  wish  for  to  say  that  he 
was  ever  a  member  in  any  capacity  of  the  Second  Army  Corps. 
We  all  like  General  Birney,  but  he  is  not  able  to  handle  so  large  a 
command  just  yet;  after  a  little  more  experience  he  may  improve. 
One  great  element  in  his  favor  is  that  he  is  a  man  of  extra  good 
habits. 

June  21,  1864. 

General  Birney  moved  out  early  with  the  Second  Army  Corps, 
General  Barlow  commanding  the  First  Division,  General  Gibbon 
the  Second,  General  Mott  the  Third  (General  Birney's),  in  the  rear. 
This  movement  looked  as  if  we  were  trying  to  flank  the  "Jonn~ 
nies."  The  firing  began  to  grow  very  lively  as  soon  as  we  reached 
the  Jerusalem  plank  road,  where  we  were  obliged  to  halt,  and  feel 
our  way  slowly,  and  fortify  as  we  advanced. 

General  Hancock  became  so  excited  that  he  rushed  out  of  his 
room  in  the  Jones  House,  and  wanted  his  horse  brought  up,  so  as 
to  go  to  the  front  line,  where  the  fighting  was  taking  place,  but 
Drs.  Dougherty  and  Smart  made  him  return  to  his  bed  with  the 
greatest  difficulty.  The  General  keeps  saying,  "I  am  afraid  some- 
thing will  happen  to  the  Corps."  He  wants  to  be  with  it  in  action 
all  the  time.  General  Birney  did  well  today  with  the  Corps,  as  we 
have  taken  quite  a  large  number  of  prisoners.  Among  them  is  a 
General  Baker,  who  had  a  beautiful  white  thoroughbred  horse, 
which  our  staff,  as  well  as  General  Birney's,  all  wanted,  but  could 
not  be  used  by  all  of  us,  so  we  decided  that  as  General  Barlow  had 
done  most  of  the  work  he  should  have  the  horse.  There  seems  to 


165 

be  a  tremendous  force  of  Confederates  in  our  front,  and  all  the 
tools  we  can  get  hold  of  are  used  by  the  men  throwing  up  breast- 
works, being  obliged  to  work  in  reliefs  all  night,  in  order  to  be  able 
to  hold  our  own,  as  we  are  liable  to  be  charged  upon  any  moment. 
If  so,  we  will  be  in  a  bad  fix.  I  have  carefully  inspected  our  entire 
front  line  twice  today,  and  the  men  are  completely  worn  out.  Gen- 
eral Tidball  keeps  the  country  well  lighted  up  with  his  mortars, 
which  throw  the  shells  by  the  thousands  into  the  camps  of  the 
enemy,  many  of  them  bursting  in  the  air,  it  looks  like  the  whole 
country  was  ablaze  with  fireworks.  Almost  everyone  seems  ex- 
cited, as  it  is  the  impression  that  we  are  on  the  eve  of  a  great  bat- 
tle, and  as  the  men  are  almost  worn  out  from  the  forced  marches 
we  have  just  made,  and  from  the  hard  work  of  digging  ditches  and 
throwing  up  breastworks,  we  are  not  in  a  very  favorable  condi- 
tion to  do  more  than  hold  our  ground,  if  we  can  do  that.  The 
weather  is  very  hot,  and  we  cannot  procure  anything  to  drink  but 
warm,  muddy  water,  made  so  by  men,  mules  and  horses  all  rush- 
ing into  it.  Canteens  and  tin  cups  by  the  hundreds  can  be  seen 
by  the  side  of  a  mule's  or  horse's  front  or  hind  leg  or  nose  in  the 
water,  and  other  men  hurrying  out  of  their  way,  so  as  to  dip  their 
caps  in  and  drink,  as  if  the  water  was  from  a  nice  cool  spring.  Gen- 
eral Birney  seems  extra  wide-awake  this  evening,  doing  all  he  can 
to  prepare  for  the  worst.  If  I  live  to  write  another  letter  it  will  be 
one  of  interest,  I  think;  so  good-bye  until  you  hear  from  me  again. 
From  yours,  truly. 

June  22,  1864. 

As  everything  seemed  quiet,  with  the  exception  of  the  usual  fir- 
ing on  the  picket  line,  this  morning,  after  breakfast,  I  lay  down  to 
take  a  nap,  and  had  barely  gotten  asleep,  when  General  Morgan 
woke  me  up  to  go  with  General  Meade,  to  show  him  where  Gen- 
eral Barlow's  headquarters  were.  Then  I  delivered  a  written  order 
to  General  Mott,  commanding  the  Third  Division,  to  have  his 
command  all  in  readiness  to  attack  at  a  moment's  notice;  came 
back  to  headquarters,  and  while  eating  my  dinner  Gen.  F.  A. 
Walker,  General  Hancock's  Adjutant-General,  who  is  temporarily 
assigned  to  duty  with  General  Birney,  told  me  to  get  ready  to  go 
with  General  Birney  to  the  front  line,  as  he  wished  all  of  our  (Han- 
cock's) staff  to  accompany  him. 

By  the  time  we  were  all  mounted  a  tremendous  firing  was  heard 
in  front.  The  General  ordered  me  to  ride  out  as  fast  as  I  could 
and  ascertain  the  cause.  I  soon  discovered  several  regiments  in 
full  retreat,  and  reported  the  fact  to  General  Birney,  who  rode  to 
Gibbon's  front  line,  where  he  saw  for  himself  the  terrible  condition 
we  were  in,  and  that  we  had  lost  McKnight's  battery  of  artillery, 


io6 

the  first  one  captured  from  our  Corps  since  its  organization.  He 
sent  me  with  orders  to  General  Gibbon  to  recapture  it  at  once,  and 
then  to  General  Meacle  to  get  reinforcements.  I  stopped  by  the 
Jones  House  and  reported  to  General  Hancock  the  result.  He 
sprang  out  of  his  bed,  wild  with  excitement  at  the  bad  news,  but, 
of  course,  the  doctor  would  not  let  him  go  to  the  front,  as  he 
wished  to  do.  He  told  me  to  hasten  to  General  Meade,  who  said 
we  could  get  help  from  the  Fifth  Corps  if  we  needed  it.  I  then 
went  to  see  if  the  battery  had  been  recaptured,  Captain  Parker  go- 
ing with  me,  and  soon  saw  that  it  was  no  use  to  try  to  get  it  with 
our  troops.  I  reported  the  fact  to  General  Hancock,  who  said: 
"For  God's  sake  get  a  division  from  the  Fifth  Corps  at  once,"  and 
in  a  few  minutes  was  with  General  Griffin,  at  the  head  of  his  First 
Division.  Although  he  was  temporarily  in  command  of  the  Fifth 
Corps,  he  remarked  to  me  that  he  had  been  in  readiness  for  some 
time,  as  he  had  expected  that  we  would  need  help.  He  brought 
his  division  up  at  double-quick  time,  and  reported  to  General  Bir- 
ney,  who  told  him  to  hold  the  inner  breastworks,  while  he  made 
another  attempt  to  get  back  the  battery.  Griffin  said  to  me  it  was 
impossible  to  do  so,  and  offered  to  take  his  division  and  do  the 
work,  but  Birney  seemed  too  proud  to  have  it  said  another  Corps 
could  retake  a  lost  battery  that  he  had  failed  to  take  with  such  a 
force  as  he  had  engaged,  and  seemed  to  display  a  feeling  of  jeal- 
ousy for  fear  Griffin  might  receive  the  credit  he  desired  for  himself. 
General  Griffin  seemed  displeased  at  the  refusal  of  General  Birney 
to  allow  him  to  send  a  force  from  his  Corps  to  try  and  recapture 
the  battery,  and  so  expressed  himself  to  me.  Of  course,  General 
Birney  failed  to  get  back  the  battery,  as  his  men  were  all  tired  out 
and  too  much  demoralized  to  make  a  successful  charge  the  third 
time.  We  have  lost  a  great  many  veterans  and  valuable  men  to- 
day, gaining  nothing  worth  mentioning.  It  is  unfortunate  that 
General  Hancock  is  not  able  to  be  out  among  the  men,  as  he  would 
create  an  enthusiasm,  which  appears  lacking  under  General  Birney, 
who,  nevertheless,  does  the  best  he  can,  regardless  of  his  own 
danger  or  fatigue.  I  do  not  believe  there  is  an  officer  in  the  Army 
who  can  excel  General  Hancock  in  handling  a  large  body  of  men 
in  action,  and  my  only  hope  is  that  his  wound  will  not  keep  him 
away  from  his  command  much  longer.  It  is  now  after  n  P.  M., 
but  the  roar  of  artillery  and  bursting  of  shells  around  us  will  not 
prevent  me  from  sleeping,  as  I  am  getting  so  accustomed  to  it  I 
would  not  wake,  if  one  were  to  burst  within  ten  feet  of  me. 

June  23,  1864. 

General  Birney  had  us  all  accompany  him  at  4  o'clock  this  morn- 
ing to  inspect  the  front  line  of  works,  and  found  that  each  Divi- 


167 

sion  Commander  had  established  a  strong  line,  which  was  proved 
this  afternoon,  when  the  Confederates  charged  us,  and  were  forced 
back  into  their  works,  many  being  killed.  Our  loss  has  been  small 
compared  with  that  of  the  enemy.  General  Barlow  has  lost  five 
of  his  staff  officers,  killed  and  wounded,  this  week,  giving  a  chance 
for  five  more  ambitious  young  men,  who  like  active  work,  to  take 
their  places. 

Upon  my  return  to  headquarters  I  found  a  very  doleful  letter 
from  my  father,  who  seemed  to  be  in  a  distressed  condition  of 
mind,  fearing  he  would  never  see  me  again.  The  following  is  an 
extract  of  my  reply  : 


PROF.    J.    O.   ARMES 

You  must  bear  in  mind  that  there  are  thousands  of  fathers, 
North  and  South,  who  have  their  only  child-son  in  the  Army,  ex- 
posed to  the  same  danger  and  hardships  that  I  am,  and  as  you  have 
two  sons  left,  in  case  I  am  killed  you  have  no  good  cause  to  worry, 
but  should  feel  blessed  and  thankful  that  you  are  so  much  better 
off  than  many  fathers.  Of  course,  I  cannot  tell  what  moment  my 
time  may  come,  but  if  this  should  happen  to  be  my  last  letter,  you 


to8 

can  obtain  my  photograph  at  Brady's,  which  was  taken  a  few  days 
ago  at  Cold  Harbor,  standing  by  the  side  of  General  Hancock  and 
the  rest  of  his  staff,  which  is  good  of  all  of  us.  Dear  father,  I  fur- 
ther wish  to  remind  you  that  you  ought  to  feel  proud  of  the  fact 
that  you  have  one  son  out  of  the  three  who  is  doing  his  best  to  help 
save  the  Union.  If  you  have  the  good  luck  to  have  one  killed 
while  doing  his  duty  in  the  field,  it  will  be  to  your  credit. 


Generals  HANCOCK,  BIRNKY,  BAKL.OW,  GIBBON,  TIDBA^L,  and  Staff. 

In  this  letter  to  my  father  I  wrote  as  I  then  felt,  that  it  was  the 
duty  of  every  able-bodied  man  to  come  forward  and  do  his  might 
in  saving  the  Union.  Under  such  circumstances  the  thought  of 
life  or  danger  was  not  to  be  thought  of. 

June  25,  1864. 

After  breakfast  the  firing  on  both  sides  began  to  be  lively,  and 
General  Birney  ordered  us  all  to  accompany  him  to  the  front  lines, 
where  we  remained  until  10  o'clock,  when  General  Morgan  sent 
me  after  the  Corps  officer  of  the  day,  whom  I  found  with  Captain 
Crafts,  who  commands  the  Fifth  New  Hampshire,  the  field  officers 
having  all  been  killed  or  wounded.  Upon  my  return  I  was  sent 
to  inspect  the  whole  line  of  the  Second  Corps,  a  very  dangerous 
duty  to  perform,  as  the  Confederate  sharpshooters  were  on  the 


alert  to  try  to  pick  off  anyone  they  could  who  appeared  in  sight 
above  our  breastworks,  both  sides  amusing  themselves  all  day 
shooting  at  each  other  from  behind  the  works.  Capt.  Clayton 
McMichel,  Ninth  U.  S.  Infantry,  one  of  General  Birney's  staff, 
rode  with  me  along  a  portion  of  the  works,  until  we  came  to  an 
open  space,  which  was  covered  by  a  masked  battery,  when  he  said 


Inspecting  Line  in  Front  of  Masked  Battery. 

he  was  not  going  any  further.  I  told  him  that  my  orders  were  to 
inspect  the  whole  line,  and  that  I  would  have  to  do  it  alone  with 
my  orderly.  So  we  started  across  this  open  space,  when  this  bat- 
tery opened  upon  us,  and  I  put  spurs  to  my  horse  and  headed  for 
a  ravine,  running  right  in  range  of  the  shot  and  shell  for  a  few  mo- 
ments, but  soon  had  the  satisfaction  of  hearing  them  pass  over  our 


no 

heads.  Neither  of  us  were  touched,  but  Captain  McMichel  tried 
to  make  fun  of  us  among  the  officers  for  turning  so  suddenly  and 
making  such  good  speed,  and,  as  he  said,  trying  to  outrun  the 
shell,  but  admitted  that  Uncle  Sam  had  not  enough  money  in  the 
Treasury  to  induce  him  to  try  to  cross  the  same  place.  I  am  his 
guest,  and  we  are  occupying  the  same  tent  tonight,  at  this  writing, 
and  a  popular,  good-natured,  entertaining  man  he  is.  His  father 
is  one  of  the  leading  men  of  Philadelphia. 

June  26,  1864. 

'  After  breakfast  I  was  sent  to  inspect  our  lines  again,  but  as  the 
Confederate  sharpshooters  were  so  extremely  lively,  I  felt  that  it 
would  be  impossible  to  get  through  alive  on  horseback;  so  I  left 
my  orderly  to  hold  the  horses  in  a  safe  place,  and  made  the  trip  on 
foot,  stooping  and  dodging  through  the  trenches  as  the  bullets 
passed  me.  Very  few  men  killed  on  either  side  today. 

June  27,  1864. 

As  matters  seemed  sort  of  quiet,  I  had  a  detail  of  soldiers  plant 
a  lot  of  shade  trees  in  front  of  my  tent,  as  the  weather  is  very  hot, 
and  I  am  about  broken  down  from  overwork  and  need  of  rest. 
This  afternoon  I  got  General  Barlow's  band  to  play  several  pieces 
for  General  Hancock,  who  seemed  to  appreciate  the  music  this 
time.  He  is  much  better  than  he  has  been,  and  assumed  command 
of  the  Corps  this  evening,  sending  General  Birney  back  to  his  (the 
Third)  Division.  We  are  all  fixed  up  comfortably  in  our  tents. 
Everything  is  very  quiet,  but  we  are  all  wide-awake  and  on  the 
watch  not  to  be  taken  by  surprise.  It  is  now  after  n  o'clock  P. 
M.,  and  we  all  have  had  a  pleasant  evening,  and  enjoyed  our  re- 
freshments. 

June  29,  1864. 

We  have  been  fixing  up  strong  works  all  along  our  front  lines ; 
regiments  are  establishing  themselves  in  permanent  quarters,  as 
the  main  fighting  seems  to  be  held  up  on  both  sides  for  the  time 
being,  except  the  exchange  of  a  few  shots  at  each  other  as  pastime. 
General  Morgan  had  me  procure  a  large  number  of  entrenching 
tools  and  distribute  them  to  the  front  lines,  in  order  to  make  the 
works  a  little  more  secure.  This  afternoon  Dr.  Robertson  and  I 
took  a  ride  over  a  number  of  the  battlefields  which  we  have  left 
behind  us,  but  will  be  mentioned  in  the  annals  of  history  in  coming 
years. 

General  Hancock  was  able  to  take  a  horseback  ride  this  even- 
ing, his  staff  accompanying  him.  He  is  much  better,  but  still  keeps 
his  quarters  in  the  Jones  House.  General  Barlow  loaned  me  his 
band  again  to  play  at  our  headquarters,  and  he  came  over  for 
awhile,  and  we  spent  a  very  pleasant  evening-. 


Ill 

Being  pretty  nearly  broken  down  from  hard  work,  and  in  need 
of  rest,  I  made  application  to  General  Grant  to  be  released  from 
staff  duty  and  returned  to  my  command  at  Washington  until  such 
time  as  active  hostilities  begin  again.  He  having  assigned  me  to 
duty  with  General  Hancock,  it  requires  his  order  for  a  release. 

July  4,  1864. 

My  application  to  be  relieved  from  the  staff  was  returned  today 
by  order  of  General  Grant. 

Extract  from  letter  to  my  father  the  night  before  the  above 
order  was  received : 

July  3,  1864. 

From  the  appearance  of  affairs  here  there  must  be  an  agreement 
on  both  sides  not  to  do  any  more  righting  for  awhile. 

^The  breastworks  have  been  so  securely  made  that  no  sudden 
attack  from  the  "Johnnies"  will  allow  our  lines  to  be  entered. 
Many  of  the  officers  who  were  able  had  their  blooded  race-horses 
brought  to  the  Army,  and  a  nice  race-track  was  made,  and  the 
racing  was  commenced  in  earnest.  Col.  James  Brady  of  General 
Miles'  staff  is  the  principal  leader  in  getting  up  all  these  horse 
races,  and  is  generally  the  winner,  and  socially  he  is  a  great  fav- 
orite with  everyone. 

Theaters  have  been  built,  and  all  kinds  of  attractions  are  re- 
sorted to  for  the  entertainment  of  the  soldier  boys  of  the  Army  of 
the  Potomac.  Old  Fat  Andy,  Chief  Sutler  of  the  Army,  has  dis- 
tributed his  supplies  at  different  convenient  points,  and  thousands 
of  the  boys  can  be  seen  smoking  their  cigars  and  patrolling  back 
and  forth  in  squads  of  from  four  to  twelve,  enjoying  themselves 
as  much,  if  not  more,  than  if  they  were  in  their  own  country  town 
and  Barnum's  circus  had  just  opened.  Many  of  the  beautiful 
horses  that  are  now  on  the  track  have  been  captured  or  taken  from 
their  owners'  stables  as  our  Army  marched  through,  but  I  do  not 
believe  that  General  Hancock  knows  anything  about  it,  or  he 
would  make  it  warm  for  some  of  those  who  have  obtained  their 
horses  in  this  manner.  Nor  will  I  ever  forget  his  orders  to  me, 
when  marching  through  the  country,  which  were  to  shoot  anyone 
who  dared  to  molest  private  property  of  any  kind,  or  enter  a  pri- 
vate house  unless  invited  into  it.  It  is  a  grand  sight  to  gaze  upon 
the  churches,  houses,  theaters,  awnings  and  arcades  the  men  of 
our  Army  have  built  and  made  out  of  green  boughs  of  trees  dur- 
ing the  past  three  or  four  days. 

I  would  greatly  enjoy  an  active  part  in  the  horse  racing  if  I  were 
able,  but  my  doctor  advises  me  to  obtain  a  rest  and  change,  or  I 


112 

will  be  unfit  to  perform  duty  if  active  work  begins  again.  So  you 
may  expect  soon  to  see  the  boy  you  have  been  so  anxious  about 
during  the  past  two  months,  unless  the  steamer  blows  up,  or  some 
accident  happens  to  me  en  route  home.  I  enclose  the  following 
letters  handed  me  by  two  of  the  bravest  and  most  daring  Generals 
any  Army  ever  produced,  or  that  anv  Army  could  wish  for — men 
who  do  not  know  what  fear  is,  but  know  how  to  command  and 
handle  their  men  under  fire  until  they  are  killed  and  wounded  by 
the  thousand.  As  this  is  my  last  letter  to  you  before  I  leave  for 
home,  I  will  cut  it  short,  and  say  no  more  until  we  meet  at  home. 

The  following  are  the  letters  handed  to  me  by  Generals  Barlow 
and  Miles  when  I  bade  them  good-bye  ;  the  originals  I  still  possess 
and  have  never  had  occasion  to  use,  but  hold  them  as  precious 
mementoes  from  gallant  men  with  whom  I  was  daily  brought' in 
contact  on  the  field  of  battle  : 


•A  ••     <n~£z^£ji^<^^C     s-Z-sv 


Headquarters  First  Brigade,  First  Division,  Second  Army  Corps, 

July  3,  1864. 

Lieut.  G.  A.  Armes  has  served  on  staff  duty  in  this  Corps  during 
the  campaign  from  Spottsylvania  to  Petersburg,  Va.,  and  in  the 
engagements  of  Spottsylvania  Court  House,  Talapotony,  North 
Anna,  Cold  Harbor  and  before  Petersburg.  He  has  conducted 
himself  with  great  credit  and  advantage  to  the  service. 

NELSON  A.  MILES, 
Brig.-Gen.  Commanding  Brig. 

Besides*verbally  complimenting  me  several  times  during  the 
campaign  from  the  Wilderness  to  Petersburg,  General  Hancock 


H4 

handed  me  as  strong  a  letter  as  he  could  well  pen,  requesting  my 
promotion  to  a  Captain,  which  position  was  afterward  given  me 
in  the  Second  New  York  Heavy  Artillery. 

The  preceding  letter  from  General  Grant  was  handed  me  before 
I  left  the  front,  on  which  I  obtained  the  following  endorsement  : 


After  bidding  General  Hancock  and  staff  good-bye,  and  parting 
on  friendly  terms  with  all,  I  proceeded  to  City  Point,  General 
Grant's  headquarters,  where  I  remained  several  days,  and  then 


reported  to  my  regiment  at  Washington  for  duty.  I  was  just  in 
time  to  take  an  active  part  in  the  defense  of  that  city,  being  put 
in  command  of  the  front  line  during  the  attack  made  by  General 
Early,  near  Fort  Stevens,  in  July,  1864,  where  the  firing  was  kept 
up  quite  lively  for  a  time. 

When  Early  assaulted  Fort  Stevens,  where  Brightwood  is  now 
situated,  President  Lincoln  came  out  to  witness  the  battle,  and 
persisted  in  climbing  upon  the  parapet,  thus  exposing  himself  to 
the  fire  of  the  enemy.  Being  frequently  cautioned  by  the  com- 
manding officer  not  to  make  a  target  of  himself,  he  was  finally  told 
that  if  he  again  exposed  himself  he  (the  officer)  would  be  forced 
tc  place  him  under  arrest.  Mr.  Lincoln  smilingly  replied :  "Well, 
I  reckon  I  had  better  obey  orders,  then."  And  yet  at  that  moment 
Mr.  Lincoln  was  Commander-iri-Chief  of  the  Army  and  Navy  oi 
the  United  States.  This  was  the  first  instance  in  the  war  that  he 
was  personally  on  the  field  of  battle  and  under  the  fire  of  the 
enemy,  and  at  that  time  Fort  Stevens  was  under  a  very  hot  fire 
from  the  batteries  of  Jubal  Early. 

This  earthwork,  called  Fort  Stevens,  is  still  in  a  fair  state  of 
preservation,  and  the  same  is  true  of  the  little  cemetery,  about 
three-fourths  of  a  mile  north  of  it,  on  the  Brightwood  road,  where 
the  Union  soldiers  who  fell  in  that  battle  were  buried.  It  is  now 
a  National  Cemetery. 

But  for  the  timely  arrival  of  the  Sixth  Corps  and  a  portion  of 
the  Nineteenth  Veteran  Relief  Corps  Jubal  Early  would  doubtless 
have  captured  Washington.  It  was  owing  to  the  existence  of  Fort 
Stevens  and  the  neighboring  rifle  pits  that  our  troops  were  enabled 
to  repulse  General  Early's  attacks  on  the  I2th  of  July,  1864.  This 
and  Fort  Reno,  on  the  bluff  at  Tennallytown,  were  the  two  forts 
out  of  the  whole  chain  of  fortifications  surrounding  the  city  of 
Washington  that  were  the  means  of  keeping  the  Confederate 
Army  out  of  the  city.  The  guns  of  Fort  Reno  during  the  Gettys- 
burg campaign  prevented  the  Confederate  General  Stuart  and  his 
splendid  cavalry  command  from  entering  the  city  from  that  di- 
rection. The  author  participated  in  the  battle  at  Fort  Stevens, 
and,  although  quite  ill,  not  until  his  regiment  was  relieved  and 
ordered  to  Arlington  Heights  did  he  give  up,  and  b"  order  of  his 


n6 

doctor  take  to  his  bed.  Feeling  that  his  regiment  might  have 
some  active  work  on  hand,  he  obtained  a  pass  td  join  it  at  once, 
unknown  to  his  doctor  or  any  member  of  his  family. 

I  took  with  me  the  following  letter  for  use,  if  necessary,  as 
everyone  granted  a  pass  had  to  be  identified  in  some  way,  for  the 
capture  of  Washington  seemed  certain  unless  the  strictest  meas- 
ures were  adopted : 

Soldiers'  Rest, 

Washington,  D.  C,  May  5,  1864. 
Brigadier-General  Martindale: 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  recommend  to  your  consideration 
Lieut.  G.  A.  Armes,  formerly  of  the  Sixteenth  Virginia  Vols.,  now 
of  the  "Veteran  Reserve  Corps.''  -He  has  been  long  and  favorably 
known  to  me  as  an  officer  and  gentleman. 

I  have  the  honor  to  remain,  General,         Yours, 

(Signed)         E.  M.  CAMP, 
Capt.,  A.  Q.  M.,  A.  A.  D.  C. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  July  16,  1864. 

Lieut.  George  A.  Armes  has  served  under  my  command  several 
months;  he  is  active,  energetic  and  efficient,  and  I  earnestly  rec- 
ommend him  for  promotion. 

EDW.  W.  HINKS, 

Brig.-Gen.  U.  S.  Vols. 

My  duties  were  to  drill,  go  on  duty  as  Officer  of  the  Day,  patrol 
the  city,  etc. 

On  the  first  of  August  I  was  made  an  Inspecting  Officer  in  ad- 
dition to  commanding  a  company. 

The  performance  of  this  duty  apparently  proved  satisfactory, 
for  I  was  relieved  from  garrison  duty,  although  in  command  of  a 
company,  and  assigned  as  a  special  inspector. 

My  company  having  been  ordered  to  Elmira,  N.  Y.,  while  I  was 
on  inspection  duty,  the  Assistant  Quartermaster  endorsed  the 
following  on  my  order : 

Washington,  D.  C.,  September  5,  1864. 
Transportation  furnished  to  Elmira,  N.  Y. 

BENJ.  BURTON, 

Capt.,  A.  Q.  M. 


Upon  reporting  to  my  company,  I  was  detailed  as  Officer  of  the 
Guard  about  three  times  a  week,  to  keep  watch  of  the  Rebel  pris- 
oners, who  were  held  in  frame  barracks,  surrounded  by  a  high 
board  fence,  where  sentries,  inside  and  out,  paced  their  beats  at  all 
hours. 

When  not  on  duty  I  enjoyed  the  hospitality  of  many  of  Elmira's 
best  citizens,  who  gave  parties,  dined  and  entertained  the  military 
in  their  midst  to  the  best  of  their  ability.  But  my  stay  was  not 
destined  to  be  of  long  duration  in  the  comparative  quiet  of  Elmira. 
An  order  came  from  Washington  sending  our  company  to  Utica, 
N.  Y.,  and  during  their  stay  in  that  city  our  men  were  quartered 
in  the  basement  of  one  of  the  principal  churches,  while  the  Cap- 
tain and  myself  lodged  in  a  private  house  nearby. 

Among  the  pleasant  people  who  made  us  feel  perfectly  at  home 
I  recall  especially  the  families  of  Senator  Kernan,  Colonel  Mc- 
Quade  and  Mr.  Hopkins.  Captain  Kendrick,  being  a  member  of 
the  Seventh  New  York  Regiment,  would  often  take  a  seven  days' 
leave  and  visit  New  York  city,  to  mingle  with  such  of  his  com- 
rades as  were  not  in  the  field,  leaving  me  in  command  of  the  com- 
pany. We  used  to  drill  in  the  public  square,  which  would  often  be 
filled  with  spectators,  and  it  afforded  the  Captain  a  great  deal  of 
amusement,  at  times,  to  see  me  deploy  his  company  as  skirmish- 
ers, with  fixed  bayonets,  and  charge  the  crowd,  which  would  scat- 
ter pell-mell  in  every  direction. 

Having  little  duty  to  perform  aside  from  the  daily  drill,  I  took 
advantage  of  the  opportunity  to  visit  Albany,  Rochester,  Rome 
and  many  other  places  around  Utica.  One  could  not  wish  for  a 
more  enjoyable  time  than  we  passed  while  on  duty  in  this  pleasant 
little  city  of  Central  New  York. 

The  headquarters  of  the  regiment  at  Buffalo,  N.  Y.,  where  the 
band  was  kept  by  the  commanding  officer  for  his  amusement  and 
entertainment,  at  the  expense  of  the  officers  and  such  men  as 
would  contribute  may  serve  to  remind  many  how  it  was  in  war 
times,  especially  those  who  paid  to  keep  up  the  music,  but  never 
heard  the  band  play. 

Readers  can  see  that  I  was  responsible  for  the  men  placed  in 
my  charge,  to  deliver,  as  much  so,  as  if  they  were  negro  slaves, 


n8 

being  conducted  from  one  State  to  another  before  the  war,  only 
then,  on  the  escape  of  a  slave,  the  civil  law  would  have  taken  hold, 
and,  in  my  case,  if  a  soldier  should  happen  to  get  away  from  me, 
I  would  have  to  appeal  to  the  military.  I  must  not  fail  to  mention 
that  just  before  complying  with  the  above  order  I  learned  that  I 
had  been  especially  recommended  to  the  Governor  of  New  York 
for  a  Captaincy  in  the  Fifteenth  Regiment  N.  Y.  Engineer  Corps, 
and  by  calling  upon  the  Adjutant-General  at  Albany  would  re- 
ceive my  commission.  I  at  once  made  application  for  leave, 
which  was  granted. 

Upon  reaching  Albany  I  met  Lieutenant-Colonel  Palmer  of 
the  Second  New  York  on  the  street,  and  he  seemed  delighted,  as 
he  had  not  seen  nor  heard  from  me  since  I  had  bidden  him  good- 
bye only  a  few  weeks  before  at  the  front.  I  soon  informed  him 
of  my  status,  and  showed  him  my  notice  of  appointment  in  the 
Fifteenth  New  York,  and  he  at  once  requested  me  to  come  into 
his  regiment,  and  upon  his  endorsement,  which  was  made  upon 
the  notice  I  had  received  from  the  Adjutant-General,  Governor 
Seymour  consented  to  change  me  to  the  Second  New  York 
Heavy  Artillery,  and  my  commission  as  Captain  was  made  out 
and  handed  to  me  before  I  left  the  Governor's  room,  who  enter- 
tained me  in  his  usual  pleasant  way  and  explained  that  General 
Hancock  had  made  a  strong  and  special  request  in  my  behalf. 
So  I  was  greatly  indebted  to  Colonel  Palmer  for  his  endorse- 
ment and  advice  to  go  in  the  Secpnd  New  York,  which  I  have 
never  regretted  to  this  day.  Upon  my  return  to  Elmira  I  called 
upon  General  Diven  and  showed  him  my  commission  as  Captain. 
He  asked  my  age.  I  told  him  nineteen.  He  at  once  grasped  my 
hand,  congratulating  me  and  wishing  me  further  success,  and  at 
once  wrote  the  following  letter  to  help  me  get  out  of  the  V.  R.  C. : 

Headquarters  A.  A.  Provost  Marshal  General  and  Superintendent 
Recruiting  Service,  Western  Division,  State  of  New  York, 

Elmira,  October  13,  1864. 

This  is  to  certify  that  Lieut.  Geo.  A.  Armes  has  been  on  duty 
in  this  district  in  the  Veteran  Reserve  Corps;  has  discharged  his 
duty  faithfully.  Having  been  commissioned  a  Captain  in  the  Sec- 


H9 

ond  New  York  Heavy  Artillery,  I  recommend  that  he  be  mustered 
out  of  the  Veteran  Reserve  Corps,  to  enable  him  to  accept  such 
commission.  He  should  be  allowed  a  short  time,  if  he  so  desires, 
to  settle  the  business  connected  with  his  company. 

(Signed)        A.  S.  DIVEN, 
Brig.-Gen.  Com.  Mil.  Dist.  Western  N.  Y. 

I  soon  learned  that  I  could  not  be  mustered  into  the  Second 
New  York  until  my  resignation  was  accepted  as  Second  Lieu- 
tenant, V.  R.  C.,  which  I  sent  to  the  War  Department  as  soon 
as  I  returned  from  Baltimore,  at  once  transferring  all  my  prop- 
erty and  funds,  was  ready  to  start  for  the  front.  But  the  accept- 
ance of  my  resignation  had  not  come,  so  I  applied  for  and  received 
the  following : 

Special  Order  Elmira,  N.  Y.,  October  5,  1864. 

No.  364. — Extract. 

Leave  of  absence  for  seven  days  is  hereby  granted  to  the  follow- 
ing-named officer:  Second  Lieut.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  Nineteenth 
Regiment,  V.  R.  C.  By  order  of 

COL.  B.  F.  TRACY. 
(Signed)         CHAS.  S.  BARTON, 

Capt.  and  Asst.  Adj. -Gen. 

The  night  before  I  left  Elmira  a  farewell  party  was  given  me 
>y  my  brother  officers,  among  whom  was  my  Captain,  who  is  now 
an  officer  in  the  Seventh  United  States  Infantry,  and  I  am  sorry 
to  say  I  have  not  met  him  since  he  bade  me  farewell  at  the  Elmira 
Depot,  October  31,  1864. 

November  2,  1864,  found  me  in  Washington,  when  I  called  at 
the  War  Department  to  find  out  the  cause  of  delay  in  acceptance 
of  my  resignation,  and  was  informed  that  it  had  been  accepted, 
being  sent  through  my  Colonel  at  Buffalo.  As  I  was  anxious  to 
reach  the  front,  I  requested  and  was  given  a  copy. 

Within  five  days  after  receiving  the  above  I  was  on  duty  with 
my  regiment  and  in  command  of  one  of  its  best  companies  in 
the  field  in  the  front  of  Petersburg,  Va.  The  following  is  an 
extract  from  "muster-in  roll  of  Capt.  G.  A.  Armes  in  the  Second 
Regiment  of  New  York  Artillery,  Volunteers,  commanded  by 


Ho 

Col.  Joseph  Whistler,  called  into  the  service  of  the  United 
States  by  the  President  on  the  7th  day  of  November,  1864,  for  the 
term  of  three  years,  unless  sooner  discharged :" 

Remarks:  Appointed  vice 'Captain  Clark,  discharged;  muster 
to  date,  November  7,  1864.  1  certify  I  have  carefully  examined 
the  above-named  officer  who  is  borne  on  this  roll,  and  have  ac- 
cepted him  into  the  service  of  the  United  States  for  the  term  of 
three  years,  unless  sooner  discharged,  from  the  7th  day  of  No- 
vember, 1864. 

(Signed)         W.  S.  WOOD, 
First  Lieut,  and  A.  C.  M.  Mustering  Officer. 
Station  near  Petersburg,  Va. 
Approved:   (Signed)         M.  H.  STACY, 

First  Lieut.  Twelfth  U.  S.  Infantry,  Second  A.  C 

Upon  reporting  for  duty  I  found  Major  George  Hogg  in  com- 
mand of  the  regiment.  I  was  sent  out  on  picket  duty  with  my 
company  (E),  where  I  would  remain  from  twenty-four  to  forty- 
eight  hours,  and  then  be  relieved  by  some  other  company.  Then 
I  would  return  to  camp  and  there  go  on  duty  as  Officer  of  the 
Day,  but  would  drill  my  men  in  addition.  There  being  a  number 
of  vacancies  and  non-commissioned  officers  scarce,  uninformed 
of  the  reason  of  that  condition  of  things,  I  issued  my  first  order, 
making  the  following  promotions :  Corporals  were  promoted  to 
sergeants  as  follows :  Isaac  P.  Clarke,  A.  Cook,  Myrick  and 
Theodore  H.  Musson.  A  like  number  of  privates  were  made 
corporals. 

I  at  once  began  to  take  pride  in  having  one  of  the  best  com- 
panies in  the  regiment  or  division,  as  it  did  not  take  me  long  to 
find  out  that  the  men  were  of  a  more  intelligent  -class  than  the 
average  soldiers  I  had  been  dealing  with  previously,  and  in  spite 
of  my  ups  and  downs  I  have  never  regretted  belonging  to  it,  al- 
though I  entered  it  under  very  unfavorable  circumstances. 
Being  a  perfect  stranger  and  from  an  outside  State,  it  is  not  to 
be  supposed  that  everyone  in  the  regiment  should  be  my  friend. 
It  was  perfectly  natural  that  many  of  the  members  would  look 
upon  me  as  an  intruder  on  my  accepting  a  commission  which  each 
one  thought  should  have  been  tendered  to  himself.  Further,  the 


fact  that  a  boy  of  nineteen  years  was  placed  over  men  and  officers 
many  of  whom  were  old  enough  to  be  his  father,  and  in  a  few  in- 
stances his  grandfather,  was  another  obstacle  I  had  to  contend 
against.  And,  above  all,  the  commanding  officer  being  so  dif- 
ferent in  his  habits,  was  hostile  towards  me  from  the  day  I  re- 
ported for  duty.  In  addition  to  being  in  command  of  my  com- 
pany I  was  required  to  go  on  duty  very  often  as  Brigade  Officer 
of  the  Day,  the  field  officers  of  the  command  being  so  scarce  that 
the  senior  Captains  of  regiments  were  selected  to  perform  the 
duty.  I  was  very  fond  of  the  duty  in  spite  of  the  danger  attached 
to  it,  as  I  felt  proud  of  the  very  important  responsibility  with 
which  I  was  entrusted. 

After  we  had  fixed  up  our  dug-outs,  which  were  very  comfort- 
able when  the  mud  chimneys  worked  well  and  did  not  smoke  us 
out  or  when  a  shell  thrown  from  the  enemy's  works  into  our  camp 
did  not  suddenly  hustle  us  from  a  sound  sleep.  We  felt  as  if  we 
would  at  least  remain  there  through  the  winter.  General  Grant 
would  not  or  could  not  have  the  heart,  we  thought,  to  take  us 
away  from  our  nice  little  houses  which  we  had  worked  so  hard 
to  build  and  put  us  in  the  mud  and  snow  where  there  was  no 
prospect  of  getting  fixed  comfortably  again  during  the  winter. 
Especially  would  he  not  move  us  to  a  place  where  the  shell  would 
burst  over  and  around  us  during  the  night  only  to  make  a  fine 
display  as  a  substitute  for  fireworks.  Feeling,  therefore,  that  I 
could  get  off,  I  sent  in  an  application  for  two  days'  leave,  which 
was  approved  until  it  reached  Gen.  Nelson  A.  Miles,  who  disap- 
proved it.  In  consequence  of  this  the  application  came  back  to 
me  through  the  regular  military  channels  from  Second  Army 
Corps  headquarters  disapproved. 

Camp  Second  N.  Y.  H.  A.,  December  6,  1864. 
To  Benson  Stedman, 

Adj.  Second  N.  Y.  H.  A.: 

Sir — I  respectfully  request  permission  to  go  to  City  Point  on 
business  for  two  days.    I  have  the  honor  to  be, 
Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES, 
Capt.  Com.  Co.  E,  Second  N.  Y.  H.  A. 


122 


I  was  badly  worried,  and  at  first  could  not  account  for  what  I 
thought  was  a  snub  or  rebuke  for  something  I  had  neglected, 
although  I  had  not  missed  an  hour  from  duty  since  I  had  joined 
my  regiment.  The  fact  that  I  believed  General  Miles  to  be 
friendly  and  to  read  his  disapproval  endorsed  upon  my  applica- 
tion after  it  had  been  approved  up  to  him  made  me  very 
despondent.  I  could  not  help  but  feel  blue,  being  of  a  very  sen- 
sitive nature.  I  was  in  need  of  a  few  things  which  could  not  be 
procured  except  at  City  Point,  and  supposed,  of  course,  the  com- 
manding officer  of  the  regiment  could  grant  me  the  two  days  I 
wished,  but  he  could  do  nothing  but  forward  every  application 
to  corps  headquarters,  no  discretion  being  allowed  any  officer 
under  the  Major-General  to  grant  permission  for  officers  or  men 
to  go  from  their  commands.  As  it  was  the  first  disapproval  I  had 
ever  had  upon  an  application  of  any  kind  since  entering  the 
Army,  it  made  me  sick,  and  while  trying  to  think  of  something 
I  had  done  to  give  cause  for  the  disapproval  I  was  sent  for  by 
the  Major  commanding  the  regiment,  and  until  I  appeared  in  his 
presence  imagined  something  terrible  was  going  to  happen  to 
me;  but  upon  reporting — I  found  him  in 'his  usual  condition, 
drunk — he  mumbled  out  that  he  had  sent  for  all  of  his  company 
commanders  to  quietly  inform  them  that  the  regiment  was  to 
move  during  the  night,  and  to  have  our  companies  in  readiness 
to  move  at  a  moment's  notice,  with  three  days'  rations  in  the 
haversacks  and  one  hundred  rounds  of  ammunition  to  each  man, 
and  to  go  in  light  marching  order.  I  at  once  begun  to  cheer  up, 
and  grew  perfectly  well  in  less  than  an  hour  at  the  prospect  of 
again  going  into  active  service.  I  gave  the  necessary  orders,  and 
my  company  was  ready  to  a  man.  In  a  very  short  time  I  had  a 
close  inspection,  and  let  all  the  men  who  wished  go  to  sleep,  put- 
ting extra  sentries  to  warn  them  when  necessary  to  fall  in  line. 

On  December  9,  1864,  we  were  all  on  the  march  before  daylight, 
and  made  a  halt  about  nine  o'clock  in  the  woods  near  Hatcher's 
Run,  where  we  listened  to  the  heavy  firing  along  our  front  and 
the  lines  to  the  right  and  left,  expecting  every  moment  to  be 
called  into  action.  About  12  M.  Gen.  Nelson  A.  Miles  rode  up  to 
Major  Hogg,  who  was  then  in  command  of  the  regiment,  and 


123 

asked  for  volunteers  to  -take  the  works  at  Hatcher's  Run.  The 
Major  referred  him  to  me  as  the  only  one  whom  he  thought 
would  volunteer  to  attempt  such  a  dangerous  task.  I  was  then 
in  comamnd  of  the  right  wing  of  the  regiment,  and  was  called 
upon  to  volunteer,  but  I  told  General  Miles  I  would  not  volunteer 
to  undertake  a  job  of  that  kind,  but  if  it  was  his -orders  to  charge 
the  works  I  would  take  them  if  I  lived  and  was  not  disabled  be- 
fore reaching  them.  He  then  gave  me  the  order  and  to  select  as 
many  men  as  I  wished  from  any  regiment  in  liis  division.  I  pre- 
pared to  take  my  own  company,  E,  and  the  color  company,  C,  of 
the  regiment.  General  Miles  then  explained  that  two  regiments 
of  his  division  that  had  undertaken  to  capture  the  works  had  been 
driven  back  with  many  men  killed  and  wounded,  left  where  they 
fell,  some  of  them  being  still  in  the  water  where  they  were  shot 
down.  The  stream  had  been  dammed  up  below,  causing  the 
water  to  overflow  the  banks  on  each  side,  and  the  men  had  to 
wade  in  water  from  one  to  three  feet  deep  before  they  would 
reach  the  main  stream,  where  they  would  step  off  the  edge  of  the 
bank  and  suddenly  go  down,  some  men  sinking  out  of  sight  with 
the  heavy  weight  of  cartridges,  equipments,  etc.,  they  wore. 
While  the  men  were  in  the  water  Johnny  Reb  was  behind  his 
entrenchments  on  the  other  side  firing  at  the  men  of  the  first  regi- 
ment who  undertook  the  job  of  getting  the  works,  and  which, 
after  getting  into  the  bed  of  the  stream,  lost  all  hope,  and 
instead  of  trying  to  crawl  up  into  the  works,  did  their  best  to  get 
back  to  where  they  entered.  Many  could  not  swim.  The  Second 
Regiment  charged.  They  acted  as  if  they  would  go  right  into 
Richmond  before  they  stopped,  but  they  didn't.  They  only  got 
out  into  the  water  a  little  way  when  the  bullets  buzzed  like  swarms 
of  bees,  and  instead  of  trying  to  cross  over,  the  whole  regiment 
turned  back.  Then  it  was  that  General  Miles  became  excited  and 
called  for  volunteers ;  but  the  moans  and  cries  of  the  dying  and 
wounded  who  were  covered  by  the  guns  of  the  rebels  who  were 
behind  these  entrenchments,  and  many  being  in  the  water,  made 
it  look  like  certain  death  for  any  human  being  to  venture  across. 
So  the  General  could  not  get  a  volunteer.  He  told  me  he  was  con- 
fident of  winning  the  day  if  a  few  of  the  men  would  only  go  into 


the  works;  that  he  would  follow  with  his  division  and  secure 
them.  The  signal  was  to  be  the  firing  of  five  guns,  and  at  the 
fifth  I  was  to  charge.  I  marched  down  as  near  the  works  as  I 
could,  when  the  bullets  began  to  come  past  us  lively,  when  I  or- 
dered the  men  to  lie  down,  and  I  protected  myself  as  well  as 
possible  behind  a  big  tree  and  took  a  view  of  the  situation,  which 
looked  very  discouraging,  though  I  did  not  show  my  thoughts, 
but  between  the  firing  of  the  guns  ordered  the  men  to  divest 
themselves  of  everything"  unnecessary  to  use  in  the  charge ;  to 
fix  bayonets  and  prepare  themselves  for  a  hand-to-hand  contest, 
and  if  there  was  a  man  in  the  command  who  felt  as  if  he  could 
not  go  into  the  works  to  say  so  before  we  started,  as  I  did  not  wish 
a  man  to  turn  back,  and  if  there  was  but  one  more  left  I  wanted 
him  found  in  the  works.  Only  one  man  of  the  command  com- 
plained. His  excuse  was  rheumatism,  and  a  large  family  de- 
pended upon  him,  and  if  killed  they  would  be  in  a  terrible  condi- 
tion. I  told  the  first  sergeant  he  might  leave  Mr.  (?)  Carr  in 
charge  of  the  knapsacks  and  property  left  by  the  men.  That 
order  seemed  to  please  Carr  in  spite  of  the  boys  reviling  him.  All 
my  men  seemed  in  the  best  of  spirits,  and  at  the  sound  of  the 
fourth  gun  I  commanded  "Attention !"  when  every  man  sprang 
up,  and  at  the  fifth  gun  I  gave  the  command  "Forward,  guide 
center,  march !"  After  reaching  the  water  we  charged  through 
it,  crawling  up  and  working  our  bodies  through  the  obstacles 
placed  in  the  space  between  the  bank  of  the  stream  and 
the  breastworks ;  then  over  we  went  into  the  works,  many  of  our 
brave  boys  being  shot  or  bayoneted  through  while  dragging 
themselves  with  their  heavy  wet  clothes  up  the  steep  embank- 
ment, behind  which  Johnny  Reb  thought  himself  secure,  but  to 
his  sudden  surprise  found  it  necessary  to  let  the  Second  New 
York  Heavy  Artillery  take  charge  of  them,  while  they  thought 
it  would  be  more  beneficial  to  their  health  to  be  nearer  Richmond, 
as  the  climate  around  Hatcher's  Run  was  a  little  too  warm. 

It  must  have  been  an  interesting  sight  for  the  spectators  to 
sit  and  watch  Companies  E  and  C  struggling  in  the  water  with  the 
bullets  whizzing  past  like  bees  and  spattering  the  water  in  our 
faces  while  we  were  endeavoring  to  cross  over  and  charge  up  the 
ramparts,  which  we  could  not  have  held  but  for  General  Miles' 


125 


CLT, 


Charge  at  Hatcher's  Run,  Va.,  1864. 

promptness  in  following  right  after  us  with  his  division,  which 
saved  us,  as  I  do  not  believe  one  of  the  Second  New  York  would 
have  been  spared  after  he  had  got  inside  the  works  if  the  large 
force  of  General  Miles  had  not  followed  us  so  close  with  his 
pioneers,  who  bridged  the  stream  with  the  roofs  of  stables  and 
sheds  and  old  wagons,  logs,  benches  and  everything  that  could 
be  thrown  into  it  to  aid  the  troops  in  crossing. 

I  was  unfortunately  stunned  in  a  hand-to-hand  encounter  with 
a  "Johnnie"  as  I  was  going  into  the  works,  and  after  coming  to, 
I  have  been  since  told,  my  first  question  was  to  know  if  we  had 
captured  the  works. 

Your  humble  servant  was  bayoneted  in  the  jaw  and  throat,  and 
for  some  time  left  for  dead,  while  many  of  the  men  were  stabbed 
through  and  through  while  crawling  into  the  works. 

Quoting  from  my  diary  of  December  10,  1864, 1  said  I  am  sorry 
we  failed  to  go  right  into  Petersburg,  as  the  command  made  such  a 
desperate  effort  to  do  so,  but  we  have  gained  a  good  deal  of  ground 


126 

with  small  loss  on  our  side,  but  rather  heavy  for  the  other.  The 
rest  of  the  regiment  crossed  over  and  came  into  the  works  close 
after  Companies  E  and  C,  Major  Hogg-  commanding  the  regi- 
ment until  it  reached  the  water,  but  there  he  and  his  horse,  I  have 
been  told,  had  some  trouble  about  crossing.  After  my  return  to 
camp  I  soon  discovered  that  I  had  not  committed  any  offense 
by  applying  for  a  two  davs'  leave,  as  the  reason  for  not  granting 
it  was  that  my  services  were  needed  in  the  contemplated  move 
General  Miles  had  planned  to  take  place  December  9,  1864.  The 
fact  is,  that  within  a  week  after  the  capture  of  the  works  at 
Hatcher's  Run,  to  my  utter  surprise  and  without  the  least  hint  or 
expectation  that  I  had  been  noticed  any  more  than  thousands  ot 
others  who  had  been  in  larger — as  I  thought — and  more  severe 
fights  or  battles  than  Hatcher's  Run,  was  the  announcement  of 
my  name  in  General  Orders  No.  266  from  the  headquarters  of  the 
First  Division,  Second  Army  Corps,  December  14,  1864,  of  which 
the  following  is  an  extract : 

The  Brigadier-General  commanding  desires  to  express  his 
gratification  at  the  gallant  manner  in  which  the  passage  of 
Hatcher's  Run  was  forced  on  the  Qth  inst,  in  the  face  of  an  en- 
trenched enemy  and  other  obstacles,  by  which  he  had  made  it  so 
difficult. 

To  Capt.  George  A.  Armes  and  Second  Lieut.  O.  F.  Bliss  of  the 
Second  New  York  Artillery,  who  crossed  at  the  head  of  the  troops, 
is  credit  due  for  their  gallant  conduct  and  example.  The  affair, 
with  that  of  October  27,  when  100  men  of  the  One  Hundred  and 
Forty-eighth  Pennsylvania  Volunteers,  under  Capt.  J.  E.  Brown, 
assaulted  and  captured  a  fort  of  the  enemy  opposite  Fort  Morton, 
proves  that  any  position  can  be  carried  by  resolute  and  determined 
soldiers,  when  led  by  skillful  and  gallant  officers.  Captain  Brown's 
gallantry  has  been  recognized  by  promotion  to  rank  of  Brevet  Ma- 
jor, and  it  will  give  the  General  commanding  pleasure  to  recom- 
mend for  brevet  the  officers  who  distinguished  themselves  at 
Hatcher's  Run. 

By  order  of 

BRTG.-GEN.  MILES. 
W.  R.  DRIVER, 

Maj.  and  Asst.  Adjt.-Gen. 
Headquarters  First  Brigade,  First  Division,  Second  Army  Corps, 


127 

December  14,  1864. 
Official:  (Signed)         SAML.  S.  KERR, 

Capt.  and  Asst.  Adjt.-Gen. 

Headquarters  Second  New  York  Artillery,  December  31,  1864. 
Official:  (Signed)         B.  F.  STEDMAN, 

First  Lieut,  and  Asst.  Adjutant. 

From  the  fact  that  after  two  veteran  regiments  had  failed  to 
capture  or  get  into  the  works  ours  in  a  charge  not  only  took  the 
works,  but  forced  a  general  stampede  of  the  whole  rebel  line, 
causing  our  side  to  win  the  victory  of  the  day  and  Brigadier- 
General  Miles  to  gain  the  extra  star  of  a  Major-General,  being 
mentioned  in  general  orders  for  one  of  the  most  gallant  charges 
made  during  the  war,  our  regiment  was  further  confirmed  in  its 
gallant  record.  Not  only  will  it  be  mentioned  in  history,  but 
every  man  who  was  engaged  there  cannot  but  feel  proud  of  the 
notice  and  complimentary  orders  by  General  Miles  recognizing 
and  giving  them  credit  for  performing  their  duty  so  faithfully. 

I  was  sorry  not  to  see  the  names  of  Sergeants  Musson  and 
Oliver  in  the  order  of  General  Miles  complimenting  me  for  cap- 
turing the  works,  as  those  two  brave  and  gallant  soldiers  followed 
close  to  me  in  the  desperate  charge,  and  deserve  a  medal  of  honor 
for  their  brave  conduct,  considering  that  this  was  one  of  the  most 
desperate  and  dangerous  assaults,  which  could  not  have  been  car- 
ried through  but  for  the  assistance  and  gallantry  of  the  men  who 
did  the  work  and  deserve  the  credit  as  much  as  myself;  in  fact, 
great  credit  is  due  every  man  who  followed  me  on  that  desperate 
charge.  As  General  Miles  says  in  the  complimentary  order  pub- 
lished to  the  Army,  "It  is  proven  that  any  position  can  be  car- 
ried by  resolute  and  determined  soldiers  when  led  by  skillful  and 
gallant  officers." 

I  must  not  fail  to  mention  the  name  of  Private  Hector  Hale, 
who,  since  the  war,  has  made  himself  very  popular  and  useful  in 
purchasing  and  publishing  the  Oneida  Free  Press  and  keeping 
together  the  organization  of  the  old  Second  New  York  Artillery. 
Among  others  I  feel  it  my  duty  to  mention  Maj.  O.  F.  Hulser. 
who  proved  his  true  friendship  to  me  by  acts  and  deeds  in  times 


128 

of  need,  and  who  is  now  enjoying  life  at  his  retreat  in  the  Adiron- 
dacks,  where  he  entertains  his  friends  in  princely  style. 

Up  to  that  time  the  officers  of  the  regiment,  including  the 
commanding  officer,  Major  Hogg,  had  done  everything  they 
could  to  make  the  position  disagreeable  for  me.  He  was  in  a 
drunken  and  disgraceful  condition  most  of  the  time,  but  soon 
after  this  general  order  was  promulgated  there  was  a  sudden 
change,  and  I  became  one  of  the  most  popular  officers  in  the  regi- 
ment from  the  simple  fact  that  I  was  the  means  of  its  being  men- 
tioned in  general  orders  and  complimented  for  the  first  time  dur- 
ing the  war,  notwithstanding  the  many  battles  and  engagements 
in  which  it  had  participated  during-  the  campaign  from  the  Wil- 
derness to  Petersburg.  However,  it  created  quite  a  jealousy  and 
envy  among  a  number  of  outsiders  in  the  first  division. 

The  first  time  I  had  occasion  to  notice  the  feeling  outside  of  my 
regiment  was  in  a  report  made  by  Colonel  Crafts  of  the  Fifth 
New  Hampshire  Volunteers,  which  was  referred  to  me  for  a  reply. 
As  Colonel  Crafts  had  been  absent  from  his  regiment  most  of  the 
time  when  it  was  composed  of  good  men  and  officers,  who  were 
most  all  killed  and  wounded  in  battle,  he  was  advanced  in  rank 
and  got  command  of  the  regiment  after  it  had  been  filled  up  with 
recruits  and  substitutes,  and  not  having  been  noticed  in  orders  by 
any  of  the  officers  over  him,  he  felt  jealous  of  any  public  notice 
in  the  part  I  took  at  Hatcher's  Run,  and  made  an  uncalled-for 
report  to  the  General  commanding  the  brigade. 


CHAPTER  IV. 

January  6,   1865. 

I  always  made  it  a  rule  not  to  show  partiality  to  men  of  my 
company,  but  as  young  Collins  (Brown)  was  a  bright  boy  and  a 
good  penman  I  selected  him  as  company  clerk.  His  father's  let- 
ter to  me  was  only  a  sample  of  hundreds  I  have  received  from 
parents  whose  sons  were  in  my  command  since  I  entered  the 
Army.  Some  of  the  best  men  North  enlisted  in  the  artillery  regi- 
ment, as  it  was  given  out  that  they  would  be  placed  on  duty  in 
defence  of  the  Capitol  and  would  not  have  to  go  into  the  field 
and  endure  the  hardships  of  the  common  soldier.  Under  those 
circumstances  most  every  profession  or  trade,  and  men  from  nine- 
teen to  sixty  years  of  age,  from  the  minister  who  sacrificed  the 
duty  he  was  required  to  perform  to  the  patriotic  crossroad 
farmer,  who  would  leave  his  farm  and  stock  in  charge  of  his  young 
sons,  and  then  the  gambler,  who  enlisted  in  order  that  he  could 
get  better  acquainted  with  the  boys  after  payday,  were  all  put 
together.  I  shall  never  forget  many  of  the  complaints  made  to 
me  as  Captain.  The  preacher  would  often  come  to  my  quarters 
to  let  me  know  that  men  were  playing  cards  for  money,  and  that 
it  would  be  much  better  for  them  to  be  reading  their  Bible  or 
praying.  The  steady  old  farmer  would  complain  of  the  preacher 
continually  annoying  them  with  his  prayers  and  advice  to  prepare 
for  death,  etc.  Smith  would  complain  that  Jones  was  putting  on 
too  much  style  for  a  soldier,  and  that  he  and  his  tentmate  did  not 
want  him  in  their  tent  or  dugout ;  that  Sergeant  Brown  or  Cor- 
poral Simmons  were  not  fit  to  be  over  good  men ;  that  they  be- 
longed to  a  low  class  with  whom  they  would  be  ashamed  to  min- 
gle at  home,  and  did  not  wish  to  serve  under  them. 

I  would  change  them  from  one  tent  to  another  until  I  had  them 
classed  off  in  very  good  shape.  I  still  remember  the  many  com- 
plaints brought  to  me  against  Van  Allen,  whose  father  was  a 
broker,  and  the  only  fault  they  could  find  was  that  he  put  on  too 
much  style  for  a  non-commissioned  officer.  It  was  not  long  be- 
fore I  had  peace  and  good  feeling  in  the  company,  but  I  had  to 
work  hard  to  accomplish  it,  as  my  Lieutenants  were  not  of  much 
service,  they  being  of  a  rather  complaining  and  fault-finding  dis- 

9 


1 3o 

position.     Much  better  material  existed  in  the  ranks  for  officers 
than  they. 

Two  months  had  not  passed  ere  I  had  my  company  in  such  a 
good  condition  that  the  steadiest  and  most  careful  inspectors, 
who  would  examine  not  only  the  general  appearance  of  the 
company,  but  would  carefully  inspect  each  gun,  the  equip- 
ments and  clothing,  quarters,  cook-tent,  company  books  and 
all  papers  and  .records,  but  he  would  require  me  to  drill 
and  maneuver  the  company  in  his  presence,  and  it  would  make 
me  feel  quite  proud  after  the  inspection  to  hear  him  say, 
"Captain,  I  am  well  pleased  with  the  appearance  of  your  com- 
pany and  its  management,  and  have  no  fault  to  find  or  sug- 
gestions to  make  more  than  to  say,  continue  as  you  have  started 
and  you  will  always  get  a  favorable  report  from  the  inspector." 
The  most  of  my  time  was  required  in  looking  after  the  men,  who 
had  a  hard  time  in  keeping  everything  clean  and  in  order,  as  many 
of  them  had  to  sleep  in  mud  and  dirt  most  of  the  time  during  the 
fall  and  winter  of  1864  and  1865  while  in  front  of  Petersburg,  as 
it  snowed  and  rained,  froze  and  thawed,  so  that  the  red  mud  was 
over  the  shoetops  in  many  places  in  camp,  which  the  men  were 
obliged  to  walk  through,  being  without  stoves  and  scarcely  any- 
thing in  the  shape  of  fuel  except  green  pine  wood  in  fireplaces 
with  our  mud  chimneys,  which  would  smoke  us  all  out  of  quarters 
at  times,  while  we  would  have  to  stand  in  the  cold  mud  until  the 
chimneys  were  fixed  or  the  quarters  made  more  comfortable.  Our 
guard  duties  were  about  the  same  from  one  day  to  another.  The 
men  were  in  camp  from  three  to  six  days  at  a  time,  and  would 
have  to  drill,  do  police  duty,  perform  general  guard  duty  and  be 
on  the  watch  day  and  night  to  keep  from  being  surprised  by  the 
rebels,  who  were  encamped  within  a  few  hundred  yards  of  us,  all 
the  time  watching  for  a  chance  to  gobble  us  up ;  and  as  some  of 
us  had  very  comfortable  little  houses  plastered  with  mud,  we  were 
not  going  to  let  them  be  taken  from  us  if  we  could  help  it.  In  ad- 
dition to  the  camp  duties  the  men  were  obliged  to  go  out  on  picket 
duty  from  twenty-four  to  forty-eight  hours.  On  that  duty  men 
were  not  supposed  to  lie  down,  take  off  their  clothes  or  go  to 
sleep,  but  many  had  deep  holes  dug  in  the  ground  where  they 
could  sit  and  talk  and  keep  warm  the  best  they  could  from  the 
little  fire  allowed  in  the  hole  in  the  ground  which  protected  them 
from  the  bullets  of  the  rebel  pickets  or  sharpshooters  when  careful 


not  to  expose  themselves ;  but  often  careless  men  were  shot, 
which,  however,  made  but  little  impression  upon  other  soldiers, 
as  it  was  such  a  common  event  to  see  a  wounded  or  dead  comrade. 
It  was  astonishing  how  contented  most  of  the  men  were,  some 
of  whom  had  lived  in  their  brownstone  fronts,  with  every  comfort 
in  life  that  money  could  afford :  but  we  made  up  our  minds  that 
we  were  soldiers  and  those  over  us  had  put  us  where  we  were,  and 
that  it  would  not  better  our  condition  to  find  fault  or  appear  the 
least  discontented;  so  we  obeyed  all  orders  and  kept  up  as  cheer- 
ful a  front  as  possible.  Although  a  mere  boy,  I  was  obliged  at 
times  to  assume  the  dignity  of  an  old  judge.  I  took  such  a  pride 
in  having  a  company  of  my  own  that  I  felt  as  if  I  would  like  to 
remain  in  the  Army  all  the  time.  On  January  i,  1865,  I  wrote  to 
my  old  Colonel,  who  had  gone  into  civil  life,  for  a  letter  of  recom- 
mendation for  the  regular  Army,  and  the  following  was  his  reply: 


132 

Upon  showing  the  above  letter  to  a  regular  Army  officer  friend, 
he  told  me  I  would  have  to  go  in  as  a  Second  Lieutenant,  as  no 
positions  were  given  in  the  line  to  a  higher  rank.  That  so  dis- 
couraged me  I  would  not  apply  for  it,  as  I  thought  it  would  be 
rather  a  come-down  to  accept  a  Second  Lieutenantcy  after  hav- 
ing been  a  full  Captain.  So  I  went  on  with  my  duties  as  Captain 
of  Company  E  and  as  Brigade  Officer  of  the  Day. 

As  I  was  in  command  of  the  regiment  one  day  on  account  of 
Major  Hogg's  being  sick  (drunk)  I  detailed  myself  for  duty  and 
reported  accordingly,  showing  my  own  orders  at  headquarters. 

Not  having  a  horse  of  my  own,  one  was  always  furnished  to  me 
from  brigade  headquarters  for  my  tours  of  service,  lasting  from 
twenty-four  to  forty-eight  hours. 

January  7,  1865. 

While  performing  the  duty  of  Brigade  Officer  of  the  Day  I 
often  met  field  officers  of  different  regiments  whom  I  had  not  seen 
since  I  was  on  the  staff  of  the  corps  commander.  Among  them 
was  the  Lieutenant-Colonel  of  the  One  hundred  and  twenty-fifth 
New  York,  who  suggested  that  I  come  into  his  regiment  as  a 
Major,  and  that  if  I  would  go  to  Elmira  and  get  three  companies, 
or  enough  more  to  make  three  companies,  he  would  see  that  I  got 
my  commission.  I  told  him  to  put  the  proposition  in  writing  and 
get  the  approval  of  the  brigade  commander  and  I  would  under- 
take the  job.  The  following  was  received  by  me  within  a  week 
afterward : 

Headquarters  T25th  N.  Y.  Volunteer  Infantry, 

January  7,  1865. 

I  do  hereby  agree,  if  Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  Second  New  York 
Artillery  will  procure  three  companies  for  my  regiment,  that  I  will 
make  him  Major  of  the  same,  that  vacancy  now  existing. 

(Signed)         JOSEPH  HYDE, 
Lieut. -Col.  Commanding  i25th  N.  Y.  V.  I., 

3d  Brigade,  ist  Division,  2d  A.  C. 
(Endorsement.) 
Headquarters  3d  Brigade,  ist  Division,  2d  A.  C., 

January  9,  1865. 

I  approve  of  the  within.  Captain  Armes  made  an  agreement 
with  me  last  summer  to  recruit  three  companies  for  this  regiment, 
but  was  ordered  to  the  field  before  he  had  time  to  undertake  it. 

I  respectfully  request  that  he  be  permitted  to  make  the  trial.    I 
have  confidence  in  his  ability  to  accomplish  what  he  attempts. 
(Signed)         C.  D.  MACDOUGALL, 

Col.  Commanding  Brigade. 


133 

The  Lieutenant-Colonel  of  the  Second  New  York  having  re- 
si'gned  about  that  time,  promoted  Major  Hogg  to  Lieutenant- 
Colonel,  leaving  a  vacancy  as  Major,  and  as  several  officers  of  my 
regiment  requested  me  not  to  send  in  my  application  to  go  into 
another  regiment,  I  did  not,  but  concluded  to  wait  my  chances 
for  promotion  in  my  own  regiment.  As  Captain  Humphreys 
ranked  me,  I  supposed  he  or  his  friends  would  secure  his  pro- 
motion, and  did  not  make  the  least  effort  to  secure  it  for  myself ; 
but  from  what  I  could  learn  at  the  time,  Captain  Humphreys  was 
indifferent  and  made  no  effort,  and  the  result  was  that  a  gentle- 
man by  the  name  of  Selkirk  came  to  the  regiment  with  a  com- 
mission as  Major  signed  by  the  Governor  of  New  York.  The 
officers  at  once  called  a  meeting  and  got  up  a  protest,  and  twenty 
officers  signed  it  to  be  forwarded  to  General  Miles,  hoping  to  pre- 
vent his  muster  in  and  the  appointment  of  Captain  Humphreys 
or  myself. 
*********** 

They  all  seemed  determined  that  the  new  Major  should  not 
come  into  the  regiment  if  they  could  prevent  it.  The  above  peti- 
tion was  brought  to  me  with  a  request  that  I  take  it  in  person  to 
General  Miles.  I  declined  to  take  any  part  in  the  matter,  and 
still  have  the  original  in  my  possession,  which  I  do  not  believe 
General  Miles  has  seen  to  this  day.  I  submitted  to  the  Major 
coming  into  the  regiment,  as  any  true  soldier  should  have  done. 

I  felt  as  bad  as  anyone,  as  I  was  very  ambitious  and  anxious  for 
promotion ;  but  I  took  the  ground  that  a  Governor  of  a  State  had 
the  right  to  commission  anyone  he  saw  fit,  and  it  was  not  the 
place  of  subordinates  to  question  his  action.  Very  few  regiments 
ir  the  field  had  officers  all  from  the  same  State.  It  was  not  a  time 
to  question  where  a  man  was  from  so  it  was  known  that  he  had 
united  with  the  defenders  of  the  Union. 

Having  been  without  my  trunk  and  with  nothing  but  a  change 
of  clothing  for  three  months,  I  sent  a  note  to  General  Williams, 
chief  of  General  Meade's  staff,  to  get  it  for  me  when  he  went  to 
Washington  if  it  would  not  be  too  much  trouble  ;  so  on  February  I 
I  received  the  following  telegram  : 


134 

Headquarters  Army  of  the  United  States, 

City  Point,  Va.,  February  I,  1865. 

Capt.  G.  A.  Armes, 

Second  N.  Y.  Artillery,  ist  Div.,  2d  Army  Corps: 
I  brought  from  Washington  for  you  a  trunk  and  sword.    Please 
send  for  them  tomorrow  (Tuesday),  as  I  may  leave  here  the  fol- 
lowing day.    My  quarters  are  with  General  Ingalls. 

(Signed)         SETH  WILLIAMS, 

Brig.-Gen. 

Such  kindness  on  his  part  rendered  to  those  he  could  help  made 
General  Williams  one  of  the  most  beloved  officers  in  the  Army. 
His  name  is  not  only  fastened  on  my  memory  as  a  soldier,  but 
as  a  generous  and  obliging  friend. 

Treasury  Department, 

Washington,  January  31,  1865. 
Dear  George : 

Your  trunk,  sword  and  key,  after  so  long  a  tribulation,  started 
this  P.  M.  for  Annapolis  to  go  to  the  front  in  care  of  Gen.  Seth 
Williams,  your  old  friend  you  knew,  who  remembered  you.  He 
says  he  will  immediately  telegraph  you  from  City  Point.  He  has 
the  key.  Herewith  find  letters  from  General  Hancock,  etc.,  inside. 

*         *         * 

Affectionately, 

YOUR  FATHER. 

A  letter  I  wrote  to  the  Surgeon- General  seemed  to  have  its 
effect,  for  soon  after  its  return  to  me  quite  a  number  of  men  were 
returned  to  duty  from  the  hospital  and  in  time  to  take  a  part  in 
the  little  maneuver  and  attack  we  made  before  the  grand  move. 

The  month  of  March  was  a  busy  one  for  both  Armies,  which 
for  a  few  weeks  before  appeared  as  if  they  were  asleep,  as  far 
as  any  active  service  was  concerned.  New  life  seemed  to  inspire 
the  men,  and  the  atmosphere  seemed  to  invigorate  and  produce 
a  sudden  change  in  every  man.  About  the  last  of  March  the 
whole  Army  was  in  motion,  sweeping  everything  before  it  as  we 
marched  along,  such  as  chickens,  pigs,  horses,  cows,  turkeys, 
sheep  and  even  the  contrabands,  who  would  amuse  the  boys  at  the 
camp  fires,  dancing  their  jigs. 

My  company  was  in  splendid  shape  and  had  been  specially  ex- 
cused from  fatigue  and  other  extra  duties  for  one  week  by  Major 


ilusler  only  a  short  time  before  on  account  of  its  good  discipline 
and  cleanly  condition,  etc. 

March  31,  1865. 

While  I  was  in  command  of  the  right  wing  of  the  regiment  one 
of  the  brigade  staff  rode  np  to  me  with  orders  to  prepare  to 
to  charge  on  the  works  in  our  front,  one  of  the  keys  to  Peters- 
burg. I  supposed  he  meant  at  once,  as  he  seemed  excited  and  in 
a  great  hurry,  so  I  gave  the  command  " Forward !"  Just  as  we 
were  about  going  into  the  works  we  were  called  back,  causing 
many  of  the  men  to  scatter  and  get  mixed.  I  did  not  want  to 
come  back,  but  made  up  my  mind  to  take  the  works.  Not  having 
a  flag  or  guidon,  I  spied  an  old  gray  shirt  on  the  ground  and  at 
once  held  it  up  on  the  point  of  my  sabre,  ordering  the  boys  to  rally 
around  and  follow  me  into  the  works. 

Some  few  misconstrued  my  object  and  did  not  support  me  as  I 
wished.  If  they  had  done  so  the  Second  New  York  would  have 
had  the  credit  of  being  the  first  regiment  that  took  the  works  in 
front  of  Petersburg,  as  there  were  but  few  "Johnnies"  behind 
them  at  that  time.  Instead  of  capturing  the  works  that  afternoon 
we  held  them  that  night,  I  receiving  the  following  order  after 
applying  for  500  more  men  : 

Headquarters  ist  Brigade,  ist  Division,  2d  Army  Corps, 

March  31,  1864. 
Capt.  G.  A.  Armes, 

Second  New  York  Artillery: 

Sir — I  send  you  twenty-five  men  in  addition.  The  Colonel 
commanding  Brigade  directs  that  you  make  a  good,  strong  picket 
line  and  throw  up  protection  in  your  front.  The  Third  Brigade 
will  be  relieved  tonight.  Keep  the  connection  with  the  Fifth 
Corps,  and  if  you  lose  connection  with  your  right,  report  the  fact 
to  these  headquarters.  By  order  of 

COL.  G.  W.  SCOTT. 

WM.    McCALLASTER, 

Capt.  and  A.  A.  A.  G. 

Colonel  Scott  highly  complimented  me  for  keeping  connection 
with  such  a  small  number  of  men  during  the  night. 

I  was  placed  in  a  very  responsible  position,  and  there  was  little 
sleep  for  us,  as  we  all  began  to  see  that  our  work  would  begin  in 
earnest  the  next  day,  it  being  one  of  the  weakest  points  upon  our 
whole  front. 


1 36 

April  i,   1865. 

Charges  were  made  by  other  troops  on  the  works,  and  on  the 
second  we  had  Petersburg  and  the  whole  rebel  Army  retreating 
and  our  Army  after  them.  The  pursuit  was  followed  up  night  and 
day  until  we  reached  Burksville,  then  on  to  Farmville,  where  we 
had  our  last  fight,  which  was  short  and  severe,  quite  a  number  of 
valuable  officers  and  men  being  killed  in  the  engagement,  among 
them  General  Smyth  and  Captain  Boyd,  two  warm  personal 
friends  of  mine.  Captain  Boyd  had  ben  wounded  seventeen  times 
and  only  lately  returned  to  the  field  hardly  recovered  from  the  last 
one  to  be  killed  in  the  last  engagement  of  the  Army  of  the 
Potomac  on  the  evening  of  April  8,  1865. 

The  next  day  terms  of  surrender  were  made. 

(General  Lee's  Acceptance  of  the  Terms.) 
Headquarters  Army  Northern  Virginia, 

April  9,  1865. 
Lieut-Gen.  U.  S.  Grant, 

Commanding  United  States  Armies: 

General — I  have  received  your  letter  of  this  date,  containing  the 
terms  of  the  surrender  of  the  Army  of  Northern  Virginia,  as  pro- 
posed by  you.  As  they  are  substantially  the  same  as  those  ex- 
pressed "in  your  letter  of  the  8th  inst.,  they  are  accepted.  I  will 
proceed  to  designate  the  proper  officer  to  carry  the  stipulation 
into  effect.  Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         R.  E.  LEE, 
General. 

After  that  great  event  the  most  of  our  Army  marched  back 
through  the  mud,  for  it  had  been  raining  and  the  roads,  as  well 
as  the  fields  were  almost  impassable,  to  Burksville  Station,  where 
we  encamped  for  a  few  weeks  before  starting  on  our  grand  and 
long  march  through  Richmond  on  our  way  to  Washington. 
There  Gen.  C.  C.  Auger  was  in  command  of  the  department. 

April  12,  1865. 

While  we  were  in  camp  at  Burksville  my  father  visited  me  for 
the  first  time  since  I  had  been  in  the  field,  coming  by  the  way  of 
Richmond,  which  had  been  captured  after  he  left  his  home,  and 
which  he  had  the  satisfaction  of  exploring  before  I  did  in  spite  of 
my  having  been  nearly  four  years  trying  to  get  there. 


137 

The  camp  accommodations  were  all  that  I  could  tender  my 
father,  and  he,  not  being  accustomed  to  the  ways  of  a  soldier  in 
making  the  best  of  his  situation,  did  not  remain  long ;  but  he  had 
the  satisfaction  of  seeing  a  great  deal  of  Army  life  and  what  men 
could  endure  when  obliged  to  during  an  active  campaign,  return- 
ing to  Washington  pleased  with  his  visit  to  me  and  qualified  with 
a  stock  of  knowledge  he  could  not  have  gained  in  any  other  way 
but  by  personal  experience. 

Soon  after  he  left  the  general  court-martials  were  organized  in 
the  different  commands  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  to  try  such 
offenders  as  the  commanding  officers  of  regiments  wished  to  vent 
their  spite  upon — in  some  cases,  at  least. 

I  was  one  of  the  victims  (Arrest  No.  8)  of  a  drunken  Lieutenant- 
Colonel  named  George  Hogg  (a  hog  by  nature  as  well),  who 
signed  a  set  of  fixed-up,  manufactured  and  false  charges  for  the 
purpose  of  forcing  me  out  of  the  service  if  possible.  The  pretext 
was  that  I  had  ordered  an  enlisted  man  to  do  my  cooking  and  not 
reporting  the  fact ;  also  that  I  requested  Colonel  Hogg  to  delay 
the  execution  of  an  order  from  the  War  Department  so  that 
Private  Charles  F.  Jones  could  draw  his  pay  and  bounty. 

"Third,  that  he  did  appropriate  sugar,  etc.,  to  his  own  private 
use  contrary  to  the  wishes  of  the  company." 

The  general  court-martial  consisted  of  Brev.-Col.  John  S.  Ham- 
mill,  Sixty-sixth  New  York  Volunteers ;  Lieut.-Col.  L.  W.  Husk, 
One  hundred  and  eleventh  New  York  Volunteers;  Lieut.-Col. 
James  Hyde,  One  hundred  and  twenty-fifth  New  York  Volun- 
teers; Maj.  S.  F.  Gould,  Fourth  New  York  Artillery;  Maj.  H.  G. 
Egburt  (lately  killed  while  gallantly  leading  his  regiment  against 
the  Filipinos),  One  hundred  and  eighty-  third  Pennsylvania  Vol- 
unteers ;  Capt.  -  -  Nelson,  Twenty-sixth  Michigan  Volun- 
teers ;  Capt.  A.  J.  Smith,  Fourth  New  York  Artillery ;  Capt.  A.  J. 
Hilliard,  Fifth  New  Hampshire  Volunteers ;  Capt.  — —  -  Lie- 
benon,  Sixty-first  New  York  Volunteers ;  Capt.  Thomas  Henry, 
One  hundred  and  fortieth  Pennsylvania  Volunteers,  Judge- 
Advocate. 

I  pleaded  not  guilty  to  the  charges  and  specifications,  and  feel- 
ing confident  the  court  could  not  find  me  guilty  on  such  a  set  of 
manufactured  stuff,  I  did  not  employ  any  counsel  to  defend  me. 
I  appeared  before  the  court  April  20,  1865.  Court- Martial  No.  i. 


tlpon  the  perjured  testimony  of  Lieuts.  A.  Cook,  Myrick  and 
one  Edmund  Jessup,  who  swore  that  I  had  an  enlisted  man  in  my 
quarters  for  a  week  or  two,  although  the  testimony  proved  the 
man  who  did  my  cooking  was  properly  accounted  for  on  my  re- 
ports, I  was  found  guilty  of  having  a  man  cook  for  me  on  Feb- 
ruary 27,  1865,  at  camp  near  Patrick's  Station,  Virginia. 

It  was  shown  that  only  half  a  pint  of  sugar  had  been  used  by 
me  from  the  company's  rations,  and  then  at  a  time  when  it  could 
not  be  procured  anywhere  else,  but  that  it  was  returned.  The 
evidence  proved  that  I  did  my  duty  in  the  Jones  case ;  that  noth- 
ing underhanded  had  been  done  by  me  in  any  transaction  ;  but  the 
court  went  through  the  form  of  sentencing  me  to  dismissal.  But 
ft  united  in  a  recommendation  of  the  sentence  being  remitted,  and 
I  was  restored  to  duty  with  my  company  by  orders  of  Gen. 
George  G.  Meade.  Although  Maj.  O.  F.  Hulser  of  my  regiment 
was  called  for  the  prosecution,  he  gave  good  evidence  in  my 
behalf. 

Question  by  the  Judge-Advocate:  Do  you  know  whether  Cap- 
tain Armes  had  an  enlisted  man  doing  his  cooking  at  any  time? 

Answer.     I  do  not. 

J.-A.  Do  you  know  whether  Captain  Armes  did  at  any  time 
solicit  Lieutenant-Colonel  Hogg  to  suspend  the  execution  of  an 
order  concerning  an  enlisted  man? 

Answer.     Not  of  my  own  personal  knowledge. 

By  the  Accused:  What  is  the  character  of  the  accused  as  an 
officer  and  gentleman? 

Answer.  It  is  good.  He  has  always,  as  far  as  I  have  observed, 
performed  his  duty.  While  in  action  at  Hatcher's  Run,  in  a  charge 
our  regiment  made,  Captain  Armes  was  in  front,  and  was  men- 
tioned afterwards  in  general  orders  from  Division  headquarters 
for  his  bravery.  The  discipline  of  his  company  is  equal  to  any  in 
the  regiment.  I  have  excused  his  company  for  a  week  from  picket 
on  account  of  its  cleanliness. 

Question  by  the  Court:  What  is  his  reputation  for  truth  and 
veracity? 

Answer.  I  believe  the  accused  to  be  a  man  of  truth  and 
veracity. 

The  above  is  a  true  copy  of  the  words  used  under  oath  by 
Major  Hulser  at  a  time  when  I  was  being  persecuted  by  my  Lieu- 
tenant-Colonel, which  should  be  sufficient  proof  that  I  did  my 
duty,  he  being  in  a  position  where  he  could  judge. 


Just  before  the  Army  started  for  Washington,  by  way  of  Rich- 
mond, my  brother  made  me  a  visit.  He  had  with  him  a  commis- 
sion as  Second  Lieutenant  in  the  Second  New  York  Heavy  Ar- 
tillery. On  reaching  Richmond  he  was  satisfied  that  there  was 
not  as  much  pleasure  and  honor  in  being  a  commissioned  officer 
as  he  had  anticipated,  and  bade  me  good-bye,  concluding  he 
would  prefer  going  back  to  Washington  on  the  boat  rather  than 
to  walk  with  the  regiment,  so  he  was  not  mustered  in.  Soon 
after  bidding  him  good-bye  at  the  Spottswood  Hotel  I  met  Dan 


GEN.   ROBERT    E.   LEE. 

Lee,  a  nephew  of  Gen.  Robert  E.  Lee  and  a  brother  of  Gen.  Fitz- 
hugh  Lee,  the  late  Governor  of  Virginia  (now  Brigadier-General 
and  on  duty  in  Havana).  Dan  and  I  were  playmates  before  the 
war,  and  I  had  not  seen  him  since  our  last  meeting  at  the  home 
of  his  aunt,  Mrs.  Fitzhugh  of  Ravensworth,  adjoining  my 
fathers's  property  at  Annandale,  Fairfax  county,  Virginia. 


140 

He  and  I  were  about  the  same  age  and  warm  friends  as  boys. 
He  went  in  the  Southern  Navy,  and  had  arrived  in  Richmond 
only  two  days  before  I  did.  He  appeared  as  glad  to  see  me  as  if 
there  had  been  no  war  or  differences  of  opinion  between  us,  and 
at  once  invited  me  to  the  house  of  his  uncle,  Gen.  R.  E.  Lee, 
where  I  remained  an  hour  or  two,  and  just  as  I  was  about  to  leave 
he  handed  me  a  large-sized  photograph  of  the  General  in  full  uni- 
form, to  which  the  General  affixed  his  autograph.  I  retain  it  to 
this  day,  and  shall  never  forget  the  sad  expression  of  his  face 
as  the  General  shook  hands  and  bade  me  good-bye,  I  little  dream- 
ing that  it  would  be  the  last  time  I  would  ever  see  him  alive  again. 
It  was  only  a  few  days  before  that  he  was  in  command  of  one  of 
the  bravest  and  most  devoted  Armies  that  was  ever  organized. 

My  regiment  camped  near  Yellow  Tavern  the  first  night  after 
passing  through  Richmond,  and  having  a  good  opportunity  to 
keep  from  marching  on  foot,  I  secured  a  very  good  horse  in  ex- 
change for  a  watch,  which  I  thought  would  not  be  as  useful  to  me 
at  that  time  as  a  horse,  and  I  rode  the  greater  part  of  the  way 
from  Richmond  to  Washington.  After  our  arrival  there  we  went 
into  camp  at  Arlington  Heights,  Va. 

Being  very  anxious  to  visit  my  family,  who  were  in  the  city  only 
three  or  four  miles  from  camp,  I  obtained  a  pass  for  that  purpose 
and  met  my  family  and  many  friends,  who  were  as  glad  to  see  me 
and  as  much  surprised  as  if  I  had  returned  from  among  the  dead, 
many  having  given  up  all  hope  of  seeing  me  again,  as  I  was 
thought  by  some  to  be  a  very  reckless,  daredevil  sort  of  a  boy. 
The  29th  of  May  came  so  quickly  after  reaching  my  home  that  I 
did  not  care  to  return  to  camp  if  an  extension  of  leave  could  be  se- 
cured, which  I  applied  for  and  received. 

After  reporting  back  to  my  regiment  it  was  soon  decided  that 
the  Second  New  York  Artillery  should  not  be  mustered  out,  but 
retained  for  a  while  longer  and  be  placed  in  charge  of  the  forts 
and  public  property  around  Arlington  Heights.  My  company 
was  among  the  six  ordered  to  garrison  Fort  Whipple.  After  we 
had  been  settled  there  a  few  days  General  Meade's  farewell  order 
was  published : 


Headquarters  Army  of  the  Potomac, 

June  28,  1865. 
Soldiers : 

This  day  two  years  ago  I  assumed  command  of  you  under  the 
orders  of  the  President  of  the  United  States;  today,  by  virtue  of  the 
same  authority,  this  army  ceases  to  exist.  I  have  to  announce 
my  transfer  to  other  duties  and  my  separation  from  you.  It  is 
unnecessary  to  enumerate  here  all  that  has  occurred  in  these  two 
eventful  years,  from  the  grand  and  decisive  battle  of  Gettysburg, 
the  turning  point  of  the  war,  to  the  surrender  of  the  Army  of 
Northern  Virginia  at  Appomattox  Court  House.  Suffice  it  to  say 
that  history  will  do  you  justice.  A  grateful  country  will  honor  the 
living,  cherish  and  support  the  disabled,  and  sincerely  mourn  the 
dead. 

In  parting  from  you,  your  Commanding  General  will  ever  bear 
in  memory  your  noble  devotion  to  your  country — your  patience 
and  cheerfulness  under  all  the  privations  and  sacrifices  you  have 
been  called  on  to  endure. 

Soldiers,  having  accomplished  the  work  set  before  us,  having 
vindicated  the  honor  and  integrity  of  our  Government  and  flag, 
let  us  return  thanks  to  Almighty  God  for  His  blessings  in  granting 
us  victory  and  peace,  and  let  us  earnestly  pray  for  strength  and 
light  to  discharge  our  duties  as  citizens,  as  we  have  endeavored  to 
discharge  them  as  soldiers. 

(Signed)         GEO.  G.  MEADE, 

Major-General,  U.  S.  A. 

That  order  was  the  last  that  was  issued,  and  when  it  was  read 
to  the  grand  old  Army  of  the  Potomac,  which  was  ordered  to  fall 
in  line  under  arms  at  their  camps,  posts  and  stations,  the  tears 
could  be  seen  upon  many  an  old  veteran's  cheeks,  whose  thoughts, 
no  doubt,  were  wandering  over  what  that  Army  had  passed 
through  during  the  time  he  helped  make  it  what  it  was.  To  feel 
that  their  old  commander  was  issuing  his  last  order  was  enough 
to  make  most  any  soldier  of  that  Army  feel  sad. 

As  the  fact  as  to  how  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  got  its  name 
has  never  been  made  public,  I  will  relate  the  circumstances  as  told 
by  ex-Gov.  George  Stoneman  of  California,  who  was  my  guest 
during  his  last  visit  to  this  city.  He  accompanied  me  to  spend  an 
evening  with  his  old  friend,  Gen.  R.  C.  Drum,  the  Adjutant- 
General  of  the  Army.  During  the  conversation  about  how  he 
first  happened  to  be  on  duty  here,  he  said  that  after  Gen.  George 
B.  McClellan  had  been  placed  in  command  of  the  Army  he  was 
made  chief  of  staff,  and  one  day  when  General  Scott  had  a  meet- 


I42 

ing  of  his  officers  to  advise  and  consult  about  the  general  condi- 
tion of  affairs  he  called  upon  the  officers  present  to  suggest  a 
name.  One  suggested  Army  of  Virginia;  another,  Army  of 
Washington ;  another,  Army  of  the  Union,  etc.,  when  General 
Stoneman  said  "Army  of  the  Potomac."  General  Scott  at  once 
slapped  his  hand  down  on  the  table,  saying,  "That's  it,  that's  it. 
Let  the  Army  hereafter  be  known  as  the  'Army  of  the  Potomac.' ': 

There  being  seventy-five  or  one  hundred  prisoners  at  Fort  Whip- 
pie  at  this  time,  of  course  it  had  a  tendency  to  increase  the  duties 
and  a  great  deal  of  work  necessary  to  be  done,  many  of  the  pris- 
oners were  put  to  work  hauling  sod,  fixing  up  the  ramparts,  and, 
in  fact,  giving  the  whole  place  a  general  cleaning  up ;  and  within 
fifteen  days  it  had  changed  from  a  dirty,  dismal  and  neglected- 
looking  one  to  a  clean,  bright  and  cheerful  resort  for  the  many 
visitors  daily  and  hourly  stopping  to  look  through  the  fort  and 
garrison.  People  from  most  all  parts  of  the  world  when  in  Wash- 
ington would  stop  over  to  see  Fort  Whipple  and  Arlington 
Heights,  situated  only  a  short  distance  from  the  fort.  The  place 
that  R.  E.  Lee  and  his  wife  owned  before  the  war  had  a  great  at- 
traction for  many. 

Having  good  quarters  and  a  place  to  receive  and  entertain,  I 
endeavored  to  make  visitors  interested  by  allowing  them  as  many 
privileges  as  possible.  The  enlisted  men,  as  well  as  the  officers  of 
the  garrison,  seemed  pleased  to  have  the  opportunity  of  mingling 
with  and  talking  to  those  who  had  never  seen  a  fort  or  talked 
with  a  soldier  before. 

The  following  are  in  relation  to  the  dismantling  of  the  forts 
around  Washington  and  disposition  of  the  ordnance  stores,  a 
great  deal  of  which  was  turned  over  to  me  at  Fort  Whipple,  it 
having  been  decided  that  the  other  forts  should  be  discontinued. 
Fort  W'hipple  is  retained  to  this  day,  but  is  now  known  as  Fort 
Myer,  named  after  Coloned  Myer,  formerly  Chief  Signal  Officer, 
U.  S.  A. : 

Headquarters  ist  Brigade,  De  Russey's  Division,  2d  A.  C., 

June  26,  1865. 

Having  been  assigned  to  the  duty  of  placing  the  proper  arma- 
ments in  the  forts  to  be  retained  in  the  Department  of  Washington, 
south  of  the  Potomac,  from  those  to  be  dismantled,  and  turning 
over  all  surplus  ordnance  and  ordnance  stores  as  are  not  needed 
to  the  Ordnance  Department,  in  compliance  with  orders  from 


143 

headquarters,  De  Russey's  Division,  I  herewith  furnish  you  with 
a  memorandum  of  changes  to  be  made  at  your  post,  which  must 
be  strictly  observed. 

The  ammunition,  implements,  equipments,  etc.,  which  are  to  go 
to  other  forts  must  be  packed  separately  for  the  forts  for  which 
they  are  to  go,  and  every  box  or  barrel  plainly  labeled. 

These  labels  will  give  a  memorandum  of  each  article  contained 
in  the  package,  from  what  fort  the  package  is  from,  and  to  what 
fort  the  package  is  to  be  sent,  etc.,  giving  minute  directions  for 
the  entire  dismantling. 

GEO.  A.  ARMES, 
Capt.  2d  New  York  Artillery,  Com.  Ft.  Whipple. 

As  we  had  no  band  at  our  post,  General  Whistler  would  oc- 
casionally loan  his  regimental  band,  which  would  give  a  great 
deal  of  pleasure,  and  the  music  would  cheer  many  a  discontented 
soldier,  whose  only  thoughts  seemed  to  dwell  on  the  fact  that  the 
war  was  over  and  he  ought  to  be  allowed  to  go  home.  There- 
fore I  had  to  be  on  my  guard  to  devise  means  and  ways  to  divert 
the  thoughts  of  many  upon  other  things,  and  no  doubt  such  as  did 
not  understand  my  motives  thought  I  was  most  too  strict  and  ex- 
acting for  a  commanding  officer  of  volunteers.  But  Companies 
E,  G,  L  and  M  made  a  fine  showing  on  the  dress  parades,  drills 
and  other  duties,  which  were  daily  watched  and  admired  by  the 
many  visitors.  I  do  not  believe  there  were  four  companies  in  any 
regular  regiment  in  our  Army  that  could  have  done  more  effec- 
tive work  in  action,  make  a  better  appearance  on  parade  or  be 
more  active  and  precise  in  drilling  and  maneuvering  than  the 
above  during  the  month  of  July,  1865. 

During  the  short  time  I  remained  at  Fort  Whipple  the  great 
Army  which  covered  hundreds  of  acres  of  land  immediately 
around  the  city  of  Washington  disappeared.  Regiment  after  regi- 
ment marched  to  the  depot  and  were  loaded  upon  the  trains  as 
fast  as  cars  could  be  procured,  until  nothing  but  the  guard  of  a  few 
volunteer  soldiers  were  left  to  protect  the  Government  property 
until  the  few  regular  troops  could  be  distributed  to  take  their 
places. 

During  the  month  of  July,  1865,  when  the  trial  of  Mrs.  Surratt, 
Payne  and  other  conspirators  connected  with  the  assassination  of 
Mr.  Lincoln  was  in  progress  at  the  Washington  Arsenal,  an  order 
came  to  me  at  Fort  Whipple  from  the  War  Department  to  turn 
my  command  over  to  the  next  ranking  officer  and  report  to  the 


144 

Adjutant-General  of  the  Army  at  once.  I  was  alarmed  at  first,  fear- 
ing that  Mr.  Stanton  was  going  to  cut  my  time  short  in  the  Army 
upon  the  report  of  some  enemy  who  I  imagined  had  manufactured 
something  that  gave  Mr.  Stanton  an  excuse  to  bring  me  before 
him.  Within  one  hour  from  the  time  I  received  the  order  I  was 
in  the  presence  of  General  Townsend,  who  at  once  said  he  had  sent 
for  me  to  obtain  some  reliable  information  for  the  Secretary  of 
War,  and  asked  me  if  I  knew  Dan  Lee,  a  nephew  of  Gen.  R.  E. 
Lee.  I  told  him  I  did,  and  had  seen  him  within  the  past  few  days. 
As  soon  as  he  was  assured  that  what  I  said  was  true  he  took  me 
into  Mr.  Stanton's  presence,  who  told  me  to  describe  Dan  Lee 
and  state  ho\v  many  times  I  had  seen  him  since  General  Lee's 
surrender.  After  appearing  satisfied  with  my  statement  he  told 
General  Townsend  to  go  with  me  to  the  Arsenal  and  show  me  all 
the  conspirators  who  were  being  tried  and  see  if  Mr.  Lee  was 
among  them. 

After  our  arrival  there  General  Townsend  saw  General  Hunter, 
the  president  of  the  court-martial,  who  took  a  recess  of  the  court, 
and  all  the  prisoners  were  brought  into  the  room  and  seated  upon 
a  bench.  General  Townsend  then  requested  me  to  point  out  Dan 
Lee  from  among  them.  After  a  close  inspection  I  informed  the 
General  that  he  was  not  among  the  number.  He  told  me  I  must 
certainly  be  mistaken ;  to  look  again,  and  be  more  careful,  and  see 
if  there  was  anyone  there  who  resembled  him. 

I  pointed  to  one  of  the  prisoners  who  sat  in  the  center  on  the 
bench,  remarking  that  he  resembled  Mr.  Lee  more  than  any  of 
the  rest,  but  that  he  did  not  belong  to  the  Lee  family. 

General  Townsend  and  I  then  returned  to  the  War  Department 
and  reported  to  Secretary  Stanton,  who  seemed  to  doubt  my  re- 
port at  first,  until  I  offered  to  go  with  anyone  he  would  send  to 
the  residence  of  Mrs.  Fitzhugh,  his  aunt,  at  Annandale,  Fairfax 
county,  Virginia,  with  whom  Mr.  Lee  had  been  residing  since  the 
surrender.  After  explaining  to  Mr.  Stanton  that  my  father  owned 
the  adjoining  property,  and  that  Dan  Mason  Lee  and  I  were  boys 
together,  he  said  he  was  satisfied  that  I  was  right.  Colonel  Baker, 
the  detective,  who  was  present  at  this  time,  flew  into  a  rage,  and 
stated  that  the  prisoner  Payne,  whom  I  had  pointed  out  as  the 
one  most  nearly  resembling  Dan  Lee  of  any  of  the  prisoners,  was 
not  true ;  that  he  was  in  disguise,  and  that  his  name  was  not 
Payne,  but  that  he  was  a  nephew  of  General  Lee,  who  was  impli- 


145 

cated  in  the  assassination  of  Mr.  Lincoln,  and  had  sent  his 
nephew  Dan  to  assist  in  the  assassination  of  Mr.  Lincoln  and  the 
Cabinet.  Mr.  Stanton  at  once  ordered  Colonel  Baker  to  leave  the 
room,  as  he  saw  he  was  trying  to  get  up  a  scheme  to  have  Gen, 
R.  E.  Lee  and  family  arrested  in  conection  with  the  conspirators. 

The  villainous  scheme  of  Baker  was  thwarted  by  my  being  able 
to  convince  Mr.  Stanton  that  Payne,  the  conspirator,  was  not  Dan 
Lee,  which,  in  my  opinion,  prevented  the  arrest  of  Gen.  R.  E.  Lee 
and  others  of  his  family.  The  failure  to  accomplish  this  vile  pur- 
pose in  getting  Mr.  Stanton  to  aid  in  trying  to  connect  General 
Lee  with  such  a  crime  ended  his  power  and  influence  with  the 
Secretary  of  War  and  other  authorities,  and  soon  after  the  news 
of  Baker's  suicide  was  made  public. 

I  have  not  to  this  day  seen  anyone  who  has  expressed  the  least 
sympathy  for  him.  I  do  not  believe  there  was  a  man  in  the  United 
States  who  had  more  power  at  one  time  than  Baker  so  far  as 
concerned  arresting  innocent  people,  thrusting  them  in  prison, 
confiscating  their  property  and  burning  houses  and  barns  in  the 
night,  sending  helpless  women  and  children  out  in  the  snow  and 
obliging  them  in  some  cases  to  go  miles  before  they  could  find 
shelter. 

After  I  had  satisfied  Mr.  Stanton  as  to  the  facts  I  returned  to 
my  post. 

After  promptly  complying  with  all  previous  orders  I  was 
handed  another  ordering  me  to  report  to  the  War  Department 
Bureau  of  Refugees,  Freedmen  and  Abandoned  Lands. 

Just  as  I  had  moved  in  my  new  quarters  and  assumed  charge 
c.t  Alexandria,  Va.,  Colonel  Marsh  arrived  and  took  command, 
giving  me  following  orders  assigning  me  to  duty  as  superin- 
tendent for  t^ie  counties  of  Fairfax  and  Alexandria,  with  head- 
quarters at  Fairfax  Court  House,  which  took  me  within  six  miles 
of  my  farm  and  old  home  in  Fairfax  county,  Virginia,  which  I 
had  left  at  the  breaking  out  of  the  war  over  four  years  before,  the 
improvements  on  which  had  all  been  destroyed,  leaving  nothing 
but  the  walls  of  the  Castle  and  foundation  of  buildings  and  stumps 
of  the  orchard,  which  had  also  been  destroyed. 

I  complied  with  the  order  at  once,  taking  a  good  supply  of 
passes  signed  in  blank,  so  that  I  could  insert  my  name  or  the 
name  of  any  one  of  my  command  to  whom  I  wished  to  grant  a 
pass. 

10 


I46 

Upon  reaching  Fairfax  Court  House  I  took  possession,  accord- 
ing" to  orders,  of  the  residence  and  property  of  the  Hon.  Henry 
W.  Thomas,  who  with  his  family  had  been  in  Richmond  during 
the  war,  but  just  as  I  was  about  moving  in  Mrs.  Thomas  and  her 
children  appeared,  having  just  returned  from  Richmond,  and 
pleaded  with  me  to  let  them  go  in  their  own  house,  which  I  did, 
after  another  one  just  as  good  for  my  purpose  had  been  secured. 


• 


EX-COV.    THOMAS     OF   VA. 

As  I  was  free  to  go  where  I  pleased,  I  had  but  little  to  do,  and 
with  officers,  horses  and  teams  at  my  command  and  disposal,  hav- 
ing plenty  of  room  in  my  house  to  entertain  and  receive  visitors, 
1  made  it  a  point  to  have  quite  a  number  of  them  all  the  time, 
my  principal  duties  being  to  investigate  the  complaints  of  the 
darkies  and  their  masters,  the  refugees  and  Union  people  who 
had  returned  to  their  homes  or  to  the  land  where  their  homes 
had  been  before  the  war. 

Col.  James  Jackson  having  named  the  tournament  he  had 
given  at  the  time  the  State  seceded  (described  in  Chapter  I)  the 
"Grand  Secession  Tournament/'  and  as  I  had  been  the  successful 


I 

147 

knight  at  the  same,  I  felt  that  as  the  war  was  over  i;  would  tend 
to  restore  family  relations  between  estranged  neighbors  to  give 
one  to  be  known  as  "The  Grand  Union  Tournament"  as  an  offset 
to  the  one  given  by  Jackson. 

I  announced  the  5th  of  September,  1865,  as  the  day  fixed  for 
the  "Grand  Union  Tournament"  to  be  held  at  Fairfax  Court 
House,  sending  out  handbills  all  over  the  country,  inviting  those 
who  were  disposed  to  take  an  interest  in  it  to  report  to  me,  and 
explaining  that  no  distinction  would  be  shown  to  one  party  more 
than  to  the  other.  When  it  took  place  forty-eight  knights,  be- 
sides the  marshals,  aids,  heralds  and  assistants  took  a  part,  many 
having  been  with  Mosby  and  in  the  different  branches  of  the 
service  in  the  Confederate  Army.  Most  all  the  Union  or  Army 
officers  of  my  district  took  an  active  part,  riding  as  knights  and 
meeting  the  Southern  boys  on  as  friendly  terms  as  if  there  had 
been  no  differences  of  opinion  between  them. 

Seats  were  fixed  up  and  awnings  erected  from  the  branches  of 
trees  which  I  had  directed  to  be  hauled  from  the  woods,  and  every 
possible  convenience  for  the  comfort  of  the  many  gathered  there 
was  arranged. 

Many  people  from  Washington  and  Alexandria  came  in  on 
extra  trains  and  in  stages,  hacks  and  buggies.  Others  came  in 
ox-carts  and  on  foot  for  miles  to  witness  the  grand  affair. 

Speeches  were  made  by  General  Massey,  postmaster  at  Alex- 
andria, and  others,  and  it  turned  out  to  be  a  grand  success. 

But  the  most  singular  part  of  it  was  that  I  should  ride  as  one 
of  the  knights  under  the  title  of  "Hope  Castle,"  the  name  of  my 
old  home,  which  had  been  destroyed  during  the  war,  and  then  to 
be  pronounced  by  the  judge  as  the  successful  knight,  entitled  to 
crown  the  Queen  of  Love  and  Beauty,  having  been  awarded  that 
honor  by  the  judges  at  Colonel  Jackson's  Tournament  over  four 
years  before. 

This  created  quite  a  sensation  and  remark  by  many  persons 
who  had  witnessed  both  affairs.  As  I  had  outgrown  my 
bashfulnes  to  some  extent,  I  crowned  the  eldest  daughter  of  Gen- 
eral Massey  at  the  ball  given  in  the  evening,  which  was  kept  up 
until  sunrise  the  next  morning. 

Tt  was  interesting  to  see  the  grounds  around  where  the  tour- 
nament took  place  filled  with  all  kinds  of  vehicles.  Many  of  the 
ladies  who  had  attended  the  tournament  given  by  Mr.  Jackson 


i48 

only  a  few  years  before,  coming  in  their  carriages  elegantly 
dressed  and  with  their  turnouts,  came  now  in  an  ox-cart  with  a 
little  brother  or  aged  father  driving,  and  all  dressed  in  homespun. 

But  they  were  received  by  me  in  as  friendly  a  spirit  as  if  no 
misfortunes  had  overtaken  them,  and  I  made  them  feel  as  com- 
fortable as  was  possible. 

In  the  afternoon  after  the  tournament  was  over  horseracing 
was  indulged  in,  and  all  seemed  pleased  with  their  visit  to  Fairfax 
Court  House. 

Following  is  a  copy  of  a  large  bill  which  I  had  directed  to  be 
posted  on  trees  and  in  postoffices  throughout  the  several  counties  : 

GRAND  UNION  TOURNAMENT  AT  FAIRFAX  COURT  HOUSE. 

A  Tournament  will  be  held  at  Fairfax  Court  House  on  Tuesday, 
September  5,  1865.  The  Coronation  Ball  will  be  given  at  the 
Union  Hall  in  the  evening.  Addresses  will  be  given  by  Brig-Gen. 
W.  D.  Massey,  Postmaster  of  Alexandria,  and  Thomas  J.  Murray 
of  Fairfax.  Knights  will  report  to  Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes  at  Fairfax 
Court  House. 

Committee  on  Arrangements — Amos  Fox,  A.  Hoag,  D.  Mason 
Lee,  W.  Broughton,  Rollins  Fowle  and  Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes. 

Committee  for  Receiving  Knights — Dr.  Robert  F.  Simpson, 
Gilbert  S.  Miner,  J.  B.  Bowman,  G.  W.  Lee  and  C.  W.  Turley. 

Marshals — Col.  James  T.  Close,  William  H.  Delaney,  Amos 
Fox,  Col.  Daniel  F.  Delaney  and  Albert  Coxen. 

Fleralds— B.  McNeil,  Dallas  Powell,  A.  Alexander,  Col.  D. 
Windsor. 

Committee  on  Invitation — W.  Powell,  R.  H.  Cockrell,  O.  W. 
Hunt. 

Judges— W.  Powell,  R.  H.  Cockrell  arid  Dr.  V.  P.  Gunnell. 

A  fine  band  of  music  will  be  in  attendance. 

In  order  to  have  the  ball  a  select  affair  the  folowing  invitation 
was  sent  and  each  person  invited  by  name : 

Complimentary. 

M-  : 

The  pleasure  of  your  company  is  requested  at  a  Grand  Tourna- 
ment and  Ball  to  be  given  at  Fairfax  Court  House  September  5, 
1865,  by,  Yours,  very  sincerely, 

CAPT.  GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

For  the  Committee. 


-      149 

The  ballroom  was  crowded  at  the  appointed  time,  and  when  I 
placed  the  elegant  crown  on  the  "Queen  of  Love  and  Beauty" 
there  was  grand  applause  and  the  music  and  dancing  commenced, 
the  Queen  and  maids  of  honor  forming  two  sets  to  themselves, 
one  Queen  and  seven  maids  of  honor. 

The  Alexandria  Gazette  gave  a  report  as  follows : 

*  *  *  The  following  names  are  among  the  list  of  knights  who 
fearlessly  and  nobly  contested  for  the  honors  of  crowning  the 
queen,  and  although  all  but  one  was  doomed  to  be  vanquished,  yet 
they  all  evinced  great  skill  in  horsemanship  and  dexterity  with 
the  lance:  Carlton  Lewis,  Knight  of  Mount  Royal;  William  E. 
Armes,  Knight  of  Raven  Plume;  Edward  Javins,  Knight  of  the 
Turf;  John  Heath,  Knight  of  Annandale;  Chas.  Taylor,  Knight  of 
Burk's  Station;  Wisewell  Terrett,  Knight  of  Defiance;  Geo.  A. 
Armes,  Knight  of  Hope  Castle;  Will  Trammell,  Knight  of  Arling- 
ton; George  French,  Knight  of  Potomac;  C.  H.  Armes,  Knight  of 
Olive  Branch;  T.  J.  Murray,  Knight  of  Virginia;  S.  M.  Baker, 
Knight  of  Cumberland;  H.  Bailey,  Knight  of  Bailey's  Cross 
Roads. 

At  the  conclusion  of  the  tilting  it  was  decided  that  the  "Knight 
of  Hope  Castle,"  Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  had  borne  off  the  ring  the 
greatest  number  of  times,  and  was,  therefore,  entitled  to  select  a 
fair  lady  for  his  queen.  He  choose  Miss  Carrie  Massey  of  Alex- 
andria. To  William  E.  Armes  was  given  the  privilege  of  choosing 
the  first  maid  of  honor,  and  he  selected  Miss  Lizzie  Smoot  of 
Washington.  Lieutenant  French,  the  next  on  the  list,  chose  as 
second  maid  of  honor  Miss  Libbie  Bowman  of  Vienna,  and  Capt. 
S.  M.  Baker  chose  Miss  Annie  E.  Close  of  Alexandria  as  third 
maid  of  honor.  A  speech  was  then  delivered  to  the  knights  by 
Ihomas  J.  Murray  of  Fairfax,  which  was  pronounced  very  fine, 
and  was  followed  by  one  from  Gen.  W.  D.  Massey  to  the  queen 
and  her  maids  of  honor. 

Afterward  a  trial  of  speed  between  the  horses  of  the  respective 
knights  was  indulged  in,  which  resulted  in  the  victory  of  the  fine 
mare  owned  and  ridden  by  Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes. 

A  grand  ball  at  the  Union  Hotel  in  the  evening  closed  the  fes- 
tivities, which  were  pronounced  by  all  to  have  been  of  the  most 
pleasing  and  unexceptionable  character. 

A  few  days  after  the  tournament  was  over  an  old  Irish  woman 
by  the  name  of  Kearney,  who  claimed  she  had  been  a  laundress 
for  General  Auger  before  the  war,  fixed  up  a  store  in  a  little  shanty 
in  the  village  and  sold  whiskey  to  the  soldiers  to  such  an  extent 
that  several  whiskey  rows  took  place  between  citizens  and  sol- 


150 

diers.  In  one  of  these  disturbances  the  discharge  of  a  six-shooter 
at  a  soldier  from  the  hand  of  one  of  the  lawless  citizens  caused 
me  to  take  it  a~way  from  him,  as  there  was  no  civil  law  that  could 
be  fully  enforced.  Instead  of  coming  to  me  after  he  got  sober, 
he  complained  to  General  Auger  at  Washington  that  I  had  taken 
his  pistol.  The  General  at  once  sent  the  following  letter  to  Gen- 
eral Howard : 

Headquarters  Department  of  Washington, 

Twenty-second  Army  Corps, 
Washington,  D.  C,  September  12,  1865. 
Dear  General : 

The  bearer,  Mr.  Fletcher,  complains  that  a  pistol  has  been  taken 
from  him  by  Captain  Armes  at  Fairfax  Court  House,  on  the 
grounds  that  citizens  are  not  permitted  to  have  arms. 

I  am  not  aware  of  any  such  order,  and  fancy  that  Captain  Armes 
is  acting  without  orders  from  you.  Will  you  be  good  enough  to 
have  him  instructed  not  to  interfere  with  citizens,  except  so  far  as 
duties  in  your  Bureau  require  it? 

I  am,  truly  yours, 

(Signed)         C.  C.  AUGER, 

Major-General. 
GENERAL  O.  O.  HOWARD. 

The  following  endorsement  was  placed  on  the  above  letter  and 
referred  to  me : 

Bureau  of  Refugees  and  Freedmen,  etc.,  Washington,  D.  C. 
Captain  Armes, 

Asst.  Supt.,  etc.:          v 

You  will  immediately  return  this  man  his  pistol,  and  as  you  have 
no  authority  to  act  as  provost  marshal,  or  in  any  capacity  outside 
of  your  legitimate  duties  as  Superintendent  of  the  Bureau,  you  will 
make  no  more  seizures,  a-nd  restore  any  property  of  whatever  de- 
scription you  may  have  taken  in  violation  of  such  authority. 

By  order  of 

MAJ.-GEN.  O.  O.  HOWARD, 
SAMUEL  G.  TAGGARD, 

A.  A.  G. 

Almost  every  citizen  in  my  district  had  either  a  gun  or  a  pistol, 
and  no  one  else  but  the  complainant  had  been  interfered  with  dur- 
ing the  whole  time,  I  was  in  command,  and  under  the  circum- 
stances could  not  do  otherwise  than  I  did.  If  I  had  allowed  him 


to  shoot  one  or  two  soldiers  and  not  interfered  I  would  have  been 
blamed  more  than  I  was. 

Airs.  Kearney  continued  to  sell  whiskey  to*  the  soldiers  in  spite 
of  my  warning-  and  that  of  the  civil  authorities,  who  seemed  to 
have  no  power  to  enforce  any  of  the  laws  at  that  time. 

Subsequent] v  facts  came  to  me  that  soldiers  of  my  command 
had  committed  depredations  in  the  village,  broken  windows,  etc., 
in  a  drunken  row.  I  thereupon  sent  to  Mrs.  Kearney's  establish- 
ment and  took  all  the  whiskey  that  could  be  found,  when  she  at 
once  came  to  my  headquarters  and  demanded  the  return  of  it  on 
the  ground  that  she  had  been  a  laundress  of  General  Auger,  say- 
ing that  he  would  let  her  sell  as  much  as  she  wished,  and  if  I  did 
not  give  it  up  she  would  report  me  to  him.  I  informed  her  that 
I  had  reported  my  action  to  headquarters  and  would  have  to  await 
orders  in  the  matter. 

A  few  days  after  I  received  an  order  to  return  the  seized 
whiskey. 

Headquarters  Department  of  Washington, 

Twenty-second  Army  Corps, 
Washington,  D.  C,  September  14,  1865. 
General  Howard, 

Commander,  etc. : 

Will  you  be  good  enough  to  have  Captain  Armes  directed  to 
return  to  Mrs.  Kearney,  the  bearer  hereof,  'the  property  he  has 
taken  from  her?  She  will  tell  you  the  circumstances  of  their  being 
taken.  Mr.  Ferry  has  investigated  the  matter,  and  thinks  the 
property  should  be  returned. 

I  am,  truly  yours, 

(Signed)         C.  C.  AUGER, 

Major-General. 

G.  I).  79,  1865;  endorsed  and  referred  to  me. 
Respectfully  referred  to  Captain  Armes,  who  will  turn  over  to 
Mrs.  Kearney  all  property  seized  from  her.  Captain  Armes  will 
be  particular,  in  restoring  this  property,  to  return  the  exact  amount 
and  articles  seized.  This  paper  will  be  returned,  with  report  of 
action  endorsed.  By  order  of 

MAJOR-GENERAL  HOWARD. 
MAX  WOODHULL, 

Col.  and  A.  A.  G. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  September  18,  1865. 
Bureau  R.  F.  and  A.  Lands. 

Of  course  I  promptly  complied  with  the  order,  and  I  enclosed  a 
copy  of  a  letter  from  one  of  the  judges  to  General  Howard  sus- 


152 

taining  me  in  what  I  had  done  and  asking  if  Mrs.  Kearney  could 
not  be  prevented  in  some  way  from  selling  whiskey  to  soldiers, 
which  explained  the  fact  that  I  had  not  interfered  with  any  of  the 
rights  of  the  citizens,  and  seemed  to  be  satisfactory  to  General 
Howard,  as  I  did  not  hear  anything  more  from  it. 

Fairfax  Court  House,  Va.,  September  6,  1865. 
Captain  Armes: 

Dear  Sir — Yours,  in  relation  to  Mrs.  Kearney's  liquors,  is  re- 
ceived. I  have  not  the  least  objection  to  your  taking  the  course 
you  propose.  When  they  got  their  license  from  the  court  it  was 
fully  explained  to  them  that  they  must  be  subject  to  all  military 
orders  relating  to  the  sale  of  liquors. 

I  think  that  prompt  measures  ought  to  be  taken,  as  I  am  satis- 
fied that  she  daily  violates  military  orders  in  regard  to  selling 
drinks  to  soldiers,  and  has  forfeited  her  license  in  other  respects. 

Yours  truly, 

JOB  HAXHURST. 

As  1  expected  to  be  mustered  out  of  the  service  soon,  and  all 
the  buildings  on  my  father's  farm  having  been  destroyed,  I' pur- 
chased the  Newcomb  or  Bee  Hive  farm,  next  to  my  old  home, 
which  had  several  very  good  buildings  upon  it,  paying  $3500  for 
the  property,  making  arrangements  to  live  there  and  go  to  work 
as  a  farmer  in  my  old  neighborhood. 

I  put  men  to  work,  bought  lumber  and  other  property  at  Gov- 
ernment sales,  so  as  to  be  ready  to  go  ahead  in  civil  life  as  soon 
as  my  military  services  were  dispensed  with. 

My  regiment  was  ordered  to  New  York  and  there  mustered  out 
September  29,  but  not  being  relieved  to  go  with  it,  of  course  I 
had  to  remain  on  duty.  Finally  an  official  letter  was  sent  me  with 
an  order  to  turn  over  my  district  to  Captain  Smith,  which  I  did 
within  ten  days  after  receipt  of  the  order. 

While  transferring  my  property  to  the  officer  who  relieved  me 
I  obtained  a  pass  so  as  to  get  my  accounts  settled  at  the  depart- 
ment before  reporting  to  New  York  for  muster  out. 

Before  reporting  for  muster  out  I  settled  all  my  acounts  with 
the  Government  for  the  time  I  had  been  in  the  service,  receiving  a 
clearance  from  the  Second  Auditor's,  Treasury  Department, 
office. 


153 

The  following  is  one  of  the  peremptory  orders  received  by  me : 

B.  F.  R.  and  A.  L., 

Headquarters  Twenty-fifth  District  of  Virginia, 
Special  orders  Alexandria,  Va.,  September  4,  1865. 

No.  4. 

Capt.  G.  A.  Armes  will  immediately  proceed  to  the  house  of 
Mrs.  Nancy  Ratcliffe  and  bring  away  the  two  colored  children, 
Sarah  and  Fannie  Hooper,  still  held  as  slaves  by  said  Mrs.  Rat- 
cliffe, and  deliver  them  to  this  office. 

If  it  is  necessary  to  take  them  by  force  or  even  bloodshed,  let  it 
be  done.  The  purpose  of  this  Bureau  must  and  shall  be  carried  out 
so  far  as  in  the  power  of  the  Superintendent  of  this  District.  Captain 
Armes  will  attend  to  this  matter  in  person,  and  if  he  has  not  suffi- 
cient force  at  his  command,  he  will  call  on  Captain  Baker  at  Vienna 
for  more  men. 

JAMES  TERRELL, 

Asst.  Supt.  Fifth  Dist.  Va. 
CAPT.  GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Supt.  B.  R.  at  Fairfax  Court  House,  Va. 

Knowing  that  exaggerated  reports  were  being  made  to  the 
War  Department  and  General  Howard  by  the  negroes,  I  used 
discretion  in  the  execution  of  many  of  the  orders  I  received, 
always  taking  into  consideration  that  the  war  was  over  and  that 
a  white  man  ought  to  be  as  good  as  a  negro,  although  many  offi- 
cials who  were  in  power  at  that  time  acted  as  if  a  white  man  who 
happened  to  live  in  Virginia  should  have  no  rights. 

I  would  listen  to  both  sides  of  the  case  and  act  according  to  the 
reliable  evidence  offered. 

The  county  jail  was  at  my  disposal,  and  I  had  occasion  to  arrest 
a  great  many  persons  in  my  district,  but  did  not  jail  more  than 
five  or  six  during  the  time  I  commanded.  Many  of  these  arrested 
had  been  my  schoolmates  before  the  war,  or  I  knew  of  them  and 
took  their  word  and  promise  to  appear  for  trial  at  the  time  and 
place  given,  and  then  would  not  detain  a  person  longer  than  was 
necessary  to  settle  his  or  her  case.  Of  course  all  were  not  ac- 
quitted, and  I  found  it  my  duty  to  inflict  heavy  penalties  in  some 
cases. 

But  instead  of  shutting  them  up  in  jail  I  would  impose  a  fine, 
which  the  parties  would  agree  to  pay  at  a  fixed  time  and  furnish 
proper  security  for  the  payment,  upon  which  I  would  let  them  re- 
turn to  their  lands  and  families,  who  were  much  in  need  of  their 
presence  and  help.  By  this  course  I  rendered  justice  to  both 


154 

parties.  Many  men  returning  from  the  Confederate  Army  to 
their  lands  found  the  buildings,  fences  and  property  destroyed, 
and  in  some  cases  families  of  darkies  would  be  living  in  patched-up 
buildings  made  from  the  material  of  their  master's  dwelling- 
house  which  they  had  torn  down  and  carted  off  to  the  land  of 
some  one  else.  Sometimes  horses,  cattle,  hogs,  furniture,  and  in 
fact  all  kinds  of  property,  would  be  found  in  possession  of  Mr. 
Darkey,  who  would  not  give  anything  up,  but  claimed  every- 
thing, as  well  as  the  increase,  as  his  own.  In  settling  some  of  the 
cases  I  would  allow  the  darkey  to  retain  the  increase  of  the  stock 
that  he  proved  he  had  cared  for  and  attended  to  as  his  own,  but 
made  him  return  the  original  stock,  mares,  cows,  hogs,  sheep,  etc., 
as  nearly  as  it  was  possible  to  do  so,  with  all  the  furniture,  except 
bedding  and  such  things  as  were  actually  necessary  for  the  dar- 
kies' future  use. 

As  the  fences  were  all  down  and  stock  had  to  be  watched,  very 
often  the  darkey  would  let  his  stock  trespass  on  his  neighbor's 
grain  field  and  do  considerable  damage. 

When  a  cow  or  a  hog,  and  sometimes  a  horse,  belonging  to 
Mr.  Darkey  would  be  shot  by  the  returned  Confederate  soldier 
their  complaints  would  perhaps  come  to  me  or  go  to  the  Secretary 
of  War,  General  Auger  or  General  Howard,  who  would  send 
them  to  me  for  investigation  or  settlement  by  imposing  fines  and 
making  the  guilty  party  pay  the  owner  for  the  animal  killed.  I 
seemed  to  give  general  satisfaction,  and  to  such  an  extent  that 
many  called  upon  me  showing  a  disposition  to  forget  the  past ;  and 
in  talking  over  old  times  we  arranged  the  tournament  that  took 
place  on  the  5th  of  September,  1865,  to  be  known  as  the  "Grand 
Union  Tournament,"  already  described. 

If  my  memory  is  correct,  I  reported  in  New  York  for  muster 
out  on  October  20,  1865,  and  was  paid  up  to  the  date  of  receipt  of 
the  order  releasing  me  from  duty  in  the  Freedman's  Bureau, 
which  was  October  9,  1865,  but  nothing  for  the  ten  or  eleven 
days  I  was  detained  settling  my  acounts  in  Washinigton  in  com- 
pliance with  instructions  from  the  War  Department  already  men- 
tioned. Soon  after  returning  to  my  farm  in  Fairfax,  after  being 
mustered  out  of  the  military  service,  I  received  an  appointment 
as  surveyor  of  the  road  from  Accotink  to  Annandale. 

Within  a  few  days  I  had  my  forces  at  work,  and  soon  fixed  up 
the  road  in  good  shape.  Improving  my  farm  with  extra  out- 


>55 

buildings,  sheds,  a  good  post  and  rail  fence,  also  engaged  my 
efforts.  I  procured  several  kilns  of  oyster  shells,  which  I  burned 
and  spread  the  lime  over  the  land.  I  bought  horse-power  thresh- 
ing machines,  cutting-box  and  circular  saw  to  work  by  horse- 
power, and,  in  fact,  had  every  convenience  that  a  farmer  needed ; 
four  wagons,  two  carts,  thirteen  work  horses,  two  yoke  of  oxen, 
four  mules,  one  good  saddle,  two  driving  horses  and  one  good 
buggy.  Blacksmith  forge,  tools,  etc.,  were  also  secured. 

Having  made  several  miles  of  post  and  rail  fence  from  my  own 
timber,  many  tops,  of  trees  which  remained  were  cut  into  cord- 
wood  and  hauled  into  the  city  to  sell,  bringing  out  oyster  shells 
by  return  load.  While  engaged  in  this  work  I  would  often  meet 
officers  and  ex-officers  of  the  Army,  some  of  whom  advised  me 
to  give  up  farming  and  go  into  the  regular  Army. 

Among  them  was  General  Auger,  who  offered  to  give  me  a  let- 
ter which  I  could  use  if  I  made  up  my  mind  to  do  so,  and  wrote 
the  following : 

Headquarters  Department  of  Washington, 

Washington,  D.  C,  December  23,  1865. 

Captain  Armes  served  for  some  time  within  this  Department, 
and  from  all  the  reports  I  have  concerning  him  as  an  officer  dur- 
ing that  time  I  can  safely  state  that  he  gave  entire  satisfaction  in 
the  performance  of  his  duties. 

My  personal  knowledge  of  him  is  slight,  but  is  favorable  to  him. 
He  is  particularly  deserving,  as  being  a  resident  of  Virginia  at  the 
time  of  the  rebellion  he  immediately  espoused  the  Union  cause, 
and  he  has  served  in  our  Army  almost  continually  during  the  war. 
I  will  mention  another  event  highly  creditable  to  him,  as  showing 
a  true  soldierly  disposition:  He  gave  up  his  appointment  as  an 
officer  in  the  Veteran  Reserve  Corps  to  join  a  regiment  in  the 
field. 

(Signed)         C.  C.  AUGER, 
Maj.-Gen.,  U.  S.  A.,  commanding  Dept.  of  Washington. 

Soon  after  that  I  was  going  into  the  Metropolitan  Hotel  after 
oyster  shells  to  load  on  my  wagon.  I  met  General  Hancock  at 
the  door.  He  seemed  delighted  to  see  me  .  As  I  was  dressed  as 
a  farmer,  with  my  trousers  in  my  boots,  the  General  looked  at  me 
pretty  hard  and  wanted  to  know  what  I  was  doing.  "Farming 
in  Virginia,"  I  replied.  He  then  said  that  this  kind  of  life  was 
not  suited  to  me  and  I  had  best  go  into  the  cavalry  service  on  the 


156 

frontier ;  that  I  was  more  suited  to  the  life  of  a  soldier  than  that 
of  a  farmer.  I  began  to  think  so  myself  before  I  left,  as  I  did  not 
relish  the  hard  work  a  farmer  is  required  to  do  to  succeed  in 
Virginia. 

His  advice  so  impressed  me  that  I  began  to  look  for  some  one 
who  would  buy  my  farm,  and  I  sold  it  to  a  Mr.  King  for  $5500 
cash,  although  it  was  worth  $10,000. 

I  went  to  the  War  Department  with  letters  from  General  Han- 
cock, General  Tompkins  and  Senator  Joseph  Segar  of  my  State, 
and  was  at  once  appointed  a  Second  Lieutenant  in  the  Second 
United  States  Cavalry  and  handed  the  following  by  Captain 
E.  J.  Harrington,  who  was  on  duty  in  the  War  Department  at 
that  time  and  who  attended  to  the  matter  at  once : 

Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  May  22,  1866. 
SECOND  LFEUT.  GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Second  U.  S.  Cavalry. 
Care  of  CAPT.  E.  J.  HARRINGTON, 

A.  A.  G.  War  Department. 

I  forward  herewith  your  commission  as  Second  Lieutenant, 
your  receipt  and  acceptance  of  which  you  will  please  acknowledge 
without  delay,  reporting  at  the  same  time  your  age  and  residence 
when  appointed,  the  State  where  born,  and  full  name  correctly 
written.  Fill  up,  subscribe  and  return  as  soon  as  possible  the  ac- 
companying oath,  duly  and  carefully  executed.  Should  you  ac- 
cept the  enclosed  commission,  you  will,  after  complying  with  the 
above  instructions,  report  at  once  to  Carlisle  Barracks,  Pennsyl- 
vania, and  report  for  duty  to  the  commanding  officer  of  the  post. 
I  arn,  sir,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         J.  C.  KELTON, 

Asst.  Adj. -Gen. 

Chief  Quartermaster's  Office,  Depot  of  Washington, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  January  2,  1866. 

T  have  known  Mr.  Arnies  for  five  years,  and  believe  him  fully 
worthy  of  the  position  he  seeks,  in  a  commission  in  the  II.  S. 
Army. 

Mr.  Armes  has  rendered  important  service  to  the  Government 
rn  Fever?!  occasions,  and  I  can  testify  to  his  bravery,  loyalty  and 
integrity. 

(Signed)         CHAS.  H.  TOMPKINS, 

Rvt.  Col.  and  Q.  M. 


HON.  E.  M.  STANTON, 

Secretary  of  War. 

Roseland,  Va.,  January  7,  1866. 

Sir — If  the  authority  pertains  to  me  as  Senator-elect  for  Vir- 
ginia to  designate  anyone  for  appointment  in  the  regular  Army, 
I  have  no  hesitation  in  urging  for  such  appointment  Maj.  Geo.  A. 
Armes  of  Fairfax  county,  Virginia. 

I  make  this  recommendation  after  a  full  examination  of  his 
claims,  both  on  the  basis  of  moral  merit  and  actual  military  ser- 
vice, and  on  such  examination  1  do  not  hesitate  to  express  very 
confidently  the  opinion  that  very  few  young  men  can  present 
higher  evidence  of  fitness  for  the  military  service. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be, 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         Jos.  SEGAR. 

I  reported  to  Colonel  Gibbs,  commanding  Carlisle  Barracks, 
Pennsylvania,  for  duty  June  u,  1866,  where  I  met  Second  Lieu- 
tenant Buford,  Fifteenth  Infantry,  and  First  Lieut.  Walter  Corn- 
stock,  Seventeenth  Infantry,  who  were  ordered  with  me  to  our 
regiment.  We  stopped  over  night  at  Harrisburg  and  parted  next 
day.  The  latter,  who  was  a  brother  of  Gen.  C.  Comstock,  U.  S.  A., 
went  to  Nashville,  Tenn.,  and  died  soon  after. 

I  present  the  following  from  Mr.  Seward,  whom  I  called  upon 
just  before  leaving  Washington  for  the  frontier,  his  letter  being 
in  his  own  handwriting.  I  have  preserved  the  original  to  this  day. 
While  with  him  in  the  department  he  addressed  me  as  his  son,  as 
"Good  morning,  my  son." 

Well,  my  son,  you  will  find  that  for  a  few  years  (I  hope  many) 
wars  and  troubles  will  cease.  I  hope  that  they  may  not  return  in 
your  day,  as  I  feel  sure  that  they  will  not  in  mine.  Of  course,  I  say 
these  things  with  reference  to  our  own  country,  not  with  regard 
to  foreign  nations,  which  have  been  at  peace,  while  we  have  been 
an  exception,  involved  in  having  civil  war. 

(Signed)         WILLIAM  H.  SEWARD. 

June  9,  1866. 

The  following  letters,  among  others,  were  also  handed  to  me  by 
the  writer  to  use  if  necessary  among  the  strangers  on  the  frontier : 


158 
r 

War  Department,  Bureau  of  Refugees,  Freedmen  and  Abandoned 

Lands, 

Washington,  March  25,  1866. 
Capt.  Geo.  A.  Arrnes: 

Dear  Sir  —  1  am  much  pleased  with  your  resolution  to  take  a 
firm  stand  for  what  is  right.  You  will  find  many  temptations  to 
do  wrong  in  the  ordinary  garrison  life  of  the  Army,  and  you  must, 
therefore,  constantly  seek  the  Divine  blessing  and  direction. 

To  be  judicious,  to  win  the  respect  and  love  of  your  companions 
and  to  abstain  from  every  appearance  of  evil  is  necessary  for  a 
Christian  man  to  produce  good  fruit,  but  it  will  always  require 
watchfulness  and  prayer. 

Very  truly  yours, 

O.  O.  HOWARD, 

Major-General. 


jOcpattwrnt  of  ^ 

X  :>.  d  A  It  M  Y   C  O  HI' 


/  * 


159 

gratlqttayte  g*jjartrnnii  of 

OFFICE  OF  CHIEF  QUARTERMASTER, 


On  my  way  from  Harrisburg  to  New  York  I  stopped  over  one 
train  at  Columbia,  Pa.,  to  see  my  brother  Wiliam  Edward,  who 
had  entered  the  military  school  there  immediately  after  his  re- 
turn from  the  Southern  Army,  where  he  had  served  with  Gen- 
eral Stuart  until  the  General  was  killed.  I  dined  with  Professor 
Alexander,  proprietor  of  the  institute.  After  presenting  my 
brother  with  a  pair  of  Captain's  shoulder  straps,  he  having  been 
promoted  from  the  ranks  to  a  Captain  of  cadets  within  two  years 
after  entering  the  school,  I  bade  him  a  final  adieu,  landing  in  New 
York  City  June  13,  the  guest  of  C.  C.  Field. 

In  my  journal  I  wrote  : 

Cleveland,  Ohio,  June  14,  1866. 

Arrived  here  in  time  to  breakfast  with  Major  Brownston,  for- 
merly of  General  Hancock's  staff,  who  took  me  through  the  most 
interesting  parts  of  the  city  during  the  day.  After  securing  a 
sleeper,  I  bade  him  and  my  friends  good-bye. 


i6o 

Springfield,  111.,  St.  Nichol's  Hotel,  June  16,  1866. 
Met  Lieutenant  Eddie,  formerly  Acting  Adjutant-General  to 
General  Tidball  in  the  old  Second  Corps.  After  we  attended  St. 
Paul's  Church  we  took  in  most  of  the  city,  visiting  Oak  Ridge 
Cemetery,  saw  the  tomb  or  vault  of  President  Lincoln  and  regis- 
tered at  the  sexton's  office,  then  visited  the  house  Mr.  Lincoln 
lived  in  before  the  war.  I  was  surprised  to  see  such  a  plain  house, 
and  not  in  the  best  part  of  the  city  at  that.  The  yard  being  filled 
with  flowers  and  plants  made  it  a  very  attractive-looking  place. 

Fort  Leavenworth,  Kan.,  June  22,  1866. 

On  my  way  here  from  St.  Louis  I  stopped  over  at  Jefferson 
City  to  attend  a  reception  given  by  an  old  friend  of  mine  by  the 
name  of  Clarke.  Met  Governor  Fletcher  and  a  number  of  very 
pretty  girls.  I  being  in  full-dress  uniform  seemed  to  catch  the 
latter's  eye,  many  of  them  coming  to  the  depot  to  say  good-bye. 
Upon  arriving  at  Kansas  City  I  had  to  take  the  steamboat  for 
this  place,  as  the  railroad  ends  there.  Had  a  very  pleasant  chat 
with  ex-Major-General  Blunt  of  known  fame. 

Arriving  at  the  post,  the  Adjutant  informed  me  that  the  head- 
quarters of  my  regiment  was  at  Fort  Ellsworth,  between  two 
and  three  hundred  miles  west,  but  handed  me  an  order  to  report 
to  Fort  Riley  first. 

I  then  called  on  General  In  galls,  an  old  friend,  formerly  Chief 
Quartermaster  of  General  Grant's  Army,  who  introduced  me  to 
Colonel  Potter,  the  Department  Quartermaster,  requesting  him 
to  fix  me  up  with  the  best  pair  of  horses  he  could  pick  out  and  a 
full  outfit  for  the  plains. 

Colonel  Potter  showed  me  every  kindness  that  one  officer  could 
show  to  another,  sending  me  his  headquarter  ambulance  to  ride 
back  to  the  hotel,  about  four  miles  from  the  post.  Declined  an  in- 
vitation from  Colonel  Shurbon  of  General  Pope's  staff  to  be  his 
guest  at  the  post.  Having  known  the  Colonel  for  several  years 
in  Washington,  I  felt  as  if  I  had  met  a  long-lost  brother  here 
among  so  many  strangers. 

Have  met  many  officers  and  seen  about  all  there  is  to  be  seen 
of  the  city,  and  am  sorry  I  cannot  remain  longer. 


JMrmiw  .of  the  United  J>'lnte.:i, 


Osage,  Kansas,  June  23,  1866. 

Colonel  Potter  sent  me  a  nice  ambulance,  four  mules  and  my 
horses  and  equipments  to  the  hotel  this  morning,  and  after  getting 
my  rations,  cooking  utensils  and  bidding  friends  at  the  hotel 
good-bye,  have  driven  thirty-five  miles  today,  passing  many 
wagons  loaded  with  supplies  for  the  frontier  posts.  Some  of  them 
were  stuck  in  the  mud  with  twenty  yoke  of  cattle  trying  to  pull 
them  out.  The  many  long  trains  with  from  six  to  fourteen  yoke 
of  cattle  to  each  wagon  was  a  grand  sight  to  me.  I  am  now  in 
camp  on  the  prairie,  and  my  cook  is  getting  my  supper  in  Army 
out-door  style. 

Mission,  Kan.,  June  24,  1866. 

I  drove  forty  miles  through  a  beautiful  country  tha-t  seems  to 
be  settling  up  very  fast  by  the  white  men,  who  have  brought 
horses,  cattle,  sheep  and  hogs  here,  established  homes,  and  are 
bound  to  prosper. 


162 

The  Pottawatomie  Indians  own  most  of  the  land  in  this  section, 
but  are  a  lazy,  worthless  set. 

Manhattan,  Kan.,  June  25,  1866. 

I  started  at  six  o'clock  this  morning  and  overtook  General 
Sykes  and  his  command,  wrho  are  on  their  way  to  New  Mexico. 
I  kept  along  with  the  command  until  after  three  o'clock,  meeting 
Captain  Snyder  and  Lieutenant  Dugan,  Fifth  Infantry;  Lieu- 
tenant Hamilton,  Third  Cavalry,  and  a  number  of  other  officers 
who  are  on  their  way  to  establish  their  homes  on  the  frontier. 
One  of  the  men  of  the  Fifth  Infantry  was  sunstruck  and  died 
while  on  the  march.  A  grave  was  dug  by  the  side  of  the  road, 
and  he  was  wrapped  in  his  blanket  and  buried.  There  has  been 
quite  a  little  settlement  here  and  some  very  good  building  put  up 
out  of  a  soft  stone  that  can  be  cut  with  an  axe  or  formed  into  any 
shape,  but  hardens  when  exposed  to  the  air.  Only  drove  thirty- 
five  miles  today. 

Fort  Riley,  Kan.,  June  26,  1866. 

Maj.  O.  D.  Green  of  the  Adjutant-General's  department  came 
to  Manhattan  in  the  stage  last  night,  but  rode  from  there  to  his 
post  in  my  ambulance,  and  upon  our  arrival  at  eleven  o'clock  this 
morning  he  introduced  me  to  Major  Norris  of  my  regiment  (Sec- 
ond Cavalry),  who  commands  this  post,  and  who  invited  me  to 
be  his  guest. 

He  introduced  me  to  Lieut.  G.  W.  H.  Stough  of  the  Third  In- 
fantry, also  to  Lieut.  E.  J.  Spauldmg  and  his  wife,  of  my  regiment. 

After  dinner  Lieutenant  Spaulding  and  I  rode  to  Junction  City, 
about  three  miles  from  this  post,  where  I  completed  my  camp  out- 
fit, as  my  company  is  stationed  over  three  hundred  miles  farther 
west. 

Solomon  City,  Kan.,  June  26,  1866. 

Capt.  R.  B.  Owen,  post  quartermaster,  furnished  me  four  fresh 
mules  for  my  ambulance  and  a  six-mule  team  to  carry  my  bag- 
gage and  forage  for  my  saddle  horses  to  Fort  Ellsworth,  the  head- 
quarters of  my  regiment.  If  I  had  been  a  Brigadier-General  I 
could  not  have  received  more  attention  at  the  hands  of  Major 
Norris  and  Lieutenant  Stough  and  all  the  officers  than  I  did  dur- 
ing my  stay  over  at  Riley.  Mr.  A.  M.  Hill,  who  claimed  to  have 
been  with  Gen.  Ward  B.  Burnett,  took  me  to  some  springs  which 
were  discovered  in  1849  at  the  time  of  the  big  Indian  fight,  where 


they  were  so  badly  whipped.  The  Indians  considered  it  bad  med- 
icine to  drink  the  water,  and  it  is  said  no  Indian  has  ever  drunk 
out  of  it  since. 

Fort  Ellsworth,  Kan.,  June  28,  1866, 

After  crossing  two  prairies  and  driving  fifty-three  miles,  I 
arrived  here  at  dark  this  evening  and  reported  to  Col.  I.  N. 
Palmer  of  the  Second  Cavalry,  who  gave  me  my  orders  at  once 
to  take  the  next  stage  going  to  Denver,  C.  T.,  and  report  to  the 
commanding  officers  of  my  company,  M,  for  duty  at  Pond  Creek, 
Kan.  He  then  introduced  me  to  the  officers  of  the  regiment  on 
duty  here. 

Capt.  John  Green  invited  me  to  be  his  guest  and  introduced  me 
to  his  wife,  a  very  entertaining  and  pleasant  lady  and  a  sister  to  the 
wife  of  Surgeon-General  Hammond  of  New  York. 

Captain  Green  and  I  then  adjourned  to  the  sutler's,  where  Col- 
onel Palmer  and  Lieutenant  Lester  soon  joined  us. 

Soon  after  the  Colonel  and  his  Adjutant  came  to  Captain 
Green's  quarters  with  the  plans  for  a  new  post  to  be  called  Fort 
Wallace,  which  he  wished  me  to  take  with  me  to  my  camp  and 
help  select  a  place  to  build  it. 

After  explaining  all  the  details  and  meeting  Brevet  Brig.-Gen, 
Theophilus  F.  Rodenbough,  a  Captain  in  the  regim'ent,  who 
helped  entertain  us  until  after  twelve  o'clock,  they  bade  me  good 
night,  wishing  me  a  safe  journey  through  the  war  parties  of  In- 
dians, who  were  committing  their  depredations,  burning  stage 
stations  murdering  everyone  they  could  intercept  along  the 
route. 

Department,  of  State, 

Washington,  June  27,  1866. 
Lieut.  George  A.  Armes, 

Second  U.  S.  Cavalry, 

Fort  Leavenworth,  Kan. : 

Lieutenant — I  give  you  my  hearty  thanks  for  your  interesting 
letter  of  the  2oth  inst,  which  I  have  attentively  read. 
I  am,  Lieutenant, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

WILL  H.  SEWARD. 

On  the  stage  en  route  to  Pond  Creek,  Kan.,  June  29,  1866. 
I  was  waked  up  by  the  sergeant  of  the  guard  at  two  o'clock  this 


1 64 

morning  and  found  the  stage  waiting  for  me  and  full  of  passengers 
armed  to  the  teeth  with  Winchester  Henry  rifles,  shotguns, 
pistols  and  revolvers,  knives  and  dirks,  ready  to  defend  themselves 
against  the  Indians,  who  were  liable  to  charge  upon  the.  stage 
most  anywhere  between  Ellsworth  and  Denver.  An  overland 
coach  is  something  to  be  compared  with  an  Army  tent,  as  far  as 
finding  room  for  one  more  is  concerned.  I  secured  a  place  where 
I  could  sit  straight  up,  and  by  four  o'clock  was  asleep,  but  just  as 
the  sun  was  rising  I  was  startled  by  one  of  the  passengers  shaking 
me  by  the  shoulder  and  saying  "Indians  !"  As  I  opened  my  eyes  1 
saw  Che  passengers  getting  out  their  firearms,  and  was  so  startled  T 
hardly  knew  what  to  do  first  except  to  draw  my  six-shooter  and 
wait  for  further  developments.  It  was  not  very  long  ere  we  found 
out  that  a  large  herd  of  buffaloes  was  coming  toward  the  road, 
which  were  first  thought  to  be  Indians.  They  ran  alongside  of  the 
stage  for  more  than  a  mile,  giving  us  all  a  chance  to  fire  into  them, 
but  without  effect  as  far  as  we  could  see,  although  at  least  two 
hundred  shots  were  fired  by  us  before  the  last  buffalo  crossed  in 
front  of  the  stage.  The  driver  told  me  that  herds  of  two  or  three 
hundred  thousand  would  often  try  to  cross  the  road  in  front  of 
the  stage,  and  often  run  by  the  side  of  it  for  miles  and  close  enough 
for  the  pasengers  to  kill  them  if  they  were  shot  in  the  right  place. 
The  same  could  be  said  of  the  antelope,  only  they  would  run  faster 
and  not  remain  by  the  side  of  the  stage  so  long  as  the  buffalo  be- 
fore crossing  the  road  in  front. 

The  drivers  as  well  as  the  mules  seemed  to  enjoy  the  races, 
which  are  often  kept  up  for  over  ten  miles  before  the  last  buffalo 
or  antelope  crosses  over.  Never  having  seen  a  buffalo  before,  I 
became  quite  interested  in  the  grand  sight  of  the  hundreds  of 
thousands  that  covered  the  plains  and  looked  like  large  herds  of 
cattle  at  a  distance. 

Soon  after  the  buffalo  had  all  crossed  in  our  front  the  drivers 
informed  us  that  the  way  they  were  scattered  and  confused  was  a 
sure  sign  that  Indians  were  not  very  far  off,  and  then  we  began  to 
wish  that  we  had  saved  our  ammunition,  but  some  of  us  had 
plenty.  About  nine  o'clock,  before  we  drove  up  to  the  station  to 
change  our  team  and  get  breakfast  the  driver  called  our  attention 
to  the  smoke  ahead  of  us,  stating  that  the  Indians  must  have  de- 
stroyed the  station,  and  as  we  drew  near  the  bodies  of  the  three 


men,  which  were  filled  with  arrows  and  scalped,  was  a  sickening 
sight.  One  man  was  the  keeper,  another  the  cook,  and  the  other 
stock-tender.  All  the  mules  and  harnesses  had  been  carried  off 
and  fires  started  in  every  place  where  anything  of  value  would 
burn.  Not  being  able  to  get  the  breakfast  we  expected,  we  had  to 
fall  back  on  the  lunch  we  had  with  us.  After  covering  the  bodies 
of  the  murdered  men,  we  came  on  the  next  station,  about  fifteen 
or  twenty  miles  farther,  where  we  had  a  splendid  dinner,  consist- 
ing of  beans,  pork,  fried  buffalo  and  antelope  and  short  cake,  hot. 

Pond  Creek,  Kan.,  June  30,  1866. 

More  men  and  mules  were  telegraphed  for  to  replace  what  the 
Indians  had  made  way  with  and  the  station  ordered  to  be  re- 
established. 

I  reached  this  camp  about  four  o'clock  this  afternoon  and  rode 
over  one  hundred  miles,  seeing  but  few  trees  and  buffaloes  on  the 
barren  plains,  which  has  a  thick  sod  of  buffalo  grass  about  two  or 
three  inches  high,  said  to  be  very  nutritious.  Upon  my  arrival  I 
reported  to  First  Lieut.  A.  E.  Bates,  Second  Cavalry  (now  Pay- 
master-General, LI.  S.  A.),  who  is  commanding  the  company. 
Our  Captain,  John  Mix,  being  absent  on  recruiting  service,  he  in- 
troduced me  to  Capt.  James  T.  Jordan,  Sixth  Infantry,  United 
States  Volunteers,  and  his  First  Lieutenant,  Flood,  Post  Quar- 
termaster ;  also  to  Lieutenant  Adams  of  the  Second  Cavalry,  who 
has  been  on  duty  with  the  troop,  and  to  Dr.  Turner,  Post  Surgeon. 
The  above-named  officers  with  one  company  of  infantry  compose 
the  command  here,  and  all  quartered  in  tents. 

Pond  Creek,  Kan.,  July  I,  1866. 

Was  called  up  to  attend  my  first  reveille  at  four  o'clock  this 
morning,  after  which  I  attended  stables,  which  means  that  I  super- 
intended the  grooming  of  the  company  horses.  They  are  tied  to 
a  large  rope  outdoors,  and  each  cavalryman  grooms  his  own 
horse,  unless  he  is  absent  on  other  duty,  when  other  men  of  the 
company  are  required  to  do  it.  We  ate  breakfast  at  seven  this 
morning  and  had  monthly  inspection  at  eight  o'clock.  At  nine 
o'clock  Lieutenant  Bates  had  some  horses  saddled,  and  with  Lieu- 
tenant Flood,  the  guide  (Comstock)  and  about  twenty  men  as  an 
escort,  we  took  a  ride  over  the  prairie  and  shot  four  buffaloes. 
My  orderly  killed  ten  or  fifteen  rattlesnakes  and  gave  the  rattles 
to  me.  I  to-day  received  the  following  order  : 


1 66 


<£Y**e^c 


July  2,  1866. 

Lieutenant  Bates  did  not  get  up  this  morning,  but  left  the  morn- 
ing work  for  the  Second  Lieutenant  (your  humble  servant).  After 
breakfast  I  borrowed  his  razor  and  brush  and  shaved  myself  for 
the  first  time  in  my  life,  but  could  not  get  anything  but  a  little  fine 
fuzz.  Lieutenant  Bates  then  issued  an  order  making  me  Post 
Adjutant,  and  I  mounted  guard  for  the  first  time  since  1863.  I  got 
through  it  without  a  mistake,  which  makes  me  feel  quite  proud, 
as  I  was  so  closely  watched  by  the  West  Point  officers  here.  Lieu- 
tenant Bates  drilled  the  mounted  men  and  gave  me  a  few  recruits 
to  drill  for  an  hour  or  so  today.  I  sent  a  detail  of  ten  men  to 
quarry  out  stone  for  the  new  post  as  soon  as  we  can  find  a  site  to 
build  it  on.  Our  company  consists  of  about  ninety  splendid  young 
men  and  one  hundred  bay  horses. 

July  3,  1866, 

I  had  guard  mounting  and  inspection  at  eight  o'clock  this  morn- 
ing, and  with  two  exceptions  men  looked  well.  I  notified  the  ser- 
geant-major that  hereafter  I  would  select  the  neatest  man  for  the 
commanding  officer's  orderly,  and  hoped  that  I  would  not  have 
occasion  to  find  fault  with  the  bad  appearance  of  any  more  men. 
I  spent  most  of  the  day  in  making  myself  familiar  with  the  duties" 
of  my  new  office  and  studying  cavalry  tactics. 


i67 

July  4,  1866. 

After  guard  mount  this  morning  Lieutenant  Bates  and  I  took 
the  plans  for  the  new  post  and  rode  out  to  select  the  ground.  We 
selected  a  beautiful  site  near  the  Smoky  Hill  river  near  a  large 
stone  quarry,  where  stone  could  be  cut  out  with  an  axe  and  sawed 
into  any  shape  required.  Lieutenant  Bates  then  sent  an  orderly 
to  camp  after  a  detachment  of  men,  who  were  immediately  put 
at  work  digging  foundations  for  our  building  and  getting  out 
stone.  After  the  men  had  gotten  fairly  to  work  we  started  to  re- 
turn to  camp,  and  while  Lieutenant  Bates'  horse  was  galloping 
over  the  prairie  he  stepped  into  a  prairie-dog  hole,  falling,  throw- 
ing Lieutenant  Bates  over  his  head  and  injuring  him  severely. 

I  had  to  send  for  an  ambulance  to  bring  him  into  camp,  where 
he  was  put  to  bed,  and  is  now  under  the  care  of  Dr.  Turner,  who 
says  with  careful  attention  he  will  be  out  in  a  few. days.  We  h&\~?. 
named  the  post  Fort  Wallace, 

July  5,  1866. 

Lieutenant  Bates  not  being  able  for  duty,  the  command  of  the 
company  devolves  upon  me.  Drilling  is  suspended  while  the  new 
work  is  going  on. 

July  7,  1866. 

Lieutenant  Flood,  the  Post  Quartermaster,  and  I  went  on  a  re- 
connoiter  and  came  across  a  pack  of  wolves  instead  of  Indians. 
We  gave  chase  to  a  large  white  wolf,  emptying  our  revolvers  sev- 
eral times  without  any  seeming  effect. 

July  9,  1866. 

Lieutenant  Bates  is  now  able  for  duty,  and  has  assumed  com- 
mand, ordering  me  upon  a  board  of  survey  to  inspect  a  lot  of  corn 
and  beef,  which  I  found  unfit  for  use.  While  riding  out  this  after- 
noon I  got  into  a  nest  of  rattlesnakes,  killing  four  of  them. 

July  n,  1866. 

Immediately  after  breakfast  this  morning  we  commenced  to 
move  our  camp  to  the  new  post,  where  we  had  put  up  our  tents 
and  made  two  very  pretty  streets.  My  tent  was  the  first  to  go  up, 
and  is  the  first  officer's  tent  pitched  at  this  post.  I  had  the  picket 
rope  for  the  horses  and  the  tents  all  put  up  before  three  this  after- 
noon. 

We  officers  have  to  go  four  miles  for  our  meals,  as  the  stage 
station  is  the  nearest  building  to  our  new  post,  but  we  will  soon 
start  a  mess  of  our  own. 


168 

Fort  Wallace,  Kan.,  July  14,  1866. 

1  was  appointed  Post  Treasurer  in  addition  to  being  Post  Ad- 
jutant. Today  Private  Wiliams  of  my  troop  was  badly  kicked 
while  trying  to  catch  a  mule  out  on  herd.  I  detailed  another  man 
for  guard  in  his  place.  Captain  Scott,  late  Quartermaster  of  Vol- 
unteers, just  arrived  with  his  appointment  as  our  sutler. 

July  16,  1866, 

Lieutenant  Bates,  Captain  Scott,  Lieutenant  Flood,  Dr.  Turner 
and  myself,  with  a  few  men  as  our  escort  to  watch  the  Indians, 
took  a  horseback  ride  to  the  mountains,  and  I  saw  more  deer, 
wolves,  rabbits,  antelopes,  buffaloes  and  rattlesnakes  than  I  ever 
saw  before. 

July  17,  1866. 

Dr.  Turner  and  myself  were  ordered  to  superintend  the  unload- 
ing of  twenty-five  wagons  of  corn,  and  \ve  found  a  shortage  of 
fifty-five  bushels.  Private  Hailey  became  so  drunk  and  boisterous 
that  1  could  not  control  him  without  severe  usage,  and  reported 
him  to  Lieutenant  Bates,  commanding  company,  who  ordered  me 
to  make  a  spread-eagle  of  him.  I  innocently  asked  him  how,  when 
he  flew  into  a  rage,  reminding  me  that  I  was  not  in  the  volunteer 
service,  and  when  ordered  to  do  anything  never  to  ask  a  question, 
but  promptly  obey.  I  at  once  started  to  get  my  prisoner,  and 
Lieutenant  Bates,  perhaps  feeling  that  I  did  not  really  understand 
the  meaning  of  ''spread-eagle, "  came  out  and  told  the  sergeant 
of  the  guard  to  bring  him  an  axe,  some  picket  pins  and  rope, 
when  he  had  the  pins  driven  into  the  ground  and  ordered  four 
men  to  place  Private  Hailey  on  his  back,  straighten  his  arms  and 
stretch  out  his  legs  and  tie  them  to  the  pins,  where  he  was  kept 
in  the  hot  sun  for  several  hours  until  he  was  subdued. 

July  22,  1866. 

We  had  general  inspection  this  morning,  and  Lieutenant  Bates 
found  everything  in  splendid  shape,  but  one  man  who  had  care- 
lessly left  one  button  of  his  coat  undone.  The  man  started  to 
make  an  excuse,  when  Lieutenant  Bates  grasped  his  throat  and 
choked  him  until  his  eyes  and  tongue  bulged  out,  and  the  man 
had  nothing  more  to  say.  This  afternoon  all  the  officers  and  T  took 
a  horseback  ride  and  hunt  over  some  new  country  which  no 
white  man  had  ever  seen  before. 


'Fort  Wallace,  Kan.,  July  23,  1866. 

The  well  is  now  sixty  feet  deep ;  nothing  but  slate  rock  comes 
up,  which  smells  like  coal  oil.  We  have  about  fifty  soldiers  at 
work  building  stable  wall,  etc.  Reports  say  that  small  war  parties 
of  Indians  were  seen  between  here  and  Denver. 

August  i,  1866. 

The  long-expected  supply  train  came  in  today,  and  Dr.  Turner 
and  myself  were  the  board  to  receive  the  flour,  beans  and  corn. 

General  Palmer,  Colonel  of  the  regiment,  Captain  and  Brevet 
Gen.  T.  Rodenbough  and  Captain  Harrison  arrived  today  and 
enjoyed  a  splendid  dinner  which  I  had  gotten  up  for  the  occasion. 
After  a  very  close  inspection  of  my  company,  General  Palmer 
complimented  me,  saying  he  was  very  much  pleased  with  every- 
thing and  had  no  suggestions  to  make.  Captain  Harrison,  the 
district  inspector,  gave  me  a  close  inspection  at  retreat,  and  said 
he  was  glad  to  see  the  men,  clothing  and  equipments  looking  so 
neat,  and  complimented  me  for  the  good  condition  in  which  he 
found  everything. 

August  5,  1866. 

Comstock,  the  guide,  came  in  after  a  long  scout.  He  dis- 
covered a  new  spring  within  twenty  miles  of  the  post  and  reports 
having  seen  thousands  of  wild  horses  fifty  or  sixty  miles  north- 
west of  the  post. 

August  15,  1866. 

Sergeant  Wakeman  was  put  on  duty  this  morning  as  sergeant 
of  the  guard,  reporting  that  a  band  of  Indians  was  seen  within 
twenty  miles  of  the  the  post.  I  have  the  men  in  readiness  to  go 
farther  if  ordered. 

August  17,  1866. 

When  I  rode  up  to  the  stage  today  to  deliver  some  mail  a  beau- 
tiful young  lady  handed  me  a  Harpers  Monthly  and  asked  me  if  I 
would  accept  it  from  her.  I  did  so  and  thanked  her.  As  she  was 
the  first  young  lady  I  had  seen  for  several  months,  her  pleasant 
and  generous  manner  made  me  almost  fall  in  love  with  her,  but  I 
was  unable  to  get  her  name.  Lieutenant  Bates  gave  orders  to  the 
sutler  today  not  to  let  an  enlisted  man  have  any  whiskey  unless 
in  the  presence  of  a  commissioned  officer. 

August  1 8,  1866. 

My  cook,  Hanford,  was  so  drunk  this  morning  that  I  had  to 
put  Private  Ellis  in  his  place  to  get  breakfast.  As  the  Indians  are 
near  here,  I  have  been  getting  the  men  ready  to  go  on  scout. 


170 

August  19,  1866. 

We  marched  about  twenty  miles  today,  but  saw  no  signs  of 
Indians,  and  returned  to  the  post. 

August  20,  1866. 

Lieutenant  Bates  has  given  orders  that  I  attend  whiskey  calls 
and  march  the  men  to  the  sutler's  two  or  three  times  a  day,  and 
not  let  any  men  have  more  than  one  drink  at  a  time. 

August  24,  1866. 

About  two  this  afternoon  ''Spotted  Horse,"  chief  of  a  party  of 
Cheyenne  dog  soldiers,  made  us  a  visit  with  thirty  or  forty  of  his 
warriors,  dressed  as  if  they  were  on  the  warpath.  Comstock,  our 
guide,  introduced  the  three  chiefs  to  all  of  us,  and  we  had  quite 
a  chat  and  smoke,  which  we  had  to  indulge  in  or  the  Indians 
would  have  considered  it  quite  an  insult.  We  treated  them  well, 
although  we  knew  they  were  spies  and  only  came  into  the  post  to 
see  how  many  men  we  had.  Leiutenant  Bates  let  the  Indians  go 
among  the  men  and  exchange  their  moccasins,  beads  and  buffalo 
robes  with  our  soldiers,  who  exchanged  sugar,  tobacco  and 
Mankets  for  what  they  got  from  the  Indians.  I  exchanged  a 
blouse  for  a  bow  and  quiver  full  of  arrows  and  a  rawhide  lariat. 
The  Indians  did  not  leave  until  sundown. 

August  27,  1866. 

Comstock,  the  guide,  who  has  been  absent  from  the  post  two 
or  three  days  watching  the  Indians  who  made  us  a  visit  the  other 
day,  came  in  this  evening  with  one  or  two  families  of  ranchmen, 
who  had  been  warned  by  the  Indians  to  leave  the  country  within 
ten  days,  as  their  ranches  would  be  burned  and  no  mercy  shown 
to  anyone  found.  The  men  have  decided  to  return  to  their  prop- 
erty and,  if  necessary,  fight  it  out  and  hold  their  own  if  possible. 
Lieutenant  Bates  has  telegraphed  for  more  ordnance  stores,  guns, 
ammunition,  etc. 

August  29,  1866. 

At  one  o'clock  this  afternoon  four  six-mule  teams  came  into  the 
post  from  Fort  Lyon,  the  nearest  to  ours,  loaded  with  ordnance 
stores,  ammunition,  etc.,  also  three  splendid  howitzers,  so  we  are 
pretty  well  provided.  Several  families  of  the  settlers  came  into 
the  post  for  protection  from  the  Indians  this  evening.  A  party 
of  us  went  on  a  short  scout  this  afternoon  and  gave  chase  to  a 
pack  of  wolves.  I  killed  one  with  my  revolver  after  firing  twelve 


of  fifteen  shots  at  him  from  my  horse  at  a  full  run.    It  is  the  first 
wolf  I  ever  killed,  and  I  felt  rather  proud  of  the  event. 

August  31,  1866. 

Quite  a  commotion  was  created  today  upon  the  arrival  of  Pay- 
master Smith  and  Judge  Chamberlain  of  Denver,  who  is  his  guest. 
He  reported  having  several  narrow  escapes  from  the  Indians,  who 
have  been  watching  him  for  the  past  two  days.  I  had  the  com- 
panies fall  in  line  and  Lieutenant  Bates  mustered  them.  The  men 
all  look  well,  and  will  give  Mr.  Indian  a  lively  tussle  if  he  comes 
this  way.  We  had  to  stop  getting  stone  at  the  quarry,  as  the 
Indians  are  after  the  mules,  and  we  have  not  enough  men  to 
guard  the  teams  while  hauling  stone. 

September  i,  1866. 

The  mail  last  night  brought  Lieutenant  Bates'  appointment  as 
Regimental  Quartermaster,  and  the  first  thing  this  morning  after 
breakfast  he  turned  the  command  of  the  company  over  to  me. 

Captain  John  Mix  of  the  troop  is  on  recruiting  service,  and  I 
have  no  idea  when  he  will  return.  Paymaster  Smith  paid  us  all  off 
today,  and  he  and  Judge  Chamberlain  left  for  Fort  Ellsworth, 
about  two  hundred  miles  east,  with  a  good  strong  escort.  Some  of 
my  men  got  pretty  drunk  this  afternoon,  and  all  seemed  to  be 
having  a  jolly  time,  as  soldiers  generally  do  after  payday.  I  put 
only  one  in  the  guardhouse. 

September  4,  1866. 

At  stables  this  morning  First  Sergeant  Miller  reported  Privates 
Humphreys  and  Dawson  had  deserted  during  the  night  with  two 
horses  from  the  picket  line.  I  at  once  put  the  corporal  of  the  stable 
guard  in  arrest  for  his  neglect  and  carelessness.  I  sent  Sergeant 
Allison  with  two  men  toward  Fort  Lyon  and  Corporal  Emerson 
and  two  men  toward  Fort  Ellsworth.  I  then  took  an  escort  from 
the  company  and  twenty-five  wagons  to  go  after  timber  for  the 
stables.  Comstock  killed  a  splendid  buffalo  this  evening,  and 
after  marching  twenty-five  miles  we  all  have  a  splendid  appetite 
to  relish  the  broiled  steak. 

Several  of  my  men  were  so  drunk  this  evening  that  they  could 
not  groom  their  horses,  so  I  had  the  first  sergeant  duck  them  all 
in  the  stream  of  deep  cold  water,  and  it  seemed  to  wake  them  up, 
for  after  a  few  dips  they  felt  able  to  attend  to  their  horses. 


I72 

Showbrugh  Creek,  Xeb.,  Septcm1)er  5,  1866. 
The  wagon  master  had  the  train  ready  early,  and  we  pulled  out 
at  sunrise.  I  put  my  flankers  out  on  each  side  of  the  train  and  left 
a  strong-  guard  in  the  rear,  while  I  rode  ahead  with  the  rest  of  the 
command.  About  ten  o'clock  in  the  forenoon  I  spied  seven 
buffaloes  and  started  after  them  with  my  orderly  and  guide,  firing 
at  least  thirty  shots  at  the  one  I  picked  out  before  I  killed  him. 
He  fought  like  a  tiger  for  a  while  and  charged  at  me  several  times 
with  his  eyes  shut,  but  I  put  spurs  to  my  horse  and  dodged  him 
every  time.  Comstock  killed  the  other  six  at  twenty  shots.  He 
killed  one  at  the  first  shot,  which  is  a  rare  thing  to  do,  even  by  the 
best  marksmen  on  the  plains.  1  caught  a  buffalo  calf  with  my 
lariat  and  brought  it  into  camp  this  evening.  My  men  all  seem 
well  pleased  with  the  change  of  getting  away  from  post  duty  and 
the  fatiguing  work  which  they  have  been  doing  so  long. 

Sinking  Water,  C.  T..  September  7,  1866. 

We  are  eighty  or  ninety  miles  from  Fort  Wallace,  Kansas.  I 
kiled  a  tremendous  buffalo  with  my  revolver  at  three  shots.  Com- 
stock killed  the  largest  buck  antelope  I  ever  saw.  I  have  pitched 
our  tents  on  the  stream  and  will  soon  have  our  wagons  loaded 
with  timbers.  I  keep  a  strong  guard  out  all  the  time  watching 
for  Indians  and  to  keep  from  being  surprised.  Comstock  and  I 
took  a  ride  over  the  country  where  no  white  man  had  ever  been 
before.  We  crossed  the  south  and  north  forks  of  the  Republican 
river.  The  north  fork  is  dry  and  sandy  in  the  daytime,  but  at 
night  there  is  from  three  to  six  feet  of  water  in  it.  Comstock  took 
me  up  one  of  the  branches  where  an  old  village  of  Indians  used 
to  be  and  where  he  lived  with  them  some  four  or  five  years  ago 
and  showed  me  the  graves  of  a  number  of  Indians  he  helped  to 
bury  in  the  tops  of  the  trees.  A  few  pieces  of  the  buffalo  rope,  a 
tomahawk  and  some  beads  were  found  under  one  of  the  trees 
which  had  dropped  from  the  body  above.  My  orderly  took  pos- 
session of  them  to  show  to  the  rest  of  the  men. 

September  9,  1866. 

This  being  Sunday,  I  let  the  men  rest,  except  the  guard  and  a 
small  escort  which  I  took  on  a  short  scout,  during  which  "we  dis- 
covered a  graveyard  where  the  bodies  of  hundreds  of  Indians 
were  lashed  to  the  bougfhs  of  trees  from  twenty  to  forty  feet  above 


173 

the  ground  and  secured  by  straps  of  rawhide  that  the  weather 
would  not  affect  for  years.  Some  of  the  men  found  wooden 
spoons,  pipes,  silver  bracelets  and  rings  that  had  fallen  from 
some  of  the  bodies  that  had  been  there  the  longest.  During 
the  scout  we  discovered  a  large  beaver  dam.  Leaving  our 
horses,  we  quietly  got  into  a  position  where  we  could  see  them 
work,  which  was  a  great  sight  to  me,  as  I  had  never  seen  them  at 
work  before.  I  asked  Comstock  to  shoot  a  very  large  one  that 
was  out  on  a  log  in  the  dam.  He  fired,  but  the  beaver  fell  in  the 
water,  and  as  it  was  twenty  or  thirty  feet  deep  and  not  a  man  with 
me  who  could  swim,  I  jumped  in  myself  and  swam  out  where  he 
he  was  floating  like  a  big  hog.  After  getting  him  ashore  I  was  so 
excited  that  the  men  had  to  help  me  out  of  the  water.  I  gave  the 
beaver  to  my  orderly  to  bring  into  camp,  and  on  my  way  in  made 
up  my  plans  with  Comstcck  how  to  cook  him  and  to  have  him 
skinned  so  that  it  could  be  stuffed  and  sent  home.  After  reaching 
my  tent  I  told  my  cook  to  take  charge  of  the  beaver,  and  he  re- 
ported that  the  stupid  orderly  had  tied  him  to  the  saddle  and  lost 
him.  I  ordered  him  back  to  get  that  beaver,  but  he  returned  in 
the  night  with  the  report  that  he  could  not  find  the  back  trail,  so 
1  vowed  that  I  would  not  promote  that  private  to  any  position 
as  long  as  I  had  command  of  the  company ;  he  is  too  stupid-. 

Shonotigh  Creek,  C.  T.,  September  13,  1866. 
All  my  wagons  being  loaded,  I  left  Sinking  Water  river  this 
morning  for  Fort  Wallace.  The  river  was  given  that  name,  I  am 
told,  because  six  months  of  the  year  the  water  is  from  four  to 
twenty  feet  deep  and  the  other  six  months  the  water  disappears. 
Nothing  but  the  dry  sand  or  bed  of  the  river  can  be  seen  in  the 
dry  time.  This  whole  country  is  covered  with  a  thick  sod,  and  the 
grass  the  best  I  ever  saw,  and  if  the  springs  and  streams  were  not 
so  far  apart  and  if  the  Indians  were  not  in  the  way  it  would  soon 
be  settled.  As  I  have  one  of  the  fastest-running  and  best-winded 
horses  I  ever  rode  before,  I  undertook  an  experiment  this  after- 
noon in  trying  to  run  an  antelope  down,  which  I  ran  for  ten  or 
fifteen  miles,  but  he  skipped  ahead  of  me  just  out  of  the  range  of 
my  pistol  compelling  me  to  give  up  the  chase,  as  I  could  not 
get  anywhere  near  him.  We  marched  thirty  miles  today  and 
brought  my  loaded  wagons  in  camp  O.  K. 


174 

Fort  Wallace,  Kan.,  September  18,  1866. 

We  are  all  back  to  the  post  in  good  shape.  Orders  were  tele- 
graphed me  to  be  sent  to  Fort  Lyon  to  General  Sherman,  and  I 
sent  Corporal  Carroll  in  charge  with  four  days'  rations  and  one 
hundred  rounds  of  ammunition.  Each  man  has  one  Spencer  car- 
bine and  two  Colt's  revolvers  and  a  saber.  I  went  out  with  twenty 
men  as  an  escort  on  a  buffalo  hunt,  and  one  old  bull,  after  he  was 
wounded,  charged  at  me.  Putting  spurs  to  my  horse,  I  got  out  of 
his  way,  but  he  caught  one  of  the  men's  horses  and  pitched  him 
up  on  his  horns  like  a  cow  would  a  dog  and  threw  the  man  off  at 
least  ten  feet,  hurting  his  arm.  We  killed  thirty  buffaloes,  and  it 
was  nine  o'clock  this  evening  before  reaching  camp. 

Big  Springs,  C.  T.,  September  19,  1866. 

Just  as  I  had  retired  last  night  after  my  hard  day's  ride  after 
buffalo  Sergeant  Dean  came  in  from  Cheyenne  Hills,  where  he 
had  been  on  escort  duty,  with  a  train  of  supplies,  and  reported 
that  three  of  his  men  had  deserted.  I  ordered  my  fast  horse,  a  cor- 
poral and  three  privates,  and  we  started  toward  Denver.  After 
riding  sixteen  or  eighteen  miles  a  terrible  thunder  and  rain  storm 
came  up,  and  it  grew  so  dark  we  could  not  see  the  road  and  had 
to  lie  down  on  the  prairie  until  it  was  light  enough  to  see,  when 
we  again  mounted  and  rode  on  until  within  two  miles  of  this 
station  we  met  Sergeant  Allison  with  two  of  the  prisoners,  whom 
he  had  captured  near  Denver.  I  changed  horses  and  ordered  him 
to  take  his  time  and  go  on  to  Fort  Wallace  with  the  prisoners, 
while  I  would  go  forward  and  try  to  capture  the  other  deserter. 

Benham  Station,  C.  T.,  September  20,1866. 
After  getting  a  cup  of  coffee  last  night  I  started  and  have  just 
ridden  ninety  miles.  As  I  am  obliged  to  return  to  Fort  Wallace 
and  all  my  horses  have  given  out,  I  told  the  station-Keeper  to  let 
me  have  four  fresh  horses  out  of  his  stable,  leaving  him  my  five 
worn-out  ones.  Then  I  sent  the  corporal  and  his  three  men  on 
towards  Denver  by  order  of  Lieutenant  Flood  with  orders  to  lose 
no  time  and  spare  no  expense  to  capture  the  deserter. 

Fort  Wallace,  Kan.,  September  21,  1866. 

When  the  stage  arrived  at  the  station  last  night,  and  while  the 
horses  were  being  changed,  a  rough-looking  man  came  into  the 


175 

room  where  I  was  waiting  and  wanted  to  know  if  I  knew  any- 
thing about  the  stage  horses  being  taken.  I  seemed  surprised 
when  he  began  to  curse  and  threaten  me.  I  put  my  hand  on  my 
revolver  to  use  it  in  case  he  made  an  atempt  to  draw  his,  and  as 
he  had  ten  or  fifteen  stock-tenders  around  him  who  could  cut  me 
into  mincemeat  at  a  word  from  this  bully  who  was  so  rough  to 
me,  1  concluded  not  to  make  the  first  motion  to  shoot.  The 
stage  being  announced,  I  started  to  get  inside,  when  I  was  or- 
dered not  to  try  it,  but  \vas  soon  on  top  with  the  driver,  who  at 
once  demanded  my  fare,  which  I  paid.  After  riding  several  miles 
I  asked  him  who  that  rough  man  was,  and  was  informed  that  his 
name  was  Benham,  the  general  superintendent  of  the  overland 
mail  route;  that  he  was  considered  one  of  the  most  dangerous 
men  West;  that  he  had  killed  several  men,  and  thought  no  more 
of  knocking  one  of  his  stock-tenders  down  or  shooting  him  than 
if  he  were  a  dog.  After  riding  a  few  hours  in  the  snowstorm  one 
of  the  passengers  inside  of  the  stage  changed  places  with  me,  and 
I  had  a  nap.  At  Cheyenne  Mills  at  four  o'clock  this  morning,  dis- 
covering one  of  my  sergeants  with  his  men  returning  from  Fort 
Lyon  I  got  out  of.  the  stage  and  ordered  one  of  the. best  horses 
saddled  and  started  for  this  post,  which  I  reached  by  ten  o'clock, 
riding  fifty  miles  in  less  than  six  hours.  I  reported  the  facts  of  my 
treatment  to  the  post  commander,  Lieutenant  Flood,  who  said  he 
could  not  and  dare  not  try  to  do  anything  about  the  matter,  but 
he  would  go  on  a  buffalo  hunt  for  two  days  and  leave  me  in  com- 
mand of  the  post  and  I  might  do  what  I  saw  fit.  After  he  left  I 
ordered  fifteen  of  the  best  and  most  trustworthy  men  I  had  to 
report  to  me  mounted,  armed  with  their  carbines  and  revolvers, 
knowing  that  Benham  was  a  dangerous  man  and  that  he  had  eight 
of  his  own  men  in  the  stage  \vho  were  good  shots  and  would  fight 
as  long  as  breath  lasted.  I  felt  that  I  would  have  some  hard  work 
to  get  possession  of  Mr.  Benham,  but  I  made  up  my  mind  that  I 
would  have  him  or  there  would  be  someone  hurt,  and  when  the 
stage  wras  near  the  post  I  met  him  with  my  fifteen  men  and  gave 
orders  to  the  driver  to  halt,  and  when  he  saw  sixteen  determined 
men  armed  he  halted  his  stage,  when  Mr.  Benham  looked  out  and 
ordered  him  to  drive  on.  I  then  drew  my  pistol  on  Mr.  Benham 
and  ordered  him  to  hold  up  his  hands,  while  the  sergeant  disarmed 
him  and  marched  him  to  the  post,  wdiere  I  put  him  in  irons  and  in 
the  guardhouse,  ordering  the  driver  to  go  on  with  the  mail  and 


1 76 


Arresting  Benham. 

his  passengers.  The  driver  seemed  delighted  to  see  me  make 
Mr.  Benham  submissive,  saying  it  was  the  first  time  he  had  ever 
heard  of  anyone  doing  so,  as  he  was  one  of  the  worst  men  in  the 
West.  After  Mr.  Benham  had  been  in  the  guardhouse  for  a  short 
time  he  sent  word  for  permission  to  see  the  commanding  officer 
of  the  post.  I  sent  word  that  the  sergeant  of  the  guard  might 
bring  him  to  my  office.  He  seemed  surprised  when  he  discovered 
that  I  was  the  commanding  officer,  and  at  once  stated  that  he  had 
a  great  deal  of  business  on  hand  and  that  my  detaining  him  at  this 
post  would  delay  and  greatly  interfere  with  his  re-stocking  the 
road ;  that  he  hoped  I  would  release  him  ;  that  he  had  been  hasty 
in  temper ;  that  after  thinking  th  •  matter  over  he  saw  that  T  was 
right,  and  that  the  taking  of  the  horses  did  not  interfere  with  the 
stopping  of  the  mail  in  the  least ;  that  the  horses  the  stock-tenders 
let  me  have  were  extra  horses,  etc.  I  asked  him  if  he  were  willing 
to  put  that  fact  in  writing,  and  he  sat  down  at  my  desk  and  wrote 
the  following: 

Fort  Wallace,  Kan.,  September  22,  1866. 

I  certify,  on  honor,  that  the  United  States  mail  was  in  no  way 
interfered  with  or  stopped  by  Second  Lieut.  Geo.  A.  Amies,  Sec- 


177 

ond  United  States  Cavalry,  taking  the  four  horses  and  pursuing 
the  deserters  from  Company  M,  Second  United  States  Cavalry, 
on  the  2  ist  inst. 

(Signed)     A.  BENHAM, 

Supt.  Mail  &  Express  Co. 
Witness  to  signature: 

J.  S.  MILLS. 


After  an  apology  in  the  most  humble  terms  in  the  presence  of 
witnesses  and  handing  me  the  above  paper  I  ordered  his  release 
and  invited  him  to  lunch  with  me,  which  he  accepted,  and  after 
lunch  he  ordered  an  extra  team  and  bade  us  all  good-bye  and 
started  off  in  his  buggy  toward  Fort  Ellsworth. 


September  23,  1866. 

The  stage  drove  up  to  my  headquarters  this  morning,  when 
Governor  Gilpin  of  Colorado  Territory  and  several  of  his  friends 
got  out.  After  showing  them  about  the  post  I  invited  them  to  a 
good  lunch.  The  Governor  reminded  me  that  he  was  a  graduate 
of  West  Point  and  was  a  Second  Lieutenant  in  my  regiment  at 
one  time.  Before  leaving  he  gave  me  a  pressing  invitation  to  visit 
him  at  Denver.  He  is  a  very  interesting  talker,  and  has  seen  a 
great  deal  of  Western  life.  Lieutenant  Flood,  Dr.  Turner,  Mr. 
Warner  and  Comstock  returned  this  evening  from  the  buffalo 
bunt. 

Shawnee  Creek,  Kan.,  September  26,  1866. 

Having  received  orders  to  proceed  without  delay  to  Fort  Sedg- 
wick,  I  at  once  packed  up,  transferred  my  property  and,  after 
bidding  my  friends  good-bye,  marched  out  of  the  post  with  a  hun- 
dred cavalry  and  fifteen  six-mul  teams. 

1  was  entertained  most  of  last  night  by  Captain  Scott,  the  sutler. 
As  I  was  allowed  to  use  my  own  discretion  as  to  marching  across 
the  country  or  going  around  by  way  of  Denver,  I  concluded  to 
run  the  risk  of  cutting  across  a  country  no  white  man  has  ever 
been  over,  and  with  the  aid  of  my  compass  and  map  I  expect  to 
come  out  all  right  if  not  attacked  by  the  Indians.  The  last  mail 
just  brought  me  the  following  letter  from  Lieutenant  Bates : 


i78 

Denver  City,  C.  T.,  September  23,  1866. 
Lieut.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 

Fort  Wallace,  Kan. : 

Lieutenant — Mr.  Street,  the  General  Superintendent  of  the  H. 
O.  M.  &  Express  Co.,  has  just  called  upon  me  in  regard  to  a  mat- 
ter of  difficulty  between  you  and  Mr.  Benham,  one  of  their  agents. 
From  his  account  and  from  some  of  your  men  who  reported  here, 
and  whom  I  have  sent  down  the  Platte,  I  understand  that  while 
in  the  pursuit  of  deserters  you  took  the  responsibility  of  seizing 
certain  of  the  stage  horses  to  continue  the  pursuit,  and  that  since 
then,  owing  to  some  altercation  between  you  and  Mr.  Benham, 
you  have  seized  him  and  put  him  under  guard. 

Fearing  that  you  have  seriously  overstepped  your  powers  in 
this  matter,  I  take  the  liberty  of  writing  this  letter  of  advice.  In 
the  first  place,  I  think  you  were  entirely  wrong  in  your  first  action, 
namely,  in  taking  the  stage  stock.  You  should  remember  that 
your  jurisdiction  does  not  extend  beyond  the  limits  of  the  Gov- 
ernment reservation,  save  in  cases  of  actual  hostilities  and  great 
emergencies,  when  you  might  be  supported  in  disregarding  the 
interests  of  everything  save  that  of  the  service;  but  the  pursuit  of 
a  deserter  can  hardly  be  called  such  an  emergency.  Again,  you 
know  the  Government  and  laws  make  a  decided  difference  be- 
tween individuals  and  the  agents  and  employes  of  companies  who 
are  employed  in  carrying  the  Government  mails;  for  instance, 
they  are  exempt  from  arrest  in  all  cases  while  engaged  in  carrying 
the  mails,  except  when  for  great  civil  crimes,  and  even  then  the 
evidence  must  be  plain  and  conclusive. 

If  Mr.  Benham  came  to  your  post,  and  was  disrespectful  to  you, 
your  authority  extended  to  putting  him  off  from  the  reservation 
and  prohibiting  his  return,  and  that  was  the  extent  of  your  author- 
ity, unless  you  can  show  conclusively  that  he  was  interfering  with 
your  military  authority  in  such  a  manner  as  to  make  his  arrest  a 
necessity,  which  could  be  overcome  in  no  other  manner. 

Mr.  Street  has  telegraphed  to  General  Hancock,  at  St.  Louis, 
an  order  for  Mr.  Benham's  immediate  release,  and  unless  you  are 
more  than  sure  that  you  are  right,  as,  for  instance,  supposing  the 
agent  had  made  some  personal  assault,  I  would  advise  you  to  re- 
lease him  immediately.  Remember  that  this  man  is  but  the  rep- 
resentative of  a  large  and  responsible  company,  who  will  not  only 
be  as  much  bound  to  punish  their  agents  when  they  are  wrong  as 
to  protect  them  if  right,  and  except  in  a  very  few  and  exceptional 
cases,  such  as  I  have  already  supposed,  your  right  method  of  pro- 
cedure is  to  report  the  facts  fully  to  the  employers,  and  to  demand 
from  them  the  punishment  of  their  employes  if  wrong. 

I  have  as  yet  received  no  orders,  and  may  be  here  for  some  time 
for  aught  I  know.  Please;  write  me  fully  in  regard  to  this  matter, 


179 

for  I  am  anxious  to  know  what  kind  of  a  scrape  you  have  got  your- 
self into. 

Respects  to  Pills  and  the  rest. 

I  am,  etc., 

A.  E.  BATES, 

First  Lieut.  Second  U.  S.  Cav.,  R.  Q.  M. 

If  I  have  any  mail  there,  please  send  it  up  without  delay.  Have 
you  sent  up  any?  I  have  not  heard  a  word  from  anyone.  Use 
Holiday's  franked  envelopes. 

To  sustain  me  in  taking  possession  of  the  stage  horses  I  submit 
the  following  order,  which  Lieutenant  Bates  did  not  seem  to  be 
aware  that  I  had  received : 

Headquarters  Post, 

Fort  Wallace,  Kans.,  September  17,  1866. 
Special  Order  No.  75. 

Second  Lieut.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  Second  U.  S.  Cavalry,  will  pro- 
ceed at  once,  with  Corporal  Gorman  and  three  (3)  privates  of  Com- 
pany "M,"  Second  U.  S.  Cavalry,  in  the  direction  of  Denver,  C.  T., 
in  pursuit  of  three  (3)  deserters  from  Company  "M,"  Second  U.  S. 
Cavalry,  using  every  effort  in  his  power  to  overtake  and  capture 
them.  In  case  Lieutenant  Armes,  horses  give  out,  he  will  (if  hav- 
ing any  knowledge  of  the  deserters)  take  any  horses  he  can  find, 
provided  it  in  no  way  interferes  with  the  regular  running  of  the 
H.  O.  M.  &  Express  Co.  Lieutenant  Armes  will  return  by  coach 
to  this  post  if  his  horse  gives  out. 

C.  E.  FLOOD, 
First  Lieut.  Sixth  U.  S.  Vol.  Inf., 

Commanding  Post. 

Sinking  Water,  September  27,  1866. 

Just  before  reaching  camp  this  evening  I  marched  into  a  herd 
of  buffalo  which  seemed  almost  as  tame  as  cattle.  The  prairie 
seemed  black  with  them  for  miles.  I  ordered  the  first  sergeant  to 
bring  me  thirty-five  mounted  men,  and  gave  orders  lor  each  man 
to  kill  his  buffalo.  I  killed  two  at  three  shots,  and  my  men  killed 
sixteen,  and  we  have  had  a  lively  time  getting  four  of  them 
skinned,  and  I  expect  to  tan  the  hides  into  robes.  Sergeant  Miller 
shot  his  horse  through  the  head  during  the  excitement,  and  six  or 
eight  of  the  horses  fell,  and  some  ran  away  with  their  riders.  All 
together  we  had  a  very  exciting  time.  It  took  me  at  least  half 
an  hour  to  assemble  the  men  after  the  charge  was  made.  Having 
marched  all  day  since  sunrise,  and  men  and  horses  being  very 


i8o 

tired,  I  omitted  the  form  of  a  roll  call  and  let  the  men  build  large 
fires  and  enjoy  buffalo  meat,  which  they  are  broiling  over  the  fire 
on  sticks.  I  do  not  believe  I  ever  saw  a  more  happy  and  con- 
tented set  than  these  appear  to  be.  We  have  just  loaded  four 
wagons  with  buffalo  meat. 

Camp  Hancock,  at  the  North  and  South  Forks  of  the 

Republican  River,  Nebraska,  September  29,  1866. 
Since  we  came  in  camp  this  evening  signs  of  Indians  have  been 
discovered,  causing  me  to  double  the  guard.  The  spot  is  a  lovely 
place  for  a  camp,  plenty  of  fish,  ducks  and  game.  I  have  con- 
cluded to  remain  here  two  days  and  give  the  men  a  good  rest. 
Had  a  close  inspection  and  read  a  few  articles  of  war  to  the  men, 
warning  them  of  the  punishment  in  store  for  any  neglect  of  duty. 


Camp  Hancock,  C.  T.,  September  30,  1866. 
Having  named  this  camp  after  one  of  the  best  friends  I  have  in 
the  Army,  General  Hancock,  the  name  alone  is  enough  to  make 
every  true  soldier  be  fully  contented.  As  we  will  have  about  sixty 
miles  to  march  tomorrow  without  finding  water,  I  have  ordered 
all  the  kegs,  canteens  and  barrels  filled  from  the  spring  where  we 
are  now  camped.  I  have  just  given  orders  to  break  camp  at  three 
o'clock  tomorrow  morning. 


Armes'  Spring  C.  T.,  October  2,  1866. 

We  had  a  long  and  tiresome  march  all  day.  When  we  halted 
to  go  into  camp  this  evening  most  of  us  made  up  our  minds  we 
could  not  have  any  water,  but  finding  a  low,  damp-looking  place, 
I  ordered  two  men  to  dig,  and  within  two  feet  found  plenty  of  cool, 
clear  water,  which  is  a  great  treat.  All  the  water  we  had  in  kegs, 
etc.,  had  been  used  up.  Having  marched  about  twenty  miles 
through  the  deep,  dry  sand,  men  as  well  as  animals  are  com- 
pletely tired  out,  and  the  good  water  we  have  found  we  consider 
a  godsend.  \Ye  also  have  plenty  of  grass,  antelope,  ducks  and 
buffalo  meat  in  abundance.  The  first  sergeant  has  requested  me 
to  let  him  put  the  remarks  on  the  morning  report  book  and  on  the 
roster,  our  camp,  under  the  name  of  Armes'  Spring,  which  I  con- 
sented to. 


Collins  Ranch,  Platte  River,  C.  T.,  October  3,  1866. 

We  left  Armes'  Spring  last  night  at  seven  o'clock,  after  building 
a  fire  on  top  of  a  hill  to  use  as  a  signal  or  guide  to  take  our  course 
from,  forming  the  company  in  single  file  and  sending  one  man  in 
advance  with  a  lantern  and  compass.  We  took  a  northwest  course, 
and  marched  until  eleven  at  night,  when  we  halted  to  rest  until 
one  this  morning,  when  we  built  another  fire  and  marched  until 
eight  o'clock  this  forenoon  without  a  halt,  rested  one-half  hour  for 
breakfast  and  marched  until  one  this  afternoon,  halted  for  one 
hour  for  rest  and  lunch,  and  reached  this  camp  and  river  at  six  this 
afternoon.  After  a  march  of  sixty  miles  since  seven  last  night 
without  water,  except  what  we  had  in  kegs,  men  and  animals  are 
looking  well,  but  tired.  We  made  a  splendid  trail  all  the  way  from 
Fort  Wallace,  Kan.,  which  can  be  used  hereafter  as  a  road,  almost 
two  hundred  miles.  I  feel  rather  proud  of  the  fact  that  I  have 
come  through  such  a  wild  country  without  the  loss  of  a  man,  an- 
imal, assistance  of  a  guide  or  anyone  who  had  ever  been  through 
this  country  before.  The  men  are  now  enjoying  a  swim,  and  will 
start  for  the  post  tomorrow  morning,  which  is  only  ten  miles 
above  on  the  river. 

Fort  Sedgwick,  C.  T.,  October  4,  1866. 

Most  all  the  men  had  a  good  bath  in  the  Platte  river  again  this 
morning,  and  they  looked  splendid  in  their  new  full-dress  uni- 
forms, which  I  ordered  the  company  to  appear  in  at  inspection 
just  before  marching  into  the  post,  which  I  reached  at  one  o'clock, 
reporting  to  Capt.  James  P.  W.  Neil,  Eighteenth  Infantry,  who  , 
ordered  me  to  go  into  camp  until  such  time  as  the  barracks  are 
completed.  I  have  plenty  of  tents  and  have  made  a  splendid  camp. 

October  6,  1866. 

Yesterday  I  was  mostly  engaged  in  making  my  reports  to  the 
Department  Commander,  giving  the  details  of  the  march  and  de- 
scription of  the  country.  Lieut.  W.  F.  Halleck,  the  Post  Adju- 
tant, proposed  that  we  should  start  an  officers'  mess,  which  I 
agreed  to,  and  got  our  first  dinner  ready  in  time  for  Lie'utenant 
Bates,  who  just  arrived  from  Denver,  and  is  my  guest  while  here. 
Captain  Neil  ordered  thirty  of  my  men  to  go  to  work  on  the  new 
barracks,  and  they  have  been  putting  shingles  on  the  roof  most 
of  the  day.  I  drew  enough  stores  today  to  give  every  man  a  com- 


182 

plete  outfit,  and  at  inspection  the  company  looked  splendid.    Cap- 
tain Neil  has  ordered  us  to  be  under  arms  at  all  roll  calls. 

October  9,  1866. 

Captain  Neil  has  ordered  Lieutenant  Halleck  and  me  to  go  on 
duty  every  other  day  as  Officer  of  the  Day,  and  as  I  have  to  drill, 
overlook  the  work  of  building  the  barracks,  make  the  rounds  after 
twelve  o'clock  at  night,  go  on  boards  of  survey,  command  the 
company,  etc.,  I  am  kept  very  busy.  My  barracks  were  com- 
pleted today,  and  I  moved  the  company  into  them  at  four  o'clock 
this  afternoon.  Lieutenant  Bates,  Dr.  Latham,  the  Post  Surgeon, 
and  I  visited  Julesburg,  four  miles  east  of  the  post,  the  only  little 
town  within  two  hundred  miles  of  the  post.  Lieutenant  Bates  in- 
troduced me  to  Gen.  B.  H.  Hughes  of  Denver,  and  then  started 
a  game  of  billiards  with  Colonels  Webster  and  Wyutt.  The  game 
was  so  interesting  that  I  concluded  that  my  friends  were  booked 
for  the  evening,  so  I  returned  to  the  post  to  attend  to  my  com- 
pany duties. 

Indians  are  getting  troublesome.  I  improve  all  the  time  pos- 
sible in  drilling  my  men,  jumping  the  horses  over  ditches,  etc. 

I  have  adopted  a  new  drill  of  my  own  for  Indian  fighting  that 
has  not  appeared  in  the  tactics  which  will  be  very  important  if  we 
are  surrounded  on  the  plains  by  the  Indians.  Captain  Norwood, 
commanding  K  Troop  of  the  regiment,  arrived  with  eighty  men 
this  morning.  Only  fifty-five  were  mounted.  I  find  the  Captain 
to  be  a  gentleman  of  the  old-fashioned  Southern  style,  and  have 
invited  him  in  our  mess.  He  is  from  Baltimore,  Md.  My  com- 
manding officer  is  a  very  pleasant  man  to  converse  with  when 
sober,  but  I  have  not  seen  him  often.  He  has  been  on  a  spree  for 
some  months,  I  am  told,  and  is  likely  to  keep  it  up  for  some  time. 
Lieutenant  Bates  arrived  today  from  Laramie,  and  is  on  his  way 
to  Denver  after  lumber  for  the  new  post.  He  is  my  guest. 

October  20,  1866. 

Mr.  Shepherd  arrived  today  with  a  lot  of  horses  for  the  regi- 
ment, and,  taking  rather  a  fancy  to  me,  gave  me  a  hint  that  I 
might  pick  out  some  for  my  troop,  so  I  drew  fifteen  good  one? 
and  exchanged  others  so  as  to  have  all  bays,  and  I  can  boast  to- 
night of  having  one  hundred  of  the  best  horses  in  the  service. 


October  21,  1866, 

Capt.  John  Mix  and  his  wife  arrived  today,  and  Col.  John 
Green  with  four  companies  of  the  Second  Cavalry,  commanded 
by  Lieutenant  Gregg,  Lieutenant  Norton  and  Lieutenant  Wand- 
less.  Capt.  Henry  B.  Freeman  and  wife  and  Captain  Arnold  of 
the  Eighteenth  Infantry  also  came  today. 

October  22,  1866. 

I  gave  up  my  quarters  to  Captain  Mix  and  wife  last  night.  The 
Captain  assumed  command  of  the  company  this  morning,  but  T 
wil  not  have  to  turn  over  the  property  until  the  ist  of  November. 

North  Platte  River,  D.  T.,  October  23,  1866. 

Just  as  I  retired,  about  I  o'clock  this  morning,  news  came 
into  the  post  that  Carlisle's  large  train  of  mules  had  been  captured 
by  the  Indians  and  some  emigrants  who  were  traveling  with  his 
train  had  been  murdered,  several  women  and  children  scalped, 
and  that  the  Indians  had  gone  northwest  with  the  stock.  Colonel 
Neil,  the  Post  Commander,  at  once  ordered  Captain  Norwood 
after  the  Indians  with  his  full  company  of  cavalry.  He  was 
mounted  and  off  with  his  men  in  one-half  hour  from  the  time  he 
received  the  orders.  Thinking  perhaps  I  might  be  needed,  I  told 
my  first  sergeant  to  notify  the  men  to  be  ready  to  mount  in  five 
minutes  if  an  order  should  require  us  to  go  to  the  assistance  of 
Captain  Norwood. 

Within  two  hours  after  Captain  Norwood  left  an  orderly  re- 
turned with  a  request  from  the  Captain  for  more  men ;  that  he 
had  discovered  a  large  trail  of  Indians  going  in  a  northwest 
course.  I  was  ordered  to  report  to  him  at  once,  and  within  ten 
minutes  wras  on  the  move  with  one  hundred  as  good  soldiers  as  I 
ever  saw  mounted.  Instead  of  going  down  the  South  Platte  to 
the  place  where  the  Indians  had  crossed  I  forded  the  river  near 
the  post  and  then  took  a  northeast  course,  hoping  to  strike  the 
trail  ahead  of  Captain  Norwood  and  pursue  the  Indians  inde- 
pendent of  him,  but  just  as  the  sun  was  pushing  out  of  the  clouds 
my  advance  guard  discovered  one  of  his  flankers,  and  all  I  could 
do  then  was  to  report,  which  I  did  with  a  salute,  and  was  ordered 
to  march  my  troop  in  the  rear  of  his.  After  slowly  marching  fif- 
teen or  twenty  miles  I  rode  to  the  head  of  the  command  and  in- 
formed Captain  Norwood  that  if  we  did  not  go  faster  it  would 
be  impossible  to  overtake  the  Indians.  He  remarked  that  he  did 


1 84 


Reporting  to  Norwood. 

not  intend  to  push  his  horses  up  by  overmarching  them,  and  con- 
tinued in  his  slow  pace  until  we  reached  the  North  Platte  river, 
just  as  the  sun  was  setting,  when  he  looked  at  the  muddy  waters 
and  then  at  the  sun,  and  said,  "Well,  we  might  as  well  return  to 
the  post,  as  it  was  a  very  dangerous  undertaking  to  cross  the  river 
at  that  place,  and,  further,  there  were  too  many  Indians  on  the 
other  side  for  us  to  handle  with  two  companies  of  cavalry."  I  re- 
minded him  that  it  was  our  duty  to  try  and  overtake  the  Indians 
and  punish  them ;  that  every  time  they  committed  depredations, 
murdered  people  in  the  way  they  were  doing,  for  our  troops  to  fol- 
low them  a  short  distance  and  then  give  up  the  chase  only  en- 
couraged the  Indians  to  be  more  daring  and  make  them  feel  that 
no  matter  what  they  did  they  would  escape  punishment.  After 
being  satisfied  that  nothing  I  could  say  would  induce  Captain 
Norwood  to  go  forward  I  asked  my  first  sergeant,  Miller,  if  he 
thought  all  the  men  would  follow  me  and  do  their  duty  as  soldiers. 
He  said,  "Every  man  will  follow  on,  sir,  and  fight  for  and  with 
you  as  long  as  breath  is  in  their  body,  sir."  I  then  reported  to 
Captain  Norwood  my  intention  to  go  forward  and  try  to  punish 
the  Indians,  and  that  if  he  would  not  go  in  command  that  I  would 
take  my  troop  and  surprise  the  Indians  and  punish  them  if  pos- 
sible. He  objected  to  my  leaving  his  command,  and  threatened 
to  prefer  charges  if  I  did.  There  being  no  time  to  parley,  I  or- 


185 

dered  my  men  forward  and  jumped  my  large  bay,  horse  off  the 
bank  into  the  river,  reaching  the  other  side  safely,  and  watched 
the  rest  of  the  men  into  the  river,  some  of  the  horses  plunging 
through  the  quicksand.  A  few  of  the  men  were  off  their  horses 
entirely,  holding  on  to  the  saddles  or  the  horses'  tails,  but  they  all 
got  over  safely,  fixed  up  the  saddles,  mounted  and  started  on  the 
trail  up  Pumpkin  creek,  a  stream  that  empties  into  the  North 
Flatte  river.  Looking  back  over  the  river,  they  could  see  Cap- 
tain Norwood  and  his  company  slowly  marching  back  to  the  post. 
By  9  o'clock  in  the  evening  my  advanced  scout  discovered  a  little 
fire  and  reported  to  me.  Ordering  all  the  men  to  dismount,  I 
took  the  scout  and  Sergeant  Miller  and  advanced  cautiously,  and 
soon  discovered  some  roast  buffalo  meat  over  the  fire.  After  be- 


Crossing  Platte  River. 

ing  satisfied  the  Indians  had  all  gone,  the  men  helped  themselves 
to  the  roasted  meat,  which  was  the  first  mouthful  they  had  eaten 
for  twenty-six  hours.  After  the  men  had  all  they  wanted,  we 
marched  on,  and  soon  the  sergeant  of  the  rear  guard  reported  to 
me  that  Private  Smith's  horse  had  given  out.  I  ordered  him  to 
see  that  he  was  started  back  towards  the  post,  and  to  head  his 
horse  to  the  Platte  river,  and  remain  there  until  daybreak  in  the 
morning,  and  if  I  was  not  there,  to  mount  and  cross  the  river  and 
make  his  way  into  the  post  the  best  way  he  could,  and  to  give 
each  man  whose  .horse  gave  out  the  same  instructions.  By  half- 
past  1 1  tonight  my  scout  reported  being  near  a  large  village ; 
that  a  narrow  path  passed  between  two  high  peaks,  and  beyond 
in  the  large  valley  were  the  Indians  and  all  their  animals.  I 


i86 

counted  my  men,  and  had  only  twenty-five  left  to  do  the  work  in 
store  for  them,  the  rest  having  been  sent  back  to  the  river  on  ac- 
count of  their  horses  giving  out.  My  first  impulse  was  to  start 
back,  when  the  thought  occurred  that  before  I  could  reach'  the 
post  I  would  be  surrounded  and  murdered  by  the  Indians,  and 
that  it  would  be  better  to  risk  surprising  them  while  asleep  than 
to  run  the  risk  of  retreating.  So  I  selected  eight  men  of  the 
twenty-five  to  hold  the  horses,  and  divided  the  other  seventeen 
into  detachments,  placing  a  non-commissioned  officer  in  charge 
of  each,  instructed  that  as  soon  as  the  charge  was  made  to  enter 


GREATEST  CAVALRY  FEAT  ON  RECORD. 

the  tepees  and  gather  up  the  arms  and  equipments  which  he  could 
find,  another  sergeant  to  take  charge  of  all  the  stock,  and  start 
them  towards  the  post,  and  send  two  of  his  men  on  the  best 
horses  or  ponies  he  could  catch  and  start  them  to  the  Platte  river, 
with  instructions  for  the  men  there  to  remain  until  we  arrived. 

We  quietly  advanced  to  the  upper  end  of  the  village,  and  dis- 
covered two  old  squaws  on  guard,  sitting  over  a  little  fire  in  a  hole 
in  the  ground.  Just  as  they  started  the  alarm,  I  ordered  the 
charge,  firing  our  carbines  and  revolvers  into  the  tepees,  Green 


I87 

making  the  mountains  ring  with  the  blast  of  his  bugle,  starting 
the  animals  through  the  village. 

The  Indians  were  all  in  a  state  of  confusion,  and  ran  out  of  their 
tepees  into  the  underbrush,  leaving  most  of  their  clothes,  arms 
and  equipments,  which  were  gathered  up  by  Sergeant  Kane  and 
his  men  and  loaded  on  the  old  pack  mules.  There  being  several 
hundred  Indians  to  contend  against,  I  made  all  possible  haste  to 


RETURN  TO  FORT  SEDGWICK. 

get  out,  and  caught  up  enough  fresh  horses,  ponies  and  mules  to 
remount  my  men,  and  turned  my  horses  in  with  the  captured 
stock,  and  drove  all  to  the  North  Platte,  where  I  found  the  rest 
of  the  company  waiting. 

They  assisted  in  getting  all  the  stock  over  the  river,  and  when 
within  forty  miles  of  the  post  Captain  Norwood  met  me  with  his 


i88 

company  and  some  infantry  in  escort  wagons,  which  had  been 
hurried  forward  to  my  assistance.  Captain  Norwood  congratu- 
lated me,  saying  he  would  not  forward  the  charges  he  had  been 
preparing,  as  long^as  I  had  been  so  successful.  After  waiting  for 
an  hour,  and  enjoying  a  good  breakfast  of  bacon,  hard  bread  and 
coffee,  Sergeant  Miller  had  one  of  the  ponies  saddled  up  and  dec- 
orated with  all  the  Indian  chief's  regalia,  and  requested  me  to  ride 
him  to  the  post,  and  as  I  did  so,  hundreds  of  the  people  came 
from  all  the  country  about  to  congratulate  me  and  thank  me  for 
the  way  I  had  punished  the  Indians.  Only  seven  men  and  thir- 
teen of  the  horses  out  of  the  twenty-five  were  wounded,  and  I 
brought  them  all  safe  into  the  post,  with  300  head  of  cattle,  200 
mules,  a  large  number  of  Indian  ponies  and  horses,  buffalo  robes, 
bows  and  quivers,  rifles,  pistols,  pipe  shields,  war  bonnets  and 
one  lance,  with  the  scalp  locks  from  thirteen  persons,  including 
the  locks  of  two  little  girls'  scalps,  who  no  doubt  had  been  mur- 
dered, mutilated  and  scalped.  The  Indians  were  so  suddenly 
surprised  that  they  did  not  have  time  to  gather  up  anything  in 
their  flight,  and  before  they  could  return  to  their  tepees  my  men 
had  gathered  most  of  their  weapons.  Had  the  Indians  known  at 
the  time  the  strength  of  my  command,  not  one  of  us  would  have 
been  left  to  tell  the  tale.  I  was  fortunate  myself  in  not  getting 
worse  hurt,  as  one  bullet  went  through  my  hat,  grazing  my  head 
and  slightly  stunning  me,  and  one  struck  my  canteen,  one  my 
saber  hilt,  and  one  made  a  slight  flesh  wound  in  my  side.  Three 
of  my  men  are  very  badly  wounded,  and  Dr.  Latham  says  he  will 
have  to  amputate  the  arm  at  the  shoulder  of  one  of  them,  as  the 
head  of  the  arrow  is  driven  into  the  bone  so  far  it  will  be  impos- 
sible to  get  it  out.  I  am  very  proud  of  the  fact  that  I  got  all  of 
my  men  back  and  arrived  safely  at  the  post,  and  in  spite  of  my 
being  tired  out,  the  congratulations  of  so  many  people,  some  of 
whom  have  come  many  miles  to  see  me,  makes  me  feel  as  if  I  were 
a  man  of  great  importance  in  this  part  of  the  country,  as  they 
claim  that  it  is  the  first  time  the  Indians  have  been  punished  for 
years. 

Fort  Sedo-wick,  C.  T.,  October  24,  1866. 

My  plans  were  carried  out  like  clockwork,  and  every  man  did 
his  duty  faithfully  and  as  intelligently  as  if  he  had  been  especially 
trained  for  that  kind  of  work.  It  was  about  12  o'clock  last  nicrht 


189 

when  we  advanced  to  the  edge  of  the  village,  where  all  were  as 
still  as  death  but  the  tingle  of  the  bells  on  the  ponies,  which  were 
grazing  with  the  cattle,  horses  and  mules. 

October  27,  1866. 

During  my  scout  Colonel  Green  left,  with  his  command,  for 
Fort  Laramie.  News  came  in  this  morning  that  the  Indians  are 
committing  depredations  all  over  the  country.  Captain  Neill  sent 
Captain  Norwood  and  fifty  men  to  More's  Ranch  after  them.  I  ad- 
dressed my  report  of  the  scout  to  the  Assistant  Adjutant-General 
of  the  Department  of  the  Platte,  through  the  post  Adjutant,  but 
Colonel  Neill  returned  it,  with  orders  to  address  it  to  him.  I 
obeyed  his  order,  and  sent  one  copy  direct  to  headquarters  over 
his  head,  explaining  my  reason  for  doing  so. 

I  must  call  attention  to  the  following  names  of  my  Company 
M,  who  supported  me  in  performing,  perhaps,  one  of  the  greatest 
cavalry  feats  ever  heretofore  recorded,  and  who  proved  them- 
selves by  their  acts  and  deeds  one  of  the  most  remarkable  com- 
panies of  soldiers  in  our  Army : 

ROLL  OF  COMPANY  "M,"  SECOND  U.  S.  CAVALRY. 
First  Sergeant  George  C.  Miller,  Sergeants  Henry  H.  Todd, 
Frank  H.  Allison,  Christian  Widman,  Thomas  Keane,  Daniel 
FitzPatrick,  Corporals  Robert  T.  Lyons,  George  Zimme'rman, 
Jeremiah  J.  Gosman,  Philander  Freeman,  Bugler  VVm.  Oster- 
hold,  Saddler  Edw.  Sanzonsi,  Farrier  Joshua  Hooker,  Privates 
Henry  Buch,  Joseph  Rucholtz,*  William  Beese,  Michael  Casper, 
Rodgers  Curry,  Maurice  W.  Curry,  Oscar  Close,  Andrew  F.  Car- 
rick,  Michael  Connell,  Martin  Cullen,  William  Carney,  Thomas 
Clark,  John  Castello,  John  C.  Caldwell,  Henry  Callow,  Thomas 
Connely,  John  F.  Donley,  John  Derlin,  John  C.  Davis,  John  W. 
Davis,  Michael  Delaney,  Henry  Donnan,  Peter  Dolan,  Jesse  E. 
Dewey,  Albion  H.  Brown,  George  Dimmick,  Henry  Desmar,  Vic- 
tor Dungan,  Robert  Dawson,  Alonze  Dufour,  Henry  Entriken, 
Charles  Erskine,  John  Ellis,  Francis  Edwards,  Albert  H.  Furnice, 
George  Fessenden,  Frank  B.  Flanders,  Joseph  Foster,  Henry 
Gordon,  William  Gibson,  Charles  Green,  Michael  Groman,  Wm. 
Garrison,  Michael  HofTnagle,  Wm.  J.  Humphreys,  Edw.  Homel, 
Wm.  Henicke,  Jacob  P.  Hischberges,  Chas.  H.  Haynes,  Patrick 
Hefron,  David  Hall,  Michael  Haley,  Almon  Hacket,  Jas.  Hand, 


190 

Edw.  Handford,  Rudey  Hertsman,  Gollieb  Kischner,  Daniel 
Keith,  Jno.  Kimmel,  Wm.  P.  Leakey,  Saml.  McCullom,  Jas.  S. 
Mills,  Bernard  Martin,  Barney  McKean,  Wm.  Moore,  Peter  Myer, 
Christian  Pagh,  Jno.  Sullivan,  Washington  Sutton,  Edmund 
Smith,  Henry  Stoffel,  Jno.  C.  Sergeant,  Charles  F.  Senior,  August 
Emil  Tetzner,  Chas.  Telton,  Michael  Van  Kennan,  Jno.  Williams, 
Albert  Wolfe. 

*On  November  17,  1899,  a  man  by  the  name  of  Burnside  handed 
:ne  the  following  memoranda,  saying  that  Mr.  Bucholtz  was  re- 
ceiving a  pension  of  only  $12,  he  having  been  disabled  in  a  march 
with  me  after  Indians  in  the  fall  of  1866.  On  looking  up  the  com- 
pany roster  I  find  that  he  was  one  of  the  men  that  was  with  me  in 
that  fight. 

October  28,  1866. 

It  was  my  turn  to  go  on  duty  as  Officer  of  the  Day,  but  Captain 
Mix  insisted  upon  taking  my  place,  on  account  of  my  being  so 
badly  used  up.  He  and  Colonel  Neill  had  a  lively  discussion  in 
regard  to  the  details  of  enlisted  men.  It  seems  that  Colonel  Neill 
used  the  men  from  both  troops  to  help  build  and  complete  the 
infantry  quarters,  and  now  he  requires  the  cavalry  to  build  them 
over,  and  will  not  let  any  of  the  infantry  help. 

Fort  Sedgwick,  C.  T.,  October  29,  1866. 
The  following  is  an  extract  from  my  report  sent  last  night : 

After  pursuing  the  Indians  ninety  miles,  I  surprised  them  in 
their  village,  located  on  a  small  stream  north  of  the  North  Platte. 
After  a  spirited  skirmish,  we  recaptured  the  stolen  stock  and  fifty- 
three  horses,  twenty-two  Indian  ponies,  175  mules  and  300  cattle, 
arms  and  camp  equipage  of  the  Indians.  After  setting  fire  to  the 
village,  and  fearing  an  attack  from  a  large  party  in  the  vicinity,  I 
hastened  to  this  post,  which  1  reached  at  5  P.  M.,  the  24th  inst., 
having  marched  at  least  170  miles  in  thirty-seven  hours.  My 
men  and  horses  started  without  their  breakfast,  and  had  nothing 
to  eat  until  their  return  this  side  of  the  North  Platte,  except  some 
buffalo  meat  found  abandoned  by  the  Indians  and  what  Captain 
Norwood  brought  when  he  came  to  my  assistance.  We  crossed 
the  North  and  South  Platte  rivers  twice  each,  and  our  wet  clothes 
were  soon  a  sheet  of  ice.  The  Indians  left  on  the  ground  four  of 
their  killed  and  seven  wounded.  Three  of  my  men  were  badly 
wounded,  and  thirteen  horses,  but  I  was  able  to  get  them  all  back 
to  the  post.  My  command  submitted  cheerfully  to  the  hardships 
of  the  march  and  behaved  beautifully  under  fire.  Had  my  men 


been  armed  with  more  revolvers  but  few  Indians  would  have  es- 
caped, for  we  effected  a  complete  surprise. 
Respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         G.  A.  ARMES, 
Second  Lieut.  Co.  M.,  Second  U.  S.  Cav. 
Through  Commanding  Officer  Co.  M,  Second  Cav. 

Headquarters  Company  M,  Second  U.  S.  Cavalry, 

Fort  Sedgwick,  C.  T.,  October  28,  1866. 

Respectfully  forwarded.  The  energy  displayed  by  Lieutenant 
Armes  in  following  the  trail,  under  very  discouraging  circum- 
stances, with  a  tired  and  hungry  command,  and  the  cheerful  sub- 
mission to  privations  and  hardships  by  the  whole  command,  are 
certainly  worthy  of  admiration.  The  within  case  seems  to  furnish 
conclusive  evidence  that  the  revolver  is  almost  indispensable  in 
our  Indian  warfare. 

(Signed)         JOHN  Mix, 

Capt.  Second  U.  S.  Cavalry, 

Commanding  Company. 

Captain  Norwood  returned  from  his  scout  this  evening,  but 
did  not  see  an  Indian. 

November  3,  1866. 

I  received  a  reprimand  from  Colonel  Neill  today  because  I  let 
the  sergeant  of  the  guard  take  some  hay  from  the  stock  for  the 
men  to  lie  on  in  the  mud  at  the  guard  tent.  He  claimed  I  should 
have  taken  the  hay  from  my  company,  being  Officer  of  the  Day, 
and  I  claimed  the  hay  should  not  come  from  the  company  allow- 
ance, but  from  the  Quartermaster.  As  the  Colonel  is  still  on  a 
drunk,  I  did  not  worry  over  the  reprimand. 

November  7,  1866. 

While  on  duty  as  Officer  of  the  Day  yesterday,  Private  Daly, 
Company  K,  burned  all  his  clothes  up,  thinking  it  would  be  an 
excuse  for  not  doing  fatigue  work,  but  I  had  him  taken  under 
guard  behind  the  stable,  where  he  dug  a  hole  three  feet  deep  and 
four  feet  wide,  and  when  it  was  completed  I  had  him  fill  it  up 
again,  and  after  he  had  dug  and  filled  it  up  three  times  he  begged 
off  from  further  punishment,  and  I  sent  Jiim  to  the  quartermaster- 
sergeant,  who  issued  him  a  new  suit  of  clothes ;  so  he  did  not 
make  much  by  his  singular  behavior.  General  Weitzel,  with  four 
companies  of  the  Eighteenth  Infantry,  arrived  today,  and  Lieu- 


192 

tenants  Fenton  and  Joshua  W.  Jacobs  (now  Captain  and  Quarter- 
master) are  my  guests. 

November  20,  1866. 

Corporal  Foster  returned  last  night  with  a  deserter  and  Cap- 
tain Mix's  horse.  Colonel  Neill  and  Captain  Mix  had  quite  a 
row.  A  ranchman  brought  a  load  of  potatoes  into  the  post  and 
Captain  Mix  bought  them.  Colonel  Neill  ordered  the  man  out  of 
camp,  and  would  not  let  him  deliver  the  potatoes.  Captain  Mix 
wanted  them,  and  told  me  to  take  the  company  wagon  and  go 
after  them.  Colonel  Neill  stopped  me,  and  would  not  let  me  go. 
I  then  hired  a  private  team  for  $4,  and  we  soon  had  the  potatoes 
in  the  stable.  Colonel  Neill  got  very  angry,  and  ordered  all  Cap- 
tain Mix's  men  from  the  carpenter  shop,  and  wrould  not  let  them 
take  the  furniture  and  chairs  they  were  repairing  or  anything  they 
had  taken  into  the  shop. 

November  21,  1866. 

A  large  party  of  Northern  Cheyennes  crossed  the  river  below 
the  post  yesterday,  going  south  on  a  hunting  expedition.  They 
have  forty  squaws  along  to  skin  the  buffaloes,  take  care  of  the 
stock  and  wait  on  the  Indian  warriors,  as  they  consider  it  beneath 
their  dignity  to  help  cut  up  or  take  the  hide  off  a  buffalo,  or  per- 
form any  manual  labor.  When  a  warrior  rides  up  and  kills  a  buf- 
falo, his  work  is  over,  and  he  will  jump  off  his  pony  and  lie  or  sit 
down  and  smoke,  letting  the  squaws  catch  the  pony  the  best  way 
they  can  and  unsaddle  and  care  for  him.  Post  Chaplain  Wright, 
U.  S.  A.,  from  Fort  Laramie,  arrived  today  on  his  way  to  Wash- 
ington. I  gave  him  a  large  number  of  Indian  trophies  to  present 
to  friends,  who  will  appreciate  them,  as  a  lance,  with  the  scalp- 
locks  of  fifteen  or  twenty  persons,  some  of  them  taken  from 
women  and  children,  who  were  afterwards  burned  and  tortured 
to  death  in  camp,  will  be  quite  a  curiosity,  as  well  as  the  shields, 
bows  and  quivers*  war  bonnets,  tobacco  pouches,  pipes,  etc. 
Johnny  Keller,  an  eld  friend  and  brother-in-law  to  Colonel  Camp, 
Quartermaster,  U.  S.  A.,  is  my  guest,  and  we  had  a  splendid 
horseback  ride  this  afternoon. 

November  24,  1866. 

Mr.  Keller  left  for  Fort  Laramie  yesterday.  Captain  Mix  had 
the  men  shoot  at  the  target,  TOO  yards,  with  the  new  Spencer  car- 
bines just  issued  to  the  company,  and  only  six  shots  struck  it. 


193 

November  25,  1866. 

While  exercising  my  horses,  as  usual,  and  training  my  men  to 
spring  on  and  off  as  the  horses  jumped  over  a  bar,  without  sad- 
dles, which  made  a  very  interesting  sight,  many  collected  around 
to  see  the  men  and  horses  go  through  these  exciting  exercises. 
Many  of  the  men  would  stand  up  on  their  horse's  bare  back  and 
ride  around  the  ring  at  a  gallop,  and  run,  in  many  instances,  and 
spring  on  and  off  their  horses  while  running  and  jumping  over 
the  bar.  In  fact,  I  never  saw  as  active  a  set  of  young  men  in  the 
Army  as  I  have  in  my  troop.  Although  the  drill  I  have  adopted 
is  not  in  the  tactics,  it  will  eventually  be  adopted  tn  exercising 
cavalrymen,  and  will  prove  of  great  advantage,  not  only  in  an  In- 
dian fight,  but  in  remounting  and  dismounting  while  in  pursuit 
of  an  enemy. 

Colonel  Neill  came  out,  with  his  orderly,  and  stood  watching 
the  maneuvers  for  some  time,  which  I  supposed  he  admired,  and 
I  felt  proud  to  see  my  men  and  horses  doing  so  well,  and  naturally 
supposed  that  he  was  pleased  with  my  new  tactics.  Suddenly  the 
orderly  reported  that  the  commanding  officer  wished  to  see  me 
at  once.  Complying  with  his  order  and  approaching,  I  saluted, 
and  was  immediately  ordered  to  my  quarters  in  close  arrest  (arrest 
No.  9).  I  felt  for  a  few  minutes  as  if  I  would  sink  into  the  ground, 
but  complied  with  the  order,  not  having  the  least  idea  why  so 
unjust  (as  I  thought)  an  order  should  be  given,  except  that  Colo- 
nel Neill  was  drunk  and  was  not  responsible  for  what  he  was 
doing. 

November  29,  1866. 

I  am  still  very  sick,  and  have  my  meals  sent  to  me,  but  I  man- 
aged to  obey  Captain  Neill's  order  and  report  to  him.  He  had 
nothing  of  importance  to  say,  being  drunk  as  usual.  I  made  an 
excuse  and  left.  Lieutenant  Halleck  and  Post  Adjutant  called 
upon  me  twice  today.  He  informed  me  that  Captains  Mix  and 
Neill  had  a  lively  spat,  and  that  charges  would  soon  be  preferred 
by  Captain  Mix,  my  company  commander. 


I94 

Headquarters  Fort  Sedgwick,  C.  T., 

November  30,  1866. 
Lieut.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 

sSecond  U.  S.  Cavalry: 

Sir — By  direction  of  the  commanding  officer  you  are  hereby 
released  from  arrest,  and  will  report  to  the  commanding  officer  of 
your  company  for  duty. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

WALTER  W.  HALLECK, 
Second  Lieut.  Eighteenth  U.  S.  Inf., 

Post  Adjt. 

LTpon  receipt  of  the  above  order,  releasing  me  from  arrest,  Col- 
onel Neill  reprimanded  me  for  adopting  a  drill  outside  of  the  tac- 
tics, and  cautioned  me  never  to  again  drill  regular  soldiers  as 
circus-riders  and  jumping  jacks.  But  at  this  date  (1899)  I  observe 
at  Fort  Myer  the  same  mode  of  tactics  in  the  riding-school  has 
been  adopted  by  Colonel  Gordon,  and  appeared  to  be  approved  by 
everyone  present,  officials  and  others ;  but  my  only  mistake  was 
that  I  was  over  thirty  years  ahead  of  the  time  when  I  advanced 
the  idea  of  drilling  regular  Army  soldiers  in  such  exercises. 

November  30,  1866. 

Colonel  Neill  ordered  the  command  out  on  inspection  at  10 
o'clock  this  A.  M.  Captain  Mix  was  sick,  and  I  took  command 
of  the  company,  sick  as  I  was.  Captain  Mix  preferred  charges 
against  Captain  Neill  this  afternoon  as  the  last  resort  on  account 
of  abuse. 

December  i,  1866. 

Gen.  I.  N.  Palmer  and  Lieutenant  Peale  arrived  at  2  o'clock 
this  afternoon  and  drove  to  my  tent,  as  they  did  not  care  to  call 
on  Colonel  Neill,  the  commanding  officer,  but  just  as  they  had 
accepted  my  invitation.  Colonel  Neill  came  in  and  insisted  so 
earnestly  they  should  stay  with  him  that  they  accepted.  Lieut. 
A.  H.  Bowman,  Twenty-seventh  Infantry,  who  is  with  General 
Palmer,  remained  as  my  guest,  but  Captain  and  Mrs.  Mix  got  up 
a  splendid  dinner,  and  had  all  the  officers  of  the  post,  except  Col- 
onel Neill,  dine  with  them,  giving  me  a  chance  to  get  better  ac- 
quainted with  General  Palmer,  who  is  on  his  way  to  take  com- 
mand of  the  regiment  and  establish  his  headquarters  at  Fort 
Lararnie, 


195 

December  3,  1866. 

After  a  careful  inspection  yesterday,  General  Palmer  and  party 
left  for  Laramie,  but  not  until  he  had  expressed  himself  as  highly 
pleased  with  the  splendid  condition  he  found  the  troops  in.  I  do 
not  believe  there  is  a  more  perfect  gentleman  in  the  Army.  He 
seemed  to  take  a  special  interest  in  me,  and  is  proud  of  the  suc- 
cessful scout  and  Indian  fight  I  had  a  few  weeks  ago,  as  it  goes 
to  the  credit  of  the  regiment. 

December  6,  1866. 

Captain  Mix  is  still  on  the  sick  report,  and  I  am  in-  command 
of  the  company.  Colonel  Neill  thought  he  would  vent  his  spite 
toward  Captain  Mix  today  by  ordering  me  to  send  the  best  laun- 
dress in  the  company  away.  So,  in  order  to  head  him  off,  I  told 
the  first  sergeant  that  if  he  could  find  a  man  in  the  company  who 
would  marry  her  she  would  not  have  to  go.  Soon  after  he  ap- 
peared with  Sergeant  Widman,  who  said  he  would  marry  her. 
There  not  being  any  minister  or  Chaplain  near,  I  sent  for  Lieuten- 
ant Halleck,  the  Post  Adjutant,  who  agreed  to  marry  them.  After 
sending  out  a  number  of  invitations,  the  ceremony  took  place  in 
the  barracks  at  4  o'clock  in  the  presence  of  Major  English,  Cap- 
tain Mix  and  wife,  Captain  Norwood  and  myself.  This  evening 
Major  English  selected  ten  or  twelve  of  the  best  singers  at  the 
post  to  serenade  the  bride  and  groom,  and  then  wound  up  at  Col- 
onel Neill's  headquarters.  The  Colonel  then  went  to  the  sutler's 
and  drank  with  the  men,  and  had  a  row  with  two  of  them.  One 
man  struck  Colonel  Neill  in  the  face,  and  then  the  fun  had  to  stop. 

December  10,  1866. 

Captain  Brown,  chief  engineer  of  surveying  party  for  Northern 
Pacific  Railroad,  passed  through  the  post  yesterday  and  dined 
with  me.  While  drilling  the  company  below  the  post  I  looked 
over  the  Platte  river  and  discovered  Paymaster  Armistead,  who 
was  unable  to  cross.  I  sent  the  company  to  the  barracks  by  First 
Sergeant  Miller,  and  undertook  to  cross  the  ice,  but  my  horse 
broke  through  seven  times  before  reaching  the  Paymaster,  and  T 
came  near  being  carried  under  the  ice  by  the  current,  which  was 
very  strong.  Major  Armistead  was  glad  to  see  me,  as  he  was 
nearly  frozen  and  half  starved,  not  being  able  to  get  fuel  for  a  fire 
to  cook  with.  T  managed  to  get  back  to  the  post,  selected  twenty 


196 

men,  secured  a  flat-bottomed  boat,  and  with  a  long  rope  got  the 
boat  over  all  right,  and  told  the  Paymaster  and  his  clerk,  Stephen 
Jecko,  his  young  nephew  and  son  of  Judge  Jecko  of  St.  Louis,  to 
get  in.  After  the  iron  safe  was  placed  in  the  boat,  the  men  started, 
and  about  the  middle  of  the  river  the  ice  gave  way  and  the  old 
Major  thought  he  was  gone,  but  by  careful  management  my  men 
got  him  safely  landed,  and  he  showed  he  appreciated  their  action 
by  giving  each  soldier  a  good  big  drink  of  whiskey,  which  pleases 
a  soldier  more  than  anything  else,  as  whiskey  is  scarce  in  this  part 
of  the  country.  The  Paymaster  has  agreed  to  stand  by  me  in 
case  of  any  trouble  I  may  have  with  my  commanding  officer,  Colo- 
nel Neill,  and  he  says  he  will  never  forget  the  kindness  I  have 
shown  him.  He  blames  Colonel  Neill  for  his  neglect  in  not  try- 
ing to  get  him  into  the  post  last  night,  when  he  knew  he  was 
across  the  river  without  fuel  or  anything  to  eat. 

On  the  Prairie,  C.  T.,  December  12,  1866. 

I  obtained  permission  to  go  buffalo  hunting  yesterday,  and  I 
took  Bugler  Green  and  Sergeant  Allison.  Mr.  Newman  joiner!  at 
Julesburg,  and  after  a  ride  of  ten  miles,  we  discovered  a  small 
herd.  I  killed  one  after  a  half-mile  chase,  and  stopped  to  cut  his 
tongue  out  and  cut  his  tail  off,  supposing  the  rest  of  the  party 
knew  where  I  was,  but  as  the  buffalo  scattered  in  different  direc- 
tions, and  the  men  after  them,  I  was  soon  lost  sight  of.  It  being 
sundown  and  a  storm  approaching,  and  about  twenty  miles  from 
tile  post,  I  knew  it  was  useless  to  try  to  get  back  tonight ;  so  I 
unsaddled  my  horse  and  secured  him  with  a  lariat,  and  made  my 
bed  by  the  side  of  the  buffalo,  as  I  thought  it  best  to  remain  until 
sunrise  tomorrow  morning. 

Fort  Sedgwick,  C.  T.,  December  14,  1866. 

Just  as  the  sun  rose  yesterday  my  horse  threw  up  his  head  and 
neighed,  when  he  was  answered  by  horses  at  a  distance.  I  sprang 
from  under  my  blanket,  with  my  pistols  and  carbine,  making  a 
breastwork  of  the  buffalo,  thinking  Indians  were  coming,  but  I 
soon  discovered  Sergeant  Allison,  Green  and  Mr.  Newman  com- 
ing toward  me.  They  had  hunted  for  me  for  awhile,  then  unsad- 
dled and  remained  all  night  in  one  place.  Reaching  the  post 
about  3  o'clock  this  afternoon,  I  reported  to  Colonel  Neill  and 


197 

presented  him  with  a  nice  tenderloin  buffalo  steak,  which  he  ac- 
cepted, and  then  ordered  me  to  my  quarters  in  arrest.  I  felt 
pretty  bad,  as  it  was  impossible  for  me  to  have  returned  sooner. 
(Arrest  No.  10.) 

Upon  our  return  we  came  out  at  Bovey's  Ranch  on  the  Platte 
river,  where  we  met  Captain  Hart,  who  is  on  his  way  to  his  regi- 
ment, and  after  a  good  dinner,  which  was  gotten  up  specially  for 
us  (we  had  had  nothing  to  eat  for  forty-eight  hours),  we  came  to 
the  post  in  Captain  Hart's  ambulance.  During  the  night  we  were 
out  Captain  Mix  sent  all  the  men  he  could  spare  from  the  post  to 
look  for  us,  signal  fires  were  made  on  the  highest  hills,  but  we 
were  unable  to  discover  them.  We  had  been  given  up  by  most 
everyone  at  the  post,  as  there  are  so  many  Indians  on  the  war- 
path, trying  to  capture  just  such  parties  as  ours.  Captain  Nor- 
wood had  taken  some  artillery  out  several  miles  from  the  post  to 
fire,  thinking,  perhaps,  we  might  get  the  direction  of  the  post 
from  the  sound  of  the  guns.  Captain  Mix  did  not  return  with  the 
company  until  this  evening,  and  he  was  glad  to  see  me  alive,  in 
spite  of  the  long  and  tiresome  hunt  he  had  made  for  us. 

December  16,  1866. 

Being  still  in  arrest,  I  have  had  plenty  of  time  to  read  and  rest. 
I  finished  a  book  on  the  "First  Battle  of  Bull  Run,"  and  wrote 
twenty-two  letters.  At  7  o'clock  this  evening  Colonel  Neill  had 
me  marched  to  his  quarters  under  charge  of  a  sentry,  and  gave 
me  orders  to  explain  why  I  did  not  return  to  the  post  the  day  I 
left  it.  He  was  just  sober  enough  to  be  in  a  good  humor,  and  ac- 
cepted my  explanation,  ordered  the  sentry  to  his  quarters  and 
released  me  from  arrest. 

December  18,  1866. 

We  had  three  hours  of  mounted  drill  today.  Being  Officer  of 
the  Day,  I  had  to  superintend  having  the  three  deserters  securely 
ironed,  as  they  were  brought  in  this  morning.  Lieut.  H.  S.  Gal- 
braith,  Eighteenth  Infantry,  who  has  been  Colonel  Neill's  guest, 
was  ordered  out  of  his  quarters  today,  and  is  now  my  guest. 

December  20,  1866. 

While  at  a  target  with  my  company  today,  and  explaining  to 
Lieutenants  Harmon  and  Galbraith  and  the  ladies  who  came  out 


198 

with  them  how  nicely  the  new  carbines  worked,  a  shell  exploded 
in  the  breech  and  almost  put  my  eyes  out.  Dr.  Latham  and  the 
hospital  steward  worked  on  my  face  for  several  hours  this  after- 
noon, picking  out  the  powder,  and  i  am  much  better  tonight, 
although  suffering  a  great  deal  of  pain. 

December  24,  1866. 

The  Indians  set  fire  to  the  prairie  a  few  miles  from  here,  and  the 
danger  of  the  hay  and  post  buildings  being  burned  required  me 
to  take  all  the  men  I  could  gather  together  and  try  to  stop  it.  Cap- 
tain Mix  gave  me  his  secret  of  acting,  which  I  shall  never  forget, 
as  it  may  prove  valuable  to  me  in  the  future.  I  carried  it  out  with 
effect  by  setting  fire  to  the  grass  near  the  post  and  starting  it 
towards  the  fire  that  was  working  this  way,  and  when  the  two 
fires  met  they  went  out,  and  thus  the  post  was  saved.  Captain  and 
Mrs.  Beebe  have  invited  me  to  a  party  at  their  house  tomorrow 
night.  Lieutenant  Fitch,  formerly  of  the  Nineteenth,  V.  R.  C, 
arrived  by  stage  and  is  my  guest. 

Christmas,  December  25,  1866. 

After  breakfast  this  morning  Lieutenant  Fitch  and  I,  with 
twenty-five  mounted  men  as  an  escort,  went  on  an  antelope  hunt, 
and  after  selecting  a  large  buck,  I  started  after  him  at  a  full  run, 
firing  my  revolver  at  every  jump,  and  after  a  chase  of  a  mile  one 
of  my  shots  broke  his  leg,  when  I  rode  up  and  killed  him.  It 
took  two  men  to  lift  him  on  a  horse,  and  as  he  was  the  first  I 
ever  killed,  I  felt  rather  proud,  and  was  congratulated  by  all  my 
friends  at  the  post  this  afternoon. 

December  26,  1866. 

It  was  four  o'clock  this  morning  ere  the  party  broke  up.  I 
never  saw  people  enjoy  themselves  more  than  they  did  last  night. 
We  had  music  and  dancing  and  supper  at  twelve  o'clock.  Mrs. 
Scott  was  the  belle.  Mrs.  Captain  Mix  and  Latham  deserve  a 
great  deal  of  credit  for  the  good  supper  and  tasty  display  of  every- 
thing. After  two  hours  of  mounted  drill  this  afternoon,  which  I 
conducted  in  the  absence  of  Captain  Mix,  with  Lieutenant  Fitch 
as  spectator,  he  left  on  the  stage  for  his  post.  Just  after  dinner 
this  evening  news  came  to  us  all  here  that  Lieutenant-Colonel 


199 

Fetterman,  Twenty-seventh  Infantry;'  Captain  Brown  and  Lieu- 
tenant Gennmond  of  the  Eighteenth  Infantry,  and  Lieutenant 
Wandless,  commanding  Company  C  of  the  Second  Cavalry,  with 
ninety  enlisted  men,  besides  a  number  of  citizens,  had  all  been 
killed  by  the  Indians  at  or  near  Fort  Phil  Kearney.  Such  news 
is  sad,  but  we  expect  further  details  tomorrow. 

December  28,  1866. 

Captain  Norwood  and  I  were  on  a  board  of  survey  yesterday. 
The  news  of  the  massacre  is  confirmed,  and  troops  have  been  sent 
after  the  Indians  from  Fort  Laramie.  Twenty-five  four-mule 
wagons  had  gone  several  miles  from  the  post  after  wood.  While 
returning  fifty  or  one  hundred  Indians  charged  at  the  train,  and 
Colonel  Fetterman,  who  was  guarding  it,  started  with  ninety  en- 
listed men  and  thirty-one  citizens  after  the  Indians,  who  ran  into 
a  deep  ravine  about  a  mile  from  the  main  road.  They  were  im- 
mediately ambushed  by  several  thousand  Indians,  who  were  hid- 
den behind  the  bushes,  rocks  and  hills.  Not  one  man  of  the  one 
hundred  and  twenty-one  was  left,  all  being  killed  and  many  bodies 
being  mutilated. 

December  29,  1866. 

Captain  Mix  was  placed  in  close  arrest  before  guard-mount 
this  morning  by  Colonel  Neill,  who  also  forbade  my  going  near 
his  quarters  or  speaking  to  him  on  company  business.  He  also 
forbade  me  from  speaking  to  Mrs.  Mix  on  any  pretext,  or  a 
guard  would  soon  be  placed  over  me.  Of  course  I  have  to  obey 
orders. 


CHAPTER  V. 

EXTRACTS     FROM     DIARY,     ETC. 

January  i,  1867. 

I  came  off  duty  as  Officer  of  the  Day  this  morning,  seeing  the 
old  year  out  and  the  new  one  in.  Captain  Mix  relieved  me.  Col- 
onel Neill  received  orders  to  turn  over  all  quartermaster's  stores 
to  Captain  Norwood,  who  has  been  appointed  Post  Quarter- 
master. I  can  hardly  realize  that  1  am  just  starting  another  new 
year.  In  looking  back  on  the  contrast  of  my  last  year  with  my 
present  surroundings  and  what  I  have  been  through  during  the 
past  six  months,  settled  and  established  hundreds  of  miles  from 
civilization,  surrounded  by  rattlesnakes,  Indians,  buffalo  and 
other  wild  animals,  it  seems  almost  like  a  dream. 

I  am  thankful  to  God  for  giving  me  health  and  strength 
to  abstain  from  the  many  wicked  vices  surrounding  a 
young  Army  officer  on  the  frontier,  and  hope  and  pray  that  I  may 
be  able  to  continue  an  upright  course  and  not  yield  to  the  many 
temptations  and  snares  to  which  so  many  give  way  in  this  coun- 
try, but  follow  the  advice  and  teaching  of  my  dear  mother,  to 
whom  I  was  devoted,  and  who  died  a  true  Christian. 

January  2,  1867. 

Private  Sullivan  was  reported  absent  at  reveille  this  morning. 
1  started  a  searching  party  after  him,  and  about  eleven  o'clock  his 
body  was  found  on  the  ice  in  the  middle  of  the  river  holding  a  hen 
in  one  hand  and  a  rooster  in  the  other.  All  three  were  frozen  to 
death — Sullivan,  rooster  and  hen.  Air.  Sullivan  had  been  in  the 
habit  of  crossing  the  river  during  the  night  to  get  whiskey  from 
a  ranch  opposite  the  post,  and  being  fond  of  chickens,  concluded 
he  would  have  an  extra  dish  that  Uncle  Sam  does  not  furnish  his 
boarders.  The  owner  of  the  ranch  had  made  complaint  that  his 
chickens  were  being  stolen,  but  the  thief  was  sly  enough  to  keep 
from  being  caught.  He  must  have  taken  more  whiskey  than 
usual,  or  stopping  to  meditate,  fallen  asleep  and  frozen  to  death. 

I  ordered  Sergeant  Miller  to  send  me  a  detail  from  the  com- 
pany to  dig  a  grave,  selected  a  place  on  the  river  bank,  and  Cor- 
poral Lyon  with  five  men  soon  reported,  wrapped  a  blanket 


2OI 

around  Private  Sullivan  and  his  chickens  and  buried  them  four 
and  one-half  feet  deep.  The  owner  of  the  ranch,  who  witnessed 
the  ceremony,  seemed  greatly  relieved,  and  now  feels  that  his 
chickens  will  be  safe  in  the  future. 

January  3,  1867. 

An  order  came  from  department  headquarters  today  placing 
Colonel  Neill  under  arrest  and  Captain  Mix  in  command  of  the 
post. 

January  4,    1867. 

1  moved  into  my  new  quarters  this  morning.  News  came  to 
the  post  today  that  two  men  have  just  been  killed  and  scalped  by 
the  Indians  near  Fort  Casper  and  the  telegraph  wires  cut  so  that 
we  cannot  get  particulars. 

January  5,   1867. 

The  Indians  are  murdering  ranchmen,  emigrants  and  all  people 
they  meet.  The  settlers  are  frightfully  alarmed  as  they  see  that 
we  have  not  half  enough  soldiers  to  protect  them.  Returning  to 
my  quarters,  I  found  an  order  from  Capt.  Mix  appointing  me  Post 
Adjutant  and  the  following  letter  from  Gen.  Hancock : 

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January  6,  1867. 

Entered  upon  my  duties  as  Post  Adjutant  this  morning  after 
attending  stables  for  Companies  K  and  M ;  drilled  Company  K 
two  hours,  mounted,  this  forenoon.  The  Paymaster  paid  all  the 
companies  this  afternoon.  Campany  M's  stables  caught  fire  in 
the  saddler's  room  this  evening  and  burnt  up  my  double  harness, 
saddle  and  bridle  and  over  $100  worth  of  my  traps.  Major  Bur- 
bank  and  Mr.  Beebe,  his  clerk,  are  guests  of  Captain  Mix.  Dr: 
Latham,  Captain  Mix,  Major  Burbank,  Mr.  Beebe,  Wentworth 
(the  scout)  and  I,  with  ten  enlisted  men  as  an  escort  and  a  six- 
mule  wagon,  went  on  a  buffalo  hunt  yesterday.  Captain  Mix 
killed  two,  Mr.  Beebe  one,  Wentworth  five,  I  only  one,  bringing 
back  the  wagon  loaded  all  within  three  hours  from  the  time  we 
left  the  post.  Captain  Norwood  returned  from  Fort  Laramie,  re- 
lieved me  from  command  of  his  company  today  and  started  with  it 
for  Fort  Laramie.  I  have  to  attend  to  all  the  calls,  stables,  guard- 
mount,  drills,  etc.,  and  go  on  duty  as  Officer  of  the  Day  in  addi- 
tion to  my  duties  as  Post  Adjutant. 


204 

January  13,  1867. 

They  had  a  lively  time  today.  Colonel  Neill  sent  word  to  Cap- 
tain Mix  that  he  was  going  to  take  command  of  the  post.  He 
broke  his  close  arrest  by  going  to  his  first  sergeant  and  trying  to 
get  him  to  fall  his  company  in  line  to  arrest  Captain  Mix.  I  was 
ordered  to  put  him  back  in  his  quarters,  when  he  rushed  into  the 
sutler's  store,  where  he  backed  up  in  the  corner  of  the  room  with 
two  loaded  revolvers,  threatening  to  shoot  any  person  who  dared 
to  molest  him.  I  marched  the  sergeant  of  the  guard  and  two  men 
into  the  room  and  took  a  loaded  revolver  in  my  hand,  intending 
to  get  Colonel  Neill  to  his  quarters  dead  or  alive,  and  just  as  the 
Colonel  and  I  were  about  to  shoot  at  each  other  Dr.  Latham 
rushed  in  and  sang  out :  "Colonel  Neill,  I  have  something  im- 
portant to  tell  you/'  and  walked  up  to  him.  They  were  soon  on 
their  way  to  his  quarters  admiring  the  Colonel's  pistols,  which  the 
Doctor  managed  to  get  possession  of.  I  at  once  placed  two 
guards  over  the  Colonel  in  his  quarters  and  took  possession  of 
his  revolvers. 

January  15,  1867. 

Governor  Cummings  of  Colorado  and  Major  Lewis  Thompson, 
Second  Cavalry,  his  military  secretary,  arrived  yesterday.  The 
Major  is  my  guest.  Colonel  Neill  having  sobered  up  a  little  and 
given  his  word  to  Captain  Mix  that  he  would  not  give  further 
trouble,  the  guard  was  taken  off.  Reports  of  a  large  war  party 
of  Indians  being  near  came  to  the  post  during  the  day.  I  am 
ready  to  go  for  them  with  three  companies,  and  can  be  on  the 
march  within  five  minutes  after  receiving  orders. 

Captain  Dewees,  Lieutenants  Cahill  and  Neill  left  today  for 
Fort  Laramie  with  their  command.  Three  better  officers  than 
they  cannot  be  found  in  our  Army.  Captain  Mix  sent  me  with  a 
sergeant  and  ten  men  to  Julesburg  this  afternoon  after  a  band  of 
robbers  who  had  broken  in  and  stolen  a  lot  of  goods  from  one  of 
the  stores  there,  but  had  gotten  away  before  I  got  there, 
going  northwest  with  hundreds  of  dollars'  worth  of  goods.  I  am 

in  command  of  the  post  in  Captain  Mix's  absence. 

0 

January  16,  1867. 

Captain  Mix  gave  me  orders  to  assume  command  of  Com- 
panies B  and  D,  Eighteenth  Infantry.  Have  been  kept  busy  all 
day. 


205 

Meig's  Ranch,  D.  T.,  January  21,  1867. 

Orders  came  yesterday  afternoon  to  take  four  six-mule  wagons 
and  twenty-five  men  of  my  company,  proceed  to  an  old  canon 
fifty  miles  from  the  post  and  take  possession  of  a  large  amount  of 
stolen  goods  reported  to  be  there  and  capture  the  robbers  if  pos- 
sible. I  left  the  post  at  daybreak,  and  in  crossing  the  Platte  river 
the  wagon  broke  through  the  ice.  I  was  detained  four  hours,  and 
am  now  camping  out  in  a  very  cold  snowstorm  without  wood  or 
anything  to  burn,  even  to  make  coffee.  Mr.  Hughes,  owner  of 
the  ranch,  has  kindly  let  us  have  the  use  of  his  fireplace  to  cook 
what  coffee  we  need,  but  cannot  give  us  any  further  comfort. 

Pole  Creek,  Twenty  Miles  from 

Laramie  Ranch,  January  22,  1867. 

During  last  night,  just  as  I  had  gotten  half  asleep  under  my 
blanket  in  the  snow,  the  sergeant  of  the  guard  reported  that  he  be- 
lieved a  party  of  Indians  were  trying  to  break  into  the  camp. 
Quietly  having  all  the  men  placed  under  arms,  with  instructions  not 
to  let  an  Indian  or  robber  get  away  alive,  I  went  to  the  outpost  and 
soon  heard  my  name  called  in  English,  and  Sergeant  Wiclman  re- 
ported with  twenty-five  men,  handing  me  the  following  letter : 

Headquarters  Fort  Seclgwick,  C.  T., 

January  23,  1867. 
Lieut.  G.  A.  Armes, 

Second  U.  S.  Cavalry: 

Sir — I  send  you  a  wagon  loaded  with  forage  and  rations,  about 
four  days  each,  also  your  saddle  horse  Ranger,  some  bandages  and 
lint.  You  must  not  take  your  wagons  too  far  in  a  fight.  They 
would  ruin  you.  Leave  them  at  a  safe  place.  When  you  get  near 
the  Indians,  use  your  own  judgment,  always  keeping  in  mind  that 
your  horses  have  much  hard  work  to  do  after  this  trip.  I  cannot 
spare  you  any  more  men,  for  we  must  keep  enough  here  to  protect 
the  post  and  keep  matters  quiet  around  us.  I  think  you  have 
men  enough  to  fight  all  the  Indians  that  you  are  likely  to  meet.  At 
all  events  you  must  do  the  best  you  can  with  the  men  at  your  dis- 
posal. Very  respectfully, 

Yonr  obedient  servant, 
(Signed)         J.  Mix,  Captain, 

Commanding  Post. 


206 

I  sent  a  sergeant  back  to  the  post  with  a  request  that  at  least 
fifty  more  men  be  sent  to  me,  as  some  forty  or  fifty  men  who  were 
sent  to  Laramie,  coining  to  Sharp's  Woods,  were  surrounded  by 
Indians  and  almost  starved  out.  One  man  had  ventured  out  and 
got  to  me  with  this  information.  Not  waiting  for  reinforcements, 
]  started  out  at  three  o'clock  this  morning  in  the  snowstorm  with 
fifty-five  men  and  five  wagons  for  the  wood-choppers'  camp, 
about  forty  miles  up  in  the  canons.  I  halted  at  eight  this  morn- 
ing at  Lewis'  Ranch  on  Pole  creek,  and  at  nine  o'clock  was  again 
on  the  march  to  rescue  the  citizen  wood-choppers.  We  had  not 
marched  more  than  twenty  miles  when  a  band  of  Indians  came 
dashing  at  us.  I  at  once  had  my  wagons  parked  and  left  them  in 
charge  of  the  teamsters  and  ten  soldiers.  Then  I  deployed  my 
men,  placing  Lieutenant  Jenness  in  command  of  the  left,  and 
charged  the  Indians,  who  wheeled  and  ran  over  the  hills  into  the 
deep  ravine  full  of  snow,  my  little  command  after  them,  firing  our 


RESCUING  THE  WOODCHOPPERS. 

carbines,  yelling  and  making  as  much  noise  as  we  could.  After 
a  chase  of  three  miles  the  Indians  disappeared,  and  all  we  got  was 
one  Indian  pony  with  a  war-bag  full  of  dried  meat,  saddle  and 
bridle,  bow  and  quivers,  shield  and  a  number  of  Indian  trinkets, 
with  six  or  seven  head  of  cattle  they  had  just  stolen  and  driven 


207 

from  the  wood-choppers'  camp,  which  is  only  ten  miles  further 
on.  My  scout  thinks  all  the  men  have  been  murdered,  and  that 
the  Indians  are  making  for  the  village  with  the  stolen  stock,  so 
I  will  not  wait  for  reinforcements,  but  go  forward  tonight  and 
search  the  camp  if  possible.  The  snow  is  over  a  foot  deep  on  a 
level,  and  five  and  six  feet  deep  in  the  canons.  I  first  sent  in  a 
request  to  the  post  to  hurry  me  forward  more  men  if  possible, 
stating  that  I  will  go  forward  tonight,  and  that  one  of  my  men 
was  killed  or  captured  by  the  Indians,  but  I  lost  no  time  in  spite 
of  the  suffering  of  myself  and  men.  If  it  had  not  been  for  the 
assistance  of  Lieutenant  Jenness  I  hardly  believe  one  of  us  would 
have  been  left,  but  he  helped  to  cheer  the  men  forward  and  charge 
\\hen,  judging  by  the  large  band  of  Indians,  it  was  hopeless. 


RETURN  FROM  THE  RESCUE. 

Pole  Creek  Crossing,  Lewis'  Ranch,  D.  T.,  January  24,  1867. 

After  taking  the  captured  cattle  and  ponies  to  the  wagon  camp 
we  got  a  little  coffee  and  something  to  eat.  No  signs  of  reinforce- 
ments coming,  we  started  for  the  wood  camp,  about  twenty  miles 
northwest  in  the  mountains,  which  we  reached  about  ten  o'clock 
last  night  in  the  midst  of  one  of  the  coldest  Dakota  blizzards  I 
ever  experienced.  The  Indians  who  had  been  holding  the  wood- 
choppers  prisoners  scattered  the  moment  the  little  command  was 


208 

discovered,  when  the  citizens  rushed  out  wild  with  excitement 
and  rejoicing  over  our  arrival  and  their  rescue  from  starvation 
and  death.  They  had  been  out  of  provisions  for  two  days,  and 
were  boiling  their  shoes  and  boots  to  appease  their  hunger.  My 
men  divided  their  rations  with  them,  got  a  hasty  meal,  and  after 
getting  warmed  up  a  little  by  the  good  fires  they  had  there,  we 
started  on  the  trail  of  the  Indians,  hoping  to  surprise  and  capture 
their  village,  about  ten  miles  further  on.  Twenty  of  the  wood- 
choppers,  well  armed  with  Winchesters  and  revolvers,  volunteered 
to  go  with  me,  the  rest  starting  on  our  back  trail  for  the  wagons 
we  had  left  behind,  taking  orders  to  the  sergeant  in  charge  to 
return  to  this  ranch  and  wait  for  further  orders.  We  discovered 
the  village  about  four  o'clock  this  morning,  and  charged  into  it  to 
find  it  empty.  Not  a  live  Indian  could  be  seen,  and  my  scout  soon 
informed  us  that  from  what  he  had  discovered  he  judged  the  vil- 
lage had  been  abandoned  about  five  hours,  and  that  the  Indians 
who  had  held  the  wood-choppers  prisoners,  discovering  our  ap- 
proach in  the  night,  supposed  I  had  a  large  force,  hastened  to 
their  camp  with  the  alarm,  and  the  Indians  got  their  families  out 
as  quickly  as  possible,  starting  for  the  mountains  in  a  panic.  After 
following  their  trail  about  ten  miles  I  found  it  useless  to  attempt 
it  further,  as  the  horses  would  plunge  in  the  ravines  filled  with 
soft  snow  from  five  to  ten  feet  deep,  and  as  the  men  were  begin- 
ning to  grow  numb  with  the  cold,  I  started  for  the  ranch  about 
twelve  o'clock.  It  has  taken  rne  eleven  hours  to  come  twenty-five 
miles. 

Meigs'  Ranch,  C.  T.,  January  25,  1867. 

It  was  between  eleven  and  twelve  o'clock  last  night  when  we 
reached  Lewis'  Ranch.  When  I  was  taken  off  my  horse  and  car- 
ried into  Mr.  Lewis'  room,  which  he  kindly  gave  up  to  me,  and  as 
soon  as  the  ice  had  melted  from  over  my  mouth  so  I  could  speak, 
I  requested  runners  to  be  sent  in  to  the  post  for  two  or  three  am- 
bulances for  the  frozen  men,  who  are  unable  to  sit  on  their  horses 
without  great  suffering. 

Lewis  gave  his  cowboys  orders  to  have  all  my  horses  put  under 
his  sheds  and  well  fed  and  to  bring  a  lot  of  dry  hay  into  the  ranch 
and  make  all  the  men  as  comfortable  as  possible,  while  he  and 
his  clerk  gave  their  personal  attention  to  me.  I  was  bathed  in 
cold  water  and  rubbed  with  towels  until  the  doctor  thought  I 


2O9 

would  pull  through  without  losing  any  fingers  or  toes.  Many  of 
the  men  who  had  to  be  taken  off  their  horses  will  lose  their  fingers 
and  toes,  and  in  one  or  two  cases,  I  am  afraid,  their  hands  and 
feet. 

I  must  mention  the  kind  attention  of  Mrs.  Major  Kellogg. 
After  she  had  started  on  to  Fort  Laramie  the  blizzard  became  so 
severe  that  she  came  back  to  this  ranch,  and  upon  her  arrival, 
although  suffering  from  the  cold  herself,  she  at  once  lent  a  help- 
ing hand  to  us  all. 

It  was  after  ten  o'clock  this  morning  before  I  could  get  away 
from  Lewis'  Ranch,  as  I  had  to  put  my  frozen  men  in  six-mule 
wagons,  making  them  comfortable  as  possible,  and  after  being 
placed  on  my  horse  and  my  feet  and  hands  bundled  up,  we  started 
for  this  ranch. 

About  three  o'clock  this  afternoon  the  only  ambulance  from 
the  post  met  us,  and  after  placing  seven  of  the  worst  cases  in  it 
I  sent  it  to  the  post  with  orders  to  hasten  back  to  this  ranch  for 
more  men  who  are  unable  to  sit  on  their  horses  at  all. 

The  ranch  being  too  small  to  give  us  shelter,  we  are  all  camped 
in  the  snow  tonight,  and  as  fire  only  makes  us  worse,  we  are 
doing  without  any. 

Thirty-two  of  the  forty  men  who'went  with  me  to  the  Indian 
village  are  badly  frozen,  which  gives  the  other  ten  men  a  great 
deal  of  extra  work,  as  they  have  the  care  of  the  horses  in  addition 
to  waiting  upon  their  frozen  comrades. 

It  is  a  good  thing  the  Indians  did  not  discover  the  strength  of 
my  little  command,  for  if  they  had  and  we  had  met  them  in  their 
village  not  one  of  us  would  have  been  left,  as  the  scouts  say  there 
were  ten  Indians  to  one  of  us,  and  with  the  assistance  of  their 
squaws  could  have  massacred  us  in  a  few  moments. 

Fort  Sedg-wick,  C.  T.,  January  26,  1867. 

Two  ambulances  arrived  at  my  camp  during  last  night,  and  I 
sent  fourteen  more  of  my  frozen  men  to  the  post,  then  saddled  up 
and  marched  the  rest  of  the  command  in,  reaching  the  post  at 
twelve  o'clock,  where  I  was  placed  in  a  cold  room  by  Dr.  Latham 
and  every  attention  shown  that  could  be  to  cure  me.  Captain 
Mix  called  on  me  with  General  Potter,  Colonel  of  the  Thirtieth 


2IO 


Infantry,  who  are  now  in  camp  near  the  post  waiting  for  the 
storm  to  abate  before  going  forward  to  Fort  Laramie.  Several 
of  his  officers  called  to  see  me  during  the  day,  but  1  am  in  such  a 
suffering  condition  that  I  could  not  talk  or  entertain  them.  I  feel 
considerably  cheered  up  from  the  fact  that  I  return  to  the  post 
without  the  loss  of  a  man  or  horse  being  left  on  the  plains,  with 
the  exception  of  the  man  killed  or  captured  by  the  Indians  during 
the  first  day's  fight.  Meeting  Mr.  Coad  last  night,  he  gave  me 
proof  that  "sixty-seven  head  of  cattle  and  one  pony  which  Lieu- 
tenant Geo.  A.  Armes,  Second  United  States  Cavalry,  captured 
from  the  Indians  belong  to  me  and  my  company.  Witnesses, 
Thomas  Randall,  Alva  Wylie.  (Signed)  J.  F.  Coad." 

Mr.  Coad  being  the  contractor,  the  recovery  of  his  cattle  will 
be  a  godsend  to  him  as  well  as  the  families  at  the  post,  as  he  can 
bring  his  wood  here  now,  which  we  were  in  great  need  of.  Mr. 
Coad  is  now  one  of  the  prominent  business  men  in  Omaha,  Neb. 

I  prepared  and  submitted  my  report  as  follows : 

Fort  Sedgwick,  C.  T.,  January  26,  1867. 
Capt.  J.  Mix, 

Second  U.  S.  Cavalry, 

Commanding  Post,  Fort  Sedgwick,  C.  T. : 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  inform  you  that  Sergeant  Weidman, 
with  twenty-five  men,  overtook  me  at  n  o'clock  P.  M.  on  the  2ist 
inst.  twelve  miles  from  this  post,  at  Meig's  Ranch,  where  I  stopped 
a  short  time.  I  left  Meig's  Ranch,  with  thirty-seven  men,  at  3  A. 
M.  on  the  22d;  reached  Lewis'  Ranch,  at  Pole  Creek  Crossing, 
thirty  miles,  at  9  A.  M.,  ate  breakfast,  and  left  at  10  A.  M.  for  the 
canons  on  Lawrence  Fork,  thirty-eight  miles,  to  rescue  Coad  and 
his  men;  proceeded  up  Pole  creek  twelve  or  fifteen  miles,  when  I 
discovered  Indians;  sent  my  wagons  to  a  safe  place  and  parked 
them,  and  started  after  the  Indians  with  thirty-four  men;  followed 
them  four  miles,  when  they  scattered  in  the  bluffs  and  hid  behind 
rocks,  etc.  They  tried  to  decoy  me  with  traps,  by  sending  one  or 
two  out  at  a  time.  I  sent  a  sergeant  and  four  men  out,  and  cap- 
tured one  pony,  which  an  Indian  had  ridden  out  most  too  far;  the 
Indian  escaped  behind  the  rock.  I  dismounted  my  men,  climbed 
up  the  bluffs,  and  tried  to  get  in  rear  of  them,  but  failed;  the  snow 
was  so  deep  it  was  impossible  to  follow  them.  I  then  mounted  and 
started,  and  in  trying  to  cross  gullies  the  horses  would  sink  in  so 
deep  it  was  with  the  greatest  difficulty  that  the  men  could  get  them 
out,  even  by  dismounting.  I  concluded  it  was  not  policy  to 
risk  my  men  in  the  canons,  as  it  was  growing  dusk,  and  the  Indians 
ten  to  one.  So  I  returned  to  the  wagons,  after  a  round  trip  of  fif- 


211 

teen  miles,  then  fed  the  animals,  and  started  on  to  Lawrence 
Fork,  which  was  twenty-three  miles;  reached  there,  and  rescued 
Coad  and  twenty-one  men  at  2  A.  M.,  the  23d  inst. ;  fed  and  rested 
until  7  A.  M.,  then  started  for  the  Indian  camp,  eight  miles;  found 
it  deserted,  and  took  fifty  head  of  cattle,  which  they  had  left  behind 
in  their  hurry.  I  returned  to  Lawrence  Fork  at  1 1  A.  M.,  took  four 
mules  from  the  teams,  packed  them  with  grain  and  blankets,  and 
started  on  the  trail  at  3  P.  M. ;  marched  all  night  until  4  A.  M.,  the 
24th,  when  I  stopped  near  Pine  Bluffs,  making  forty  miles;  fed  and 
started  again  at  7  A.  M.,  marched  twenty-five  miles,  when  I  lost 
the  trail,  as  the  wind  had  blown  the  snow  in  and  filled  it  up  so  that 
it  could  not  be  found.  I  then  started  for  Pole  Creek  Crossing, 
which  I  reached  at  dusk,  making  a  march  of  fifty-eight  miles;  left 
Pole  creek  at  10  A.  M.,  on  the  25th,  and  reached  Meig's  Ranch  at 
7  P.  M.,  thirty  miles;  stopped  all  night,  and  left  this  morning,  the 
26th,  at  7  o'clock,  and  arrived  at  this  post  at  10  A.  M.  Twenty- 
seven  of  my  men  are  frozen,  or  are  in  such  a  condition  that  I  am 
afraid  they  will  not  be  fit  for  anything  more  than  garrison  duty  as 
long  as  the  cold  weather  lasts.  1  have  not  lost  any  horses.  I  lost 
one  man,  who,  I  think,  was  captured  by  the  Indians  when  I 
charged  into  the  bluffs,  as  I  have  not  seen  him  since.  I  turned 
over  sixty-seven  head  of  cattle  and  one  pony,  which  I  captured 
from  the  Indians,  to  J.  F.  Coad  &  Co.,  after  having  sufficient 
proof  that  they  belonged  to  him  and  his  company.  Second  Lieut. 
John  Jenness,  Twenty-seventh  U.  S.  Inf.,  who  was  on  his  way  to 
join  his  regiment,  volunteered  his  services,  which  I  accepted.  I 
furnished  him  with  a  horse,  and  he  rendered  valuable  service  in 
the  charge,  and  behaved  himself  in  a  gallant  manner.  When  in 
the  canons,  and  in  great  danger,  he  set  a  fine  example  to  the  men 
by  his  coolness  and  determination.  It  is  my  opinion  he  will  be  a 
daring  and  useful  officer  to  the  Government.  Great  credit  is  due 
the  five  citizens  whose  names  I  will  send  in  to  you  soon,  with  the 
recommendation  that  they  be  employed  in  the  Quartermaster's 
Department,  as  they  are  now  out  of  employment  and  badly  frozen. 
Most  of  the  Indians  were  dressed  in  blue  overcoats  and  mounted 
on  American  horses.  Citizens  whom  I  have  talked  with,  and  who 
were  near  them  six  or  eight  days  ago,  state  that  some  are  armed 
with  Spencer  carbines,  and  seem  to  think  they  are  the  same  Indians 
who  partook  in  the  massacre  at  Fort  Phil  Kearney.  Sergeant 
Keane,  Corporals  Furniss  and  Dimmock,  and,  in  fact,  all  the  men, 
behaved  themselves  in  a  gallant  manner,  and  endured  the  hard- 
ships like  true  soldiers  and  men.  From  the  appearance  of  the  ar- 
rows found,  the  Indians  were  Cheyennes.  A  war  bag  was  taken 
from  the  captured  pony,  which  I  judge  contained  at  least  twenty 
days'  rations  of  dried  meat,  etc.  I  omitted  to  mention  that  seven- 
teen head  of  cattle  were  found  along  their  trail,  which  they  had  left 
in  their  retreat  when  I  charged  into  the  canons  after  them.  It  is 


212 

the  opinion  of  all  those  with  whom  I  have  talked  that  the  Indians 
from  above  are  coming  this  way  for  the  purpose  of  meeting  those 
from  the  Republican  and  attacking  this  road  some  time  in  Febru- 
ary. Total  number  of  miles  marched  since  I  left  this  post,  two 
hundred  and  forty-nine  (249).  The  horses  seem  to  be  still  in  good 
condition  and  not  much  worn. 

G.  A.  ARMES, 

Second  Lieut.,  U.  S.  Cav., 

Commanding  Detach. 

Capt.  Mix  endorses  my  report  as  follows:  "Lieut.  Armes  has 
in  this  case,  as  he  always  does,  carried  out  his  instructions 
with  energy  and  discretion.  The  severe  loss  in  frost-bitten  men 
is  to  be  regretted,  but  the  citizens  on  Lauren's  Fork  would  doubt- 
have  been  massacred  but  for  the  assistance  sent." 

NOTE. — A  paper  in  McClurc's  for  June,  1899,  by  W.  T.  Carney,  gives  a 
detailed  account  of  this  terrible  experience,  but  it  is  colored  to  suit  the  writer 
whom  I  had  reprimanded  for  inciting  to  mutiny.  I  had  no  more  to  eat  or 
wear  than  the  command;  no  pack-mule  to  carry  supplies  personal  to 
myself;  went  as  far  and  suffered  as  much  as  the  balance.  In  one  instance  I 
now  recall  I  gave  my  ovtrshoe*  to  one  of  the  men,  taking  them  off  my  feet 
to  do  so.  Capt.  Mix — not  Fox — did  not  reprimand  me,  nor  did  any  other 
of  my  superiors.  During  the  entire  time  I  did  not  leave  my  command  ex- 
cept as  stated  in  my  report. 

Fort  Sedgwick,  C.  T.,  January  27,  1867, 

My  frozen  fingers  caused  me  so  much  pain  and  suffering  during 
last  night  that  I  did  not  sleep.  Of  course  I  did  not  have  to  mount 
guard  as  Post  Adjutant,  although  I  am  not  on  the  sick  report. 

Mrs.  Captain  Mix  is  doing  all  she  can  to  make  me  comfortable, 
and  has  fixed  a  bed  in  her  side  of  the  house  for  me,  my  quarters 
being  taken  by  some  of  the  families  of  the  Thirtieth  Infantry,  who 
cannot  be  made  comfortable  in  camp. 

February  5,   1867. 

Mr.  Foot  from  Washington  left  by  stage  yesterday  for  Fort 
Saunders.  Captain  Mix  placed  me  in  command  of  the  post  today 
while  he  and  General  Potter  went  on  a  buffalo  hunt.  In  addition 
to  being  post  commander  and  Officer  of  the  Day,  I  am  Post  Ad- 
jutant, commander  of  Companies  B  and  E,  Thirty-sixth  United 
States  Infantry,  and  Company  M,  Second  Cavalry,  Post  Treas- 
urer and  Provost-Marshal,  which  duties  take  about  sixteen  hours 
of  mv  time  out  of  the  twenty-four. 


2I3 

Lately  looking  through  the  records  of  the  War  Department  I 
found  the  enclosed  letter  from  Governor  Kirkwood.  But  my  pro- 
motion had  been  made  by  General  Grant  before  they  reached  the 
department  without  any  request  of  mine : 

Senate  Chamber,  February  8,  1867. 
Hon.  Edw.  M.  Stanton, 

Secretary  of  War: 

Sir — I  enclose  a  letter  forwarded  to  me  by  John  Clark,  Esq., 
for  you. 

1  am  well  acquainted  with  Mr.  Clark,  and  take  pleasure  in  com- 
mending him  as  a  worthy  and  reliable  gentleman. 

I  have  understood  that  Lieutenant  Armes  has  been  promoted 
for  his  gallant  conduct,  and  trust  my  information  may  be  correct. 
Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         S.  J.  KIRKWOOD. 

Jefferson  City,  Mo.,  February  4,  1867. 
Hon.  E.  M.  Stanton, 

Secretary  of  War: 

I  take  the  liberty  of  an  old  friend  and  supporter  during  your 
early  career  in  Ohio,  and  who  has  had  the  good  fortune  (or  rather 
sense)  to  agree  with  you  in  all  the  trying  times  through  which  we 
have  recently  passed,  to  call  your  attention  to  the  case  of  Lieuten- 
ant Armes  of  the  Second  U.  S.  Cavalry  at  Fort  Sedgwick. 

Many  without  half  the  service  or  merit  rose  to  be  Brigadier  and 
Major-Generals.  He  rendered  the  most  important  service  at  the 
first  battle  of  Bull  Rim,  for  which  he  received  the  acknowledg- 
ments of  Generals  Heintzleman  and  Wilcox.  He  continued  to 
serve  wherever  duty  called  and  where  energy  and  courage  were 
wanted,  particularly  distinguishing  himself  in  a  charge  at  "Hatch- 
er's Run."  Having  been  appointed  Second  Lieutenant  in  Second 
U.  S.  Cavalry,  he  has  on  two  recent  occasions  performed  extraor- 
dinarily dangerous  and  valuable  service  against  superior  numbers 
of  hostile  Indians,  and  was  astonishingly  successful  in  both.  In 
the  last,  however,  he  and  his  command  were  badly  frozen.  Such 
conduct,  I  think,  where  you  have  the  power,  will  not  be  allowed 
to  pass  unnoticed  or  unrecognized. 

A  short  time  before  his  fight  he  wrote  me  that  he  would  be 
obliged  to  leave  the  service,  as  he  could  not  afford  to  remain  in  it; 
that  his  pay  was  $120  per  month,  and  that  $60  of  that  went  for 
boarding,  $35  for  servant,  $5  for  washing,  and  the  balance  would 
not  pay  for  his  clothing  and  other  necessary  expenses.  But  I 
think  he  ought  to  be  promoted  and  retained  in  the  service,  and 
have  written  to  call  attention  to  his  case  for  that  reason. 


2I4 

I  would  respectfully  refer  to  Hon.  S.  J.  Kirkwood  and  the  Hon. 
J.  W.  Grimes,  U.  S.  S. 

Truly  appreciating,  as  I  believe,  the  eminent  services  you  have 
rendered  our  country, 

I  am,  as  ever. 

Your  fast  friend  and  admirer, 

(Signed)         JNO.  CLARK, 

In  this  connection  an  extract  from  a  letter  of  my  father  is  per- 
tinent : 

Washington,  D.  C.,  January  19,  1867. 
Good-morning^  George : 

I  have  taken  upon  myself  to  ascertain  what  they  thought  of  you 
at  Army  headquarters  in  relation  to  your  glorious  and  successful 
Indian  achievement,  and  in  conversation  \vith  General  Townsend 
last  evening  he  told  me  that  General  Grant,  who  knows  you  per- 
sonally, was  highly  pleased  and  satisfied  you  ought  to  be  promoted, 
and  that  ever  since  complimentary  orders  had  been  issued  he  had 
been  trying  to  find  a  place  for  you,  but  after  a  talk  with  General 
Kelton,  I  learned  that  General  Grant  had  recalled  an  appointment 
of  some  other  officer,  and  put  you  in  his  place,  and  that  notifica- 
tion of  your  appointment  had  been  forwarded  for  your  acceptance. 
*  *  * 

Colonel  Dodge,  then  in  command,  released  Colonel  Neill 
from  arrest,  who  relieved  me  from  command  of  his  company. 

February  15,  1867. 

I  detailed  Colonel  Neill  for  Officer  of  the  Day  for  tomorrow, 
and  after  guard-mount  I  wrote  out  my  resignation  as  Post  Ad- 
jutant and  handed  it  to  Colonel  Dodge,  who  declined  to  accept 
it,  stating  that  he  desired  me  to  remain  his  Adjutant. 

After  dinner  Colonel  Dodge  and  I  took  a  horseback  ride,  call- 
ing on  General  Potter  and  his  officers  of  the  Thirtieth  Infantry, 
still  in  camp  opposite  the  post  on  the  other  side  of  the  Platte  river. 

The  following  is  self-explanatory  : 

-  Headquarters  Thirtieth  U.  S.  Infantry, 

Near  Fort  Sedgwick,  C.  T.,  February  19,  1867. 
Lieutenant: 

Can  you  let  me  have  one  hundred  and  twenty  (120)  gun  slings 
(Springfield  rifle)?  If  so,  please  let  the  orderly  bring  them  over, 
as  we  need  them  to  equip  the  men  at  once,  and  if  you  will  send 
the  invoices  and  receipts  I  will  receipt  for  them. 


215 

Very  truly, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

J.  S.  TOMPKINS, 
t  First  Lieut.  Thirtieth  U.  S.  Inf., 

Acting  Adjt. 
To  Post  Adjt.,  Fort  Sedgwick. 

Captain  Mix  will  comply  with  the  request  of  Lieutenant  Tomp- 
kins.  GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Lieut.  Second  Cavalry. 
February  19,  1867. 

Fort  Sedgwick,  February  19,  1867. 

Respectfully  returned  to  Lieutenant  Armes,  and  attention 
called  to  Par.  450,  Revised  Regulations. 

J.  Mix, 
Capt.  Second  Cavalry. 

The  above  orders  to  my  post  commander  was  an  unintentional 
oversight,  and  if  my  commanding  officer  at  this  time  had  not 
been  a  gentleman  I  might  have  been  severely  punished  and  much 
capital  made  of  my  endorsement. 

February  19,  1867. 

After  guard-mount  this  morning,  upon  returning  to  my  office, 
Colonel  Dodge  read  a  telegram  and  congratulated  me  upon  my 
appointment  as  Captain. 

I  told  him  I  had  received  it  some  days  ago,  but  did  not  want 
it  He  argued  that  it  was  a  very  important  position,  and  advised 
me  to  accept  it.  I  agreed  to  decide  by  tomorrow  morning. 

February  20,  1867. 

Dr.  and  Mrs.  Latham  sent  me  an  invitation  to  their  party  last 
night,  and  the  dance  did  not  break  up  until  after  three  this  morn- 
ing. Colonel  Dodge  and  I  had  a  long  chat,  and  after  his  calling 
my  attention  to  the  fact  that  my  promotion  would  place  me  over 
the  heads  of  several  hundreds  of  officers  who  now  outranked  me, 
and  that  the  promotion  \vas  for  gallant  and  meritorious  conduct, 
and  that  it  was  a  great  honor  to  be  mentioned  in  such  a  way  by 
my  superior  officers,  I  made  up  my  mind  to  accept,  and  Colonel 
Dodge  swore  me  in  today. 

News  of  a  large  party  of  Indians  on  the  warpath  was  brought  to 
the  post  tonight  by  Mr.  More  of  More's  Ranch,  fifty  miles  above 
here. 


216 

February  21,  1867. 

Lieutenant  Haughey  relieved  me  as  Post  Adjutant  yesterday 
forenoon,  when  I  was  ordered  to  go  with  Captain  Mix,  sixty-four 
mounted  men  and  four  six-mule  teams  to  carry  our  supplies  while 
after  the  war  party  of  Indians  reported  near  the  post.  I  invited 
Captain  Ray  to  go  with  us,  and  as  he  had  been  in  the  artillery, 
Captain  Mix  let  him  take  charge  of  the  piece  we  had. 

More's  Ranch,  C.  T.,  February  22,  1867. 

We  got  an  early  start  this  morning  and  reached  this  place  be- 
fore sunrise.  Mr.  More  was  delighted,  and  did  everything  in  his 
power  to  maks  us  comfortable.  The  Indians  stole  fifty  or  sixty 
of  his  horses  and  have  gone  towards  the  Republican  river. 

Summit  Springs,  C.  T.,  February  23,  1867. 
We  started  out  at  daybreak,  having  marched  nearly  fifty  miles 
in  a  cold  rainstorm.     No  signs  of  the  Indian  trail. 

Camp  Lookout,  C.  T.,  February  24,  1867. 

We  all  had  to  be  up  most  of  last  night  to  keep  the  animals  from 
freezing,  and  it  was  eight  o'clock  this  morning  when  the  com- 
mand started.  Nearly  all  the  horses  had  to  be  led,  as  the  plains 
are  one  sheet  of  ice,  not  a  tree  nor  brush  of  any  kind  in  sight,  and 
it  has  been  a  difficult  matter  to  make  any  headway,  as  all  the  ani- 
mals are  smooth-shod. 

Camp  Sandy,  C.  T.,  February  25,  1867. 

We  started  at  daybreak  this  morning  and  have  marched  fifty- 
seven  miles.  After  the  first  few  hours  we  reached  the  sandhills 
and  got  along  much  faster,  as  the  men  and  animals  would  break 
through  the  crust  of  ice  into  the  soft  sand  and  did  not  slip  nor 
slide  so  much.  The  command  is  comfortable  tonight,  as  the  great 
piles  of  sand  break  the  cold  wind  off.  Many  of  the  men  have  dug 
into  the  sand  to  keep  warm. 

Camp  on  Republican  River,  C.  T.,  February  28,  1867. 
Marched  on  the  trail  thirty-five  miles  yesterday  and  followed  it 
down  Chief  creek  to  this  river,  which  we  reached  at  three  o'clock 
this  afternoon.  Just  as  the  horses  were  unsaddled  one  of  the 
videttes  discovered  an  Indian  in  a  canon  and  fired  at  him,  when  he 
and  his  pony  soon  disappeared. 


217 

Captain  Mix  ordered  me  to  take  thirty  men  and  try  to  locate 
the  Indian  camp,  as  it  is  not  very  far 'off.  As  soon  as  I  was  out  of 
sight  of  our  camp  twenty  or  thirty  Indian  warriors  appeared  in 
my  front,  when  I  charged  them,  and  in  less  than  five  minutes  I 
discovered  several  hundred  Indians  forming  a  circle  around  us. 
I  then  galloped  to  one  of  the  highest  bluffs  and  dismounted  and 
prepared  my  men  to  receive  the  charge  from  the  Indians,  who 
appeared  in  a  large,  force  prepared  for  battle.  Seeing  there  were 
at  least  fifty  Indians  to  one  of  my  men,  I  began  to  prepare  for  the 
worst,  giving  orders  to  be  very  careful  and  let  each  shot  make  one 
Indian  less.  Having  thirty  of  the  best  men  ever  commanded  as 
soldiers  and  knowing  them  to  be  good  shots,  I  felt  much  better 
than  if  they  had  been  unaccustomed  to  fighting  Indians.  Only  a 
few  moments  elapsed  before  I  was  entirely  surrounded  by  the 
red  devils,  who  made  up  their  minds  I  was  going  to  fall  an  easy 
prey,  judging  by  the  slow  manner  they  formed  their  circle  around 
us.  First,  they  made  their  ponies  almost  fly,  then  come  to  a  run, 
a  gallop,  a  trot  and  down  to  a  slow  walk,  all  the  time  getting 
nearer  and  nearer,  until  they  were  within  easy  reach  of  our 
carbines. 

Having  every  man  on  his  knees  with  his  gun  at  a  "ready"  and 
in  a  circle  around  our  horses,  which  were  held  by  six  men,  we 
were  in  a  pretty  good  position  to  defend  ourselves  for  a  while  at 
least.  Just  as  I  was  about  to  give  the  order  "Fire!"  an  Indian 
and  a  half-breed  rode  out  from  the  mass  of  Indians  and  called  out 
"Don't  shoot !  Don't  shoot !"  Taking  a  sergeant,  I  met  them  half 
way  between  the  lines,  when  I  discovered  my  old  friend  Spotted 
Tail,  chief  of  a  large  tribe  of  Northern  Sioux.  The  half-breed 
was  a  Mr.  Lee,  owner  of  a  ranch  on  the  Platte  river,  who  had  a 
number  of  wagons  loaded  with  goods  in  the  Indian  village,  where 
he  was  trading. 

After  shaking  hands  and  saying  "How,  how,"  I  explained  that 
I  was  after  horse-thieves  and  was  not  trying  to  get  up  a  fight  with 
them.  Spotted  Tail  stood  straight  up,  saying,  "My  men  no  steal 
horses  from  white  men.  Cheyennes  steal  horses.  Cheyennes 
thieves  gone  South.  My  men  good.  Fight  no  white  man  unless 
white  man  shoot  first." 

I  then  invited  him  to  select  fifty  of  his  war  chiefs  and  acompany 
me  to  camp,  where  I  introduced  him  to  Captain  Mix,  who  was 


218 

enjoying  a  good  cup  of  coffee,  with  some  hard-tack  and  bacon, 
before  a  fire,  around  which  some  twenty  of  the  Indians  seated 
themselves  and  began  to  smoke  the  pipe  of  peace.  Spotted  Tail 
became  very  talkative,  denounced  the  Cheyennes  to  Captain  Mix 
and  praised  his  own  tribe  as  the  friend  of  the  white  man. 

After  a  powwow  Captain  Mix  gave  each  Indian  some  coffee, 
hard  bread,  tobacco  and  meat,  which  took  nearly  all  we  had,  when 
they  all  shook  hands,  saying,  ''How  !  bye-bye." 

Before  leaving  Mr.  Lee  told  me  that  it  was  just  as  much  as 
Spotted  Tail  could  do  to  control  his  warriors,  as  they  were  so  anx- 
ious to  fight;  that  he  ordered  one  young  chief  shot  on  the  spot 
and  had  several  others  punished,  and  that  some  twenty  or  thirty 
of  the  young  men  left  him  and  threatened  to  kill  us  anyway ;  that 
it  took  great  determination  on  Spotted  Tail's  part  to  prevent  an 
attack  upon  us,  and  that  if  we  had  fired  first  he  could  not  have 
stopped  them  at  all.  Under  the  circumstances,  I  feel  that  I  am  in 
luck. 

Camp  Plains,  C.  T.,  March  i,  1867. 

As  our  rations  are  out  and  we  are  over  one  hundred  miles  from 
our  post,  we  gave  up  the  chase  after  the  horse-thieves  and  started 
back,  making  about  thirty  miles  today,  and  went  into  camp  early 
to  protect  ourselves  from  a  terrible  "Norther,"  which  is  freezing 
us  almost  to  death. 

Camp  Starvation,  C.  T.,  March  2,  1867. 

Not  having  anything  to  eat  for  men  or  horses  last  night  nor 
any  wood,  we  had  to  cut  up  and  burn  two  of  our  wagons  to  keep 
us  from  freezing  to  death,  but  got  an  early  start  this  morning,  and 
have  marched  all  day  through  snow  from  one  to  four  feet  deep, 
with  a  crust  frozen  just  hard  enough  to  let  us  break  through  about 
every  other  step. 

From  nine  to  three  o'clock  this  afternoon  neither  man  nor 
horse  could  be  seen  thirty  feet  away,  and  the  legs  of  the  men  and 
horses  were  so  badly  cut  by  sharp  ice  and  snow  that  our  trail 
could  be  followed  by  the  blood. 

Not  having  recovered  from  the  effects  of  the  previous  fearful 
storm,  I  was  not  able  to  take  my  share  of  the  work  with  Captain 
Mix,  and  it  is  as  much  as  I  can  do  to  keep  breath  in  my  body. 
The  skin  has  peeled  off  entirely  from  my  face  and  nearly  all  over 
my  body, and  I  have  suffered  terribly  during  the  past  twenty  hours. 


2IC) 

We  went  into  this  camp  at  four  o'clock ;  not  a  mouthful  of  anything 
to  eat ;  only  one  wagon  left  to  burn  for  fuel  tonight,  and  as  we  can 
hardly  expect  to  get  away  from  here  alive,  Captain  Mix  has  named 
this  spot  Camp  Starvation. 

We  are  now  quartered  in  the  snow  from  three  to  five  feet  deep. 


Beauvais  Ranch,  C.  T.,  on  Platte  River,  March  3,  1867. 

To  our  surprise  we  found  our  party  all  alive  at  daybreak  this 
morning  and  started  for  this  place.  Fortunately,  a  few  miles' 
march  took  us  out  of  the  deep  snow,  and  we  had  good  weather 
and  fine  marching  all  day. 

We  now  feel  at  this  hour,  ten  o'clock,  as  if  we  were  quartered 
in  a  palace,  so  comfortable,  lying  on  the  dirt  floor  on  our  buffalo 
robes  in  front  of  a  big  blazing  fire  and  drinking  our  black  coffee. 


Fort  Sedgwick,  C.  T.,  March  4,  1867. 

\Ve  got  an  early  start  and  reached  this  post  at  two  o'clock  this 
afternoon,  being  met  by  Colonel  Dodge,  Dr.  Latham  and  a  num- 
ber of  anxious  ones,  who  had  expected  never  to  see  us  alive  again, 
as  they  had  given  us  up. 

The  following  is  an  extract  of  Captain  Mix's  report  upon  our 
return : 

March  5,  1867. 

I  started  at  u  o'clock  this  morning,  the  2ist  ult.,  with  Lieuten- 
ant Armes  and  sixty-four  enlisted  men. 

Mr.  Ray,  ex-officer  of  artillery,  volunteered  his  services,  and 
was  placed  in  command  of  one  three-inch  ordnance  gun. 

The  men  were  furnished  with  eighty  rounds  of  carbine  and  fifty 
rounds  of  pistol  ammunition  per  man,  the  piece  with  fifty-five 
rounds. 

I  gained  the  following  information :  Mr.  More's  stock  was  stolen 
by  "Little  Horse" — Skum-sono-ches-che-to — and  "Horse-in-the- 
Road" — Skum-ko-no  shum-ko — both  of  whom  belong  to  ''Big 
Horse's"  band  of  Cheyennes. 

"Little  Horse"  is  a  son  of  "Big  Hbrse."  They  have  taken  the 
stock  down  to  .the  Arkansas  river,  and  had  passed  eight  days  be- 
fore our  arrival.  I  determined  to  return,  and  then  the  real  diffi- 
culty commenced.  We  left  the  Republican  March  i. 


220 

It  was  only  by  the  most  violent  exercise  that  the  men  could  be 
kept  from  freezing. 

To  add  to  our  difficulties,  we  struck  a  snowdrift,  which  lasted 
all  day,  with  snow  from  two  to  five  feet  deep. 

The  crust  cut  the  horses  cruelly  and  left  a  trail  of  blood  behind 
us.  We  could  not  see  twenty  feet  in  front  of  us. 

At  3  o'clock  this  afternoon  the  men  and  animals  were  unable 
to  move  further,  and  selecting  the  best  shelter  that  the  wind-swept 
plain  afforded,  we  camped  without  forage  for  our  horses. 

Next  morning,  without  breakfast,  in  a  piercing  wind  and  sleet 
in  our  faces,  we  marched. 

Fortunately,  we  got  out  of  the  deep  snow  in  a  short  time,  and 
were  enabled  to  reach  Beauvais  Ranch  at  dark,  where  my  ex- 
hausted men  and  horses  found  shelter  and  food. 

I  cannot  speak  in  too  high  terms  of  the  whole  command,  who, 
through  the  terrible  storm  of  the  2d  and  3d  inst,  displayed  the 
highest  qualities  of  the  soldier — cheerful  submission  to  great 
hardships  and  privations,  and  a  prompt  obedience — qualities 
which  will  ensure  their  honor  on  a  more  glorious,  but  not  more 
trying  field. 

Quite  a  number  of  the  men  had  been  frostbitten  a  short  time 
since  while  on  a  scout  with  Lieutenant  Armes,  and  their  sufferings 
were  very  severe.  Their  comrades  were  untiring  in  their  efforts 
to  alleviate  them. 

The  best  overshoes,  comforts,  etc.,  were  cheerfully  and  without 
orders  given  up  by  the  men,  who  were  themselves  half  perished. 

It  has.  never  been  my  fortune  to  witness  so  many  instances  of 
self-sacrifice.  I  am  happy  to  report  that  no  loss  of  limbs,  or  few, 
if  any,  fingers  or  toes  will  occur  in  the  company,  though  many  of 
the  men  will  suffer  for  some  time. 

The  above  report  is  endorsed  by  Colonel  Dodge,  the  post  com- 
mander, as  follows : 

Respectfully  forwarded  to  Department  headquarters. 

Captain  Mix  deserves  the  greatest  credit  for  his  conduct 
through  the  scout.  But  for  his  care,  foresight  and  energy  many 
men  must  have  been  lost  during  the  terrible  storm  which  he  en- 
countered. I  notice,  with  great  satisfaction,  the  noble  conduct  of 
the  men  while  undergoing  suffering  sufficient  to  daunt  the  stoutest 
heart.  It  is  hardly  an  exaggeration  to  say  no  troop  ever  performed 
service  under  greater  hardships  than  Company  M  experienced  in 
the  scout  of  January,  under  Lieutenant  Armes,  and  under  Captain 
Mix  in  March  of  this  year. 


221 

General  Rodenbaugh,  an  officer  of  the  regiment,  in  writing  up 
its  history,  refers  to  reports  and  official  records  as  follows,  on 
page  380,  in  relation  to  the  rescue  of  the  wood-choppers : 

Among  the  incidents  of  the  year  was  the  scout  made  by  Lieu- 
tenant Armes  in  January  after  a  party  of  Indians  in  the  neighbor- 
hood of  Lauren's  Fork. 

This  scout,  which  resulted  in  the  capture  of  sixty-seven  head  of 
cattle  captured  by  the  Indians,  and  other  Indian  property,  was  ac- 
complished with  the  usual  energy  of  this  officer,  and  under  difficul- 
ties that  can  best  be  understood  by  the  following  quotation  from 
his  report:  "Twenty-seven  of  my  men  are  frozen,  or  in  such  a  con- 
dition that  I  am  afraid  they  will  not  be  fit  for  anything  more  than 
garrison  duty  as  long  as  the  cold  weather  lasts."  Captain  Mix 
endorses  his  report  as  follows:  "Lieutenant  Armes  has  in  this  case, 
as  he  always  does,  carried  out  his  instructions  with  energy  and 
discretion.  The  severe  loss  in  frostbitten  men  is  to  be  regretted, 
but  the  citizens  on  Lauren's  Fork  would  doubtless  have  been  mas- 
sacred but  for  the  assistance  sent.  Nearly  all  the  stock  stolen  was 
recovered." 

The  General  also  publishes  the  following  order  on  page  374  in 
his  history  of  the  regiment,  which  is  considered  one  of  the  most 
complimentary  ever  issued  by  our  Army : 

General  Cook,  in  his  order  on  the  subject,  says:  "Lieut.  Geo.  A. 
Armes,  Second  U.  S.  Cavalry,  being  sent  with  twenty-five  men  of 
his  regiment  from  Fort  Sedgwick  October  23  in  pursuit  of  a  war 
party  of  Sioux  Indians,  which  had  driven  off  the  preceding  day 
several  hundred  head  of  stock,  found  and  followed  their  trail,  un- 
der the  difficulties  of  crossing  two  wide  rivers,  forks  of  the  Platte, 
and  of  darkness,  ninety-eight  miles,  from  5  o'clock  this  morning 
to  1 1  o'clock  at  night. 

"Then  he  surprised  the  party,  instantly  attacked,  killed  and 
wounded  nearly  all  of  their  superior  numbers,  captured  twenty- 
two  of  the  Indian  horses,  burned  their  camp,  and  brought  off  safely 
most  of  the  stolen  stock.  This  young  officer  has  set  a  fine  example 
to  the  Department  of  overcoming  difficulties  that  would  have  dis- 
couraged many  without  loss  of  credit,  of  bold  determination  to 
succeed,  and  of  striking  without  stopping  to  count  his  enemies, 
?nd  he  has  presented  to  the  profession  perhaps  the  greatest  cavalry 
feat  heretofore  recorded." 

General  Grant  immediately  referred  the  order  to  the  Secretary 
of  War  with  the  following  endorsement  thereon  : 


222 

Headquarters  Army  of  the  United  States, 

November  20,  1866. 

Respectfully  forwarded  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  with  the  rec- 
ommendation that  this  officer  be  appointed  Captain  in  the  Tenth 
Cavalry,  instead  of  Capt.  J.  W.  Blunt,  Second  N.  Y.  Cavalry,  rec- 
ommended by  me  in  my  list  of  November  15,  1866. 

(Signed)         U.  S.  GRANT, 

General. 


GENERAL  U.   S.   GRANT. 

This  carried  my  promotion  from  Second  Lieutenant  to  Captain 
over  the  heads  of  several  hundreds  of  my  seniors  in  rank. 

The  following  notice  came  from  Department  headquarters  by 
mail  today,  it  not  being  known  there  at  the  time  it  was  issued 
that  I  had  accepted : 


223 

Headquarters  Department  of  the  Platte, 

Omaha,  Neb.,  February  22,  1867. 
Lieut.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 

Fort  Sedgwick,  C.  T. : 

You  have  been  appointed  a  Captain  in  the  Tenth  Cavalry.  Let 
me  know  if  you  accept,  that  I  may  order  you  before  the  Board. 

(Signed)         C.  C.  AUGER, 
Brevet  Major-General,  U.  S.  A.,  Commanding. 

Also  the  following  order  by  telegraph  : 

Headquarters  of  the  Platte, 

Omaha,  Neb.,  March  5,  1867. 
Special  Order  No.  44. 

Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry,  is  relieved  from  duty 
at  Fort  Sedgwick,  C.  T.,  and  will  proceed  without  delay  to  Wash- 
ington, D.  C.,  and  report  for  examination  to  the  President  of  the 
Examining  Board  for  cavalry  officers  in  that  city. 
By  command  of 

BREVET  MAJOR-GENERAL  AUGER. 

H.  G.  LlTCHFTELD, 

Brevet  Major,  U.  S.  A., 

Aide-de-Camp. 

Omaha,  Neb. 

Being  relieved  from  duty  as  a  Lieutenant,  I  turned  all  my  prop- 
erty over  on  the  5th,  bade  my  friends  good-bye  and  left  Fort 
Sedgwick  on  the  6th  for  this  place  with  several  letters  of  intro- 
duction and  recommendation  from  General  Potter,  Major  Dallas, 
Captain  Spencer  and  Captain  Mix.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Mark  Broad- 
head,  who  have  been  stationed  at  Fort  Laramie  until  the  death  of 
Colonel  Camp,  Quartermaster,  U.  S.  A.,  which  occurred  a  few 
days  ago,  came  part  of  the  way  with  me  in  the  same  ambulance. 
They  are  on  their  way  back  to  Washington.  We  had  a  very  good 
time,  and  my  promotion  seemed  to  be  appreciated  by  my  friends 
as  by  myself. 

We  were  caught  in  a  severe  snowstorm,  but  being  supplied 
with  good  buffalo  robes  and  plenty  of  lunch,  we  did  not  suffer  any 
hardships.  The  whole  country  is  covered  with  snow  and  ice,  and 
we  are  blocked  in  this  city,  as  trains  cannot  come  in  nor  go  out. 
The  Quartermaster  paid  me  mileage  this  afternoon. 


224 


Washington,  D.  C,  March  26,  1867. 

I  am  home  at  last,  after  having  been  blocked  by  the  snow  for 
several  days  en  route  here  and  in  Omaha. 

I  met  Gen.  Napoleon  Buford,  who  handed  me  the  following 
letter  in  acknowledgment  of  his  appreciation  of  me  for  taking- 
such  good  care  of  his  son,  Temple,  who  had  been  my  guest  at 
Fort  Sedgwick : 

Omaha,  March  15,  1867. 
Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes: 

Dear  Sir — A  very  short  acquaintance  has  endeared  you  to  me 
very  much.  Your  commencement  of  life  is  noble.  Your  country 
required  your  services,  and  without  waiting  for  rank  or  position 
you  shouldered  your  musket  and  marched  to  the  front.  Noble- 
minded  men  observed  your  devotion,  and  have  recommended  you 
for  promotion.  Now  a  youth,  you  are  a  Captain  of  cavalry;  you 
have  already  distinguished  yourself. 

Let  all  this  success  make  you  more  prudent  and  laborious,  striv- 
ing only  for  the  true  and  the  right. 

Every  man  is  the  author  of  his  own  education.  If  it  is  in  him  it 
can  be  gotten  out  by  hard  labor  and  perseverance. 

Continue  your  good  habits — your  temperance,  your  modest  de- 
portment. Seek  the  society  of  the  pure,  the  patriotic.  Improve 
your  mind  by  thought  and  the  best  books. 

Your  kindness  to  my  son  has  endeared  you  to  me,  and  while  I 
live  I  will  continue  to  consult  the  records  of  the  Army  to  learn  of 
your  fame,  and  I  will  pray  for  your  welfare. 

N.  B.  BUFORD. 

I  also  met  Gen.  Phil  St.  George  Cook,  commanding  the  De- 
partment of  the  Platte,  and  family  for  the  first  time.  He  seemed 
pleased  to  see  me,  and  I  thanked  him  for  the  complimentary 
orders  he  had  published  in  my  case  for  the  fight  with  the  Sioux 
on  Pumpkin  creek,  D.  T.,  last  fall. 

I  shall  never  forget  the  kindness  he  extended  and  the  promo- 
tion he  has  aided  me  to  receive.  Buying  a  suit  of  citizen's  clothes, 
I  called  on  Gen.  C.  H.  Thompkins,  Assistant  Quartermaster- 
General,  and  Captain  Montgomery,  recorder  of  the  examining 
board,  and  have  come  to  the  conclusion  that  nothing  but  hard 
study  for  a  few  weeks  will  enable  me  to  pass. 


225 

March  28,  1867. 

I  took  a  room  at  the  National  Hotel  yesterday ;  also  called  on 
Gen.  David  Hunter,  president  of  the  examining  board,  who 
seemed  glad  to  see  me. 

Col.  John  G.  Gilmore  called  upon  me  this  evening,  and  is  doing 
all  he  can  to  help  me  along.  I  made  an  application  to  General 
Grant  for  an  extension  of  sixty  days'  delay  in  reporting  before 
the  board,  and  gave  it  to  Major  Leet,  who  said  he  would  let  me 
have  the  General's  action  soon. 

March  29,  1867. 

I  shut  myself  up  in  my  room  to  study,  but  have  had  little  time 
for  that  purpose,  as  so  many  people  have  called  upon  me  today. 
T  also  received  permission  to  delay  reporting  for  examination  for 
thirty  days. 


FRED  GRANT  IN   1867. 

April  4,  1867. 

I  employed  Professor  Williamson  as  instructor.  Fred  D. 
Grant,  son  of  the  General,  called  and  spent  two  hours  or 'more 
with  me  last  night.  I  remained  in  my  room  all  day.  Captain 
Boden,  late  Sixteenth  Virginia  Volunteers,  and  Lieutenant  Roe 
made  me  a  short  visit. 

15 


226 

April  15,  1867. 

Last  evening  Captain  Potts  of  the  Navy  called  and  we  at- 
tended Dr.  Hall's  church.  Lieut.  C.  B.  Stambaugh  spent  five 
hours  studying  with  me,  as  he  is  preparing  to  go  before  the  board 
also. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  April  21,  1867. 

Yesterday  Captain  Potts  and  I  called  on  Secretary  Wm.  H. 
Seward,  who  seemed  as  glad  to  see  me  as  if  I  had  been  his  own 
son. 

April  23,  1867. 

The  professors  have  been  giving  me  their  attention  all  day,  and 
they  are  well  paid,  for  I  do  not  intend  to  fail  in  my  examination 
if  teachers  can  save  me. 

April  28,   1867. 

Yesterday  gave  all  my  time  to  studies  until  two  o'clock,  when 
I  took  Miss  Colby  to  Fort  Whipple  and  Arlington  Heights  in  a 
buggy,  as  I  could  not  induce  her  to  go  on  horseback.  After  our 
return,  at  seven  o'clock  this  evening,  I  called  on  Gen.  David 
Hunter,  president  of  the  board  of  officers  before  whom  I  am  to 
appear  for  examination.  After  asking  a  few  questions,  he  told 
me  to  report  before  the  board  Monday,  so,  instead  of  attending 
church,  I  devoted  my  whole  time  to  study. 

April  30,  1867. 

I  reported  at  ten  o'clock  yesterday  morning  to  General  Hunter, 
and  found  the  other  officers  composing  the  examining  board 
present.  After  an  informal  conference,  I  was  informed  that  they 
would  recommend  me  to  the  War  Department  for  an  extension  of 
leave  for  thirty  days  to  prepare  for  examination. 

May  9,  1867. 

Professor  Phill  has  several  officers  in  his  class  whom  he  is 
preparing  to  pass  the  board,  among  whom  are  Lieutenants  Graf- 
ton  and  Robinson. 

May  14,  1867. 

Yesterday  Professor  Phill  highly  complimented  me  on  my 
progress  with  my  studies.  Afterward  I  called  on  General  Emory, 
one  of  the  members  of  the  board,  who  seems  deeply  interested  in 
my  success.  He  introduced  me  to  his  daughter,  and  I  passed 
a  very  pleasant  evening  with  them. 


227 

May  1 8,  1867. 

Captain  Grafton  and  Lieutenant  Berlin,  who  are  taking  lessons 
with  me  under  Professor  Phill,  came  to  my  room  last  evening, 
where  we  worked  over  our  tasks  like  troopers  until  twelve  o'clock. 

Professor  Phill,  after  examining  me  for  two  hours  today  with- 
out my  missing  a  question,  encouraged  me  by  saying  that  I  need 
not  be  uneasy  about  passing  my  examination,  as  I  would  get 
through  without  any  trouble.  Captain  Grafton,  who  has  re- 
ceived his  appointment  as  Second  Lieutenant  of  the  Twenty-ninth 
Infantry,  called  upon  me  during  the  day  at  three  o'clock.  Miss 
Ida  Kendall  and  I  went  on  horseback  to  the  Soldiers'  Home,  and 
upon  our  return  stopped  at  the  President's  to  listen  to  the  music 
by  the  Marine  Band. 

May  22,  1867. 

Captain  Grafton  called  and  assisted  me  this  forenoon.  This 
afternoon  my  father  called  and  requested  the  loan  of  my  blooded 
mare,  which  I  declined  to  let  him  have  on  the  ground  that  she 
might  throw  him.  He  became  enraged  at  my  thinking  he  was 
not  able  to  ride  any  horse  that  I  could  ride.  I  finally  consented, 
and  assisted  him  in  mounting,  but  within  three  minutes  he  was 
landed  plump  on  the  ground,  receiving  quite  a  severe  jar.  He  is 
all  right  this  evening,  but  I  hardly  think  he  will  attempt  another 
horseback  ride  on  her. 

May  29,  1867. 

This  is  my  twenty-third  birthday,  one  of  the  most  agreeable 
and  pleasant  I  ever  passed,  and  if  I  owned  the  world  and  all  that 
is  in  it  I  could  not  feel  better  than  I  do  tonight.  After  being 
questioned  for  three  long  steady  hours  by  the  members  of  the 
board,  which  consists  of  Gen.  David  Hunter,  Gen.  William  H. 
Emory  and  Gen.  Pike  Graham,  three  of  the  most  distinguished 
and  gallant  cavalry  officers  of  our  Army,  I  was  handed  the  fol- 
lowing : 


228 


S 


mt.    kevfy    wtijitd    ihat  you   liaw   fan   fay 


BVT.  MAJOR  GKNERAL,  U   S.  A., 

PRKSIDEST  OK  EXAMINING  BOARD 

May  30,  1867. 

Reporting  to  the  War  Department,  Gen.  Robert  Williams 
handed  me  my  commission. 

I  do  not  believe  a  commission  was  ever  appreciated  more  than 
this,  since  it  was  given  as  a  reward  of  merit  and  distinguished 
conduct  in  the  field  for  my  success  in  capturing  a  large  amount 
of  stock  and  destroying  an  Indian  village  without  my  using  poli- 
tical influence  or  solicitation.  The  Paymaster  paid  me  to  June  i 
as  Captain  this  afternoon. 

June  i,  1867. 

Have  been  packing  my  effects  and  calling  on  friends  and  bid- 
ding them  good-bye  during  the  day. 

June  8,  1867. 

Yesterday  I  was  engaged  in  closing  up  my  private  affairs  and 
sending  out  invitations  for  a  grand  farewell  party,  which  took 
place  last  evening.  By  nine  o'clock  the  house  and  parlors  were 
crowded,  and  the  dancing  commenced  at  ten  and  was  kept  up 
until  twelve  before  we  sat  down  to  the  table  loaded  with  every 
delicacy  of  the  season  and  plenty  of  champagne. 


229 

Carlisle  Barracks,  Pa.,  June  n,  1867. 

After  bidding  my  friends  good-bye  in  Washington,  I  called  on 
the  Quartermaster,  who  furnished  me  transportation  to  this  post 
for  my  blooded  mare,  who  was  put  in  a  box-car,  and  upon  my 
arrival  she  had  slipped  and  strained  her  back,  and  was  so  badly 
injured  that  she  had  to  be  taken  from  the  car  and  placed  in  a  field, 
and  was  taken  charge  of  by  a  Mr.  Noble,  a  resident  of  this  place. 
Upon  my  reporting  to  the  commanding  officer,  he  placed  the 
following  endorsement  upon  my  order : 

Headquarters  Cavalry  Department, 

Carlisle  Barracks,  Pa.,  June  n,  1867. 

Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry,  reported  in  person 
this  day  in  accordance  with  the  within  instructions. 

(Signed)         F.  VAN  VLTET, 
Capt.  Third  U.  S.  Cav.,  Bvt.  Lieut-Col.,  U.  S.  A., 

Commanding. 

St.  Louis,  Mo.,  June  15,  1867. 

My  stay  at  Carlisle  was  rather  short,  as  I  was  furnished  orders 
to  proceed  without  delay  to  Fort  Leavenworth,  Kansas. 

I  am  now  at  Mrs.  Boylis'  private  boarding-house,  a  stopping- 
place  for  Army  officers.  She  is  a  very  aristocratic  and  pleasant 
lady.  Colonel  Thomas,  Department  Quartermaster,  paid  me 
$87.87  mileage  this  afternoon  on  train  en  route  for  Jefferson 
City,  Mo. 

Jun»  17,  1867. 

This  morning  before  leaving  St.  Louis  I  called  on  General 
Nichols  of  General  Sherman's  staff,  one  of  the  most  elegant  gen- 
tlemen in  the  regular  Army.  After  bidding  him  farewell  I  made  a 
few  purchases  and  left  at  three  o'clock  this  afternoon. 

Fort  Leavenworth,  June  18,  1867. 

I  arrived  here  at  ten  o'clock  this  morning  and  reported  to  Gen- 
eral Hoffman,  Colonel  Third  Infantry,  who  introduced  me  to 
Colonel  Grierson,  and  I  was  assigned  quarters  at  this  post. 

Every  officer  here  is  very  busy  organizing  recruits  into  com- 
panies and  preparing  them  for  the  field  for  active  work  against 
the  Indians. 


230 

Fort  Leavenworth,  Kan.,  June  19,  1867. 

Early  this  morning  I  was  handed  Special  Order  No.  12,  dated 
June  1 8,  1867,  assigning  me  to  duty  at  this  post  and  put  in  charge 
of  sixty  negro  recruits.  First  Lieut.  William  Kennedy  and  Second 
Lieut.  John  A.  Bodamer  assisted  me  in  drilling  them. 

June  22,  1867. 

Four  more  recruits  were  assigned  to  me  this  morning,  and  I 
organized  my  company,  to  be  known  as  F  Company,  which  is 
composed  of  eighty-four  very  good-looking  darkies,  some  of 
whom  are  very  dull  and  stupid. 

June  23,  1867. 

I  issued  arms,  equipments  and  clothing  to  my  company  yester- 
day afternoon,  was  ordered  to  attend  dress  parade  with  my  com- 
pany, and  after  forming  a  line  close  to  the  white  troops,  General 
Hoffman  came  down  and  ordered  them  at  least  ten  or  fifteen  yards 
to  the  left,  saying  he  must  not  bring  my  nigger  troops  so  close 
to  his  white  ones.  General  Grierson  immediately  took  up  for  the 
supposed  right  of  his  darkies,  and  he  and  General  Hoffman 
seemed  to  have  it  pretty  hot  for  a  while. 

June  24,  1867. 

Immediately  after  breakfast  this  morning  I  was  handed  the 
following  order: 

Headquarters  Department  of  the  Missouri, 

Fort  Leavenworth,  Kans.,  June  24,  1867. 
Abstract  5. 
Special  Order  No.  136. 

Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  Company  F,  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry,  will 
proceed  without  delay  by  rail  to  the  terminus  of  the  Union  Pacific 
Railway,  Eastern  Division,  and  from  there  will  march  to  Fort 
Harker,  Kans.  On  his  arrival  at  Fort  Harker,  Captain  Armes  will 
report  to  the  commanding  officer,  District  of  the  Upper  Arkansas, 
for  further  orders.  The  Quartermaster's  Department  will  furnish 
the  necessary  transportation. 

By  command  of 

GENERAL  HANCOCK. 
(Signed)         CHAUNCEY  MCKEEVER, 

Asst.  Adjt.-Gen. 
To  CAPT.  GEORGE  A.  ARMES, 

Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry. 


231 

Topeka,  Kan.,  On  Train,  June  26,  1867. 

I  left  Fort  Leavenworth  at  six  this  morning,  marching  my  com- 
mand to  the  depot,  loaded  them  on  the  train,  having  no  trouble, 
and  am  now  passing  this  city.  All  the  men  are  in  the  best  of 
spirits. 

Fort  Riley,  Kan.,  June  27,  1867. 

Arrived  at  this  post  last  night.  Today  have  been  drawing  ra- 
tions and  forage  and  resting  the  men  and  horses. 

Chapman,  Kan.,  June  28,  1867. 

I  marched  my  company  from  Fort  Riley  to  this  place  and 
loaded  it  on  the  cars.  Left  one  man  sick  at  Fort  Riley.  I  had 
to  put  Clark,  the  transportation  master,  under  guard  because  he 
became  so  unruly. 

Fort  Marker,  Kan.,  June  29,  1867. 

Arrived  here  at  seven  o'clock  this  morning,  reporting  to  Gen. 
A.  J.  Smith,  commanding  district,  and  am  now  in  camp  half  a  mile 
from  the  post  in  tents. 

Camp  Grierson,  Fort  Harker,  Kan.,  June  30,  1867. 

General  Smith  sent  me  word  to  muster  my  own  company,  which 
I  did  from  a  list  of  names  written  in  leadpencil  on  a  piece  of  paper, 
not  having  a  description  list  or  a  muster  roll. 

Indians  were  reported  as  being  seen  near  the  post  this  after- 
noon. 

July  i,  1867. 

I  received  orders  early  this  morning  to  go  on  a  scout,  and  have 
just  returned,  after  a  march  of  about  fifty  miles.  Found  a  good 
many  Indian  pony-tracks  in  sand  crossing  Smoky  river. 

Fort  Harker,  Kan.,  July  2,  1867. 

Have  been  in  camp  most  of  the  day  preparing  for  movement 
in  light  marching  order  in  case  the  Indians  commit  any  depre- 
dations in  this  section.  Dough t  my  brother  William  Edward 
a  nice  Indian  pony,  saddle  and  bridle,  and  have  detailed  a  sold- 
dier  (darkey)  to  wait  on  him.  President  Johnson  having  ap- 
pointed Ed  to  West  Point,  advised  him  to  make  a  visit  out  here 
with  me  for  a  while  before  reporting  there,  as  his  health  has  been 
taxed  by  overwork  at  the  college  which  he  has  just  left,  where 
he  had  been  promoted  to  the  Captaincy  of  the  cadets.  He  greatly 
enjoys  his  pony,  and  expects  to  have  a  good  time  hunting  and 
shooting  buffalo,  Indians,  etc. 


232 


WM.    E.   ARMES. 


Camp  in  the  Field,  Saline  River,  Kan.,  July  3,  1867. 
During  last  night  the  alarm  of  Indians  committing  depreda- 
tions near  here  was  made,  and  Gen.  A.  J.  Smith  ordered  me  out 
with  every  man  I  could  spare.  We  started  at  four  o'clock  this 
morning  with  two  days'  rations,  one  hundred  rounds  of  cartridges 
per  man  and  Wild  Bill  and  Wentworth  as  my  scouts  and  guides. 
After  finding  the  trail,  we  followed  it  until  it  was  too  dark  to  go 
further,  and  are  now  in  camp  with  a  double  guard  around  our 
horses.  Before  starting  this  morning  I  called  my  brother  out  and 
asked  him  if  he  could  defend  himself  with  the  fifteen  men  whom 
I  left  in  the  main  camp.  After  his  assuring  me  he  could  and  that 
he  would  make  a  fort  of  the  sacks  of  forage,  I  bade  him  good-bye. 

Camp  Grierson,  near  Fort  Harker,  Kan.,  July  4,  1867. 
I  returned  this  evening  from  my  scout,  and  after  making  my 
report  to  Gen.  A.  J.  Smith,  he  broke  to  me  the  sad  news  of  the 
death  of  my  brother,  whom  I  had  left  yesterday  morning  in  camp 


233 

in  the  best  of  spirits  and  apparently  in  excellent  health.  He  was 
taken  with  cholera,  and  died  before  three  o'clock  that  afternoon. 
It  was  the  saddest  news  I  could  receive.  He  was  a  great  favorite, 
bound  to  me  not  only  by  the  ties  of  blood,  but  by  more  than  or- 
dinary brotherly  affection.  He  stood  at  the  head  of  his  class,  and 
was  a  favorite  with  all  who  knew  him.  I  feel  that  if  it  had  only 
been  myself  that  was  taken  and  he  left  to  enjoy  the  bright  pros- 
pect before  him  how  much  better  it  would  have  been.  General 
Smith,  who  seems  more  like  a  father  in  his  kind  attentions  to  me 
than  a  commanding  officer,  assured  me  that  every  attention  was 
rendered,  and  both  post  surgeons  and  the  ladies  of  the  post  did 
everything  to  save  him.  I  reached  my  camp  just  in  time  to  see 
his  dear  face  again  before  they  took  him  to  his  grave,  but  was 
unable  to  see  him  buried,  being  overcome  with  grief  and  com- 
pletely prostrated. 

Camp  Davis,  near  Fort  Harker,  Kan.,  July  5,  1867. 

Two  of  my  best  men  were  take  down  with  cholera  this  morn- 
ing, and  1  sent  them  to  the  post  hospital,  immediately  moved  my 
command  and  established  a  new  camp  on  higher  ground.  I  am 
sick  enough  myself  this  evening  to  be  in  bed,  but  will  not  give 
up  the  ship  if  I  can  help  it. 

July  6,  1867. 

Ten  of  my  men  went  on  sick  report  this  morning,  but  the  doc- 
tor seems  confident  of  their  recovery,  as  we  are  now  in  such  a 
healthy  location.  Lieutenant  Bodamer  has  taken  to  his  bed  with 
symptoms  of  cholera. 

Camp  near  Bunker  Hill,  Kan.,  July  9,  1867. 

Just  as  I  sat  down  to  breakfast  this  morning  General  Smith 
sent  orders  for  me  to  take  thirty  men  and  scout  up  the  Smoky 
Hill  river  to  Wilson  creek  to  capture  and  punish  a  war  party  of 
Indians  reported  to  be  depredating  in  that  vicinity.  Wild  Bill, 
my  guide,  reports  fresh  signs  of  Indians  this  evening. 

Camp  Davis,  Kan.,  July  10,  1867. 

I  left  Mr.  King's  ranch  at  daylight  and  went  by  Bunker  Hill, 
crossing  the  Smoky  Hill  river  fifteen  miles  south  and  examining 
its  tributaries  and  every  place  where  Indians  were  likely  to  hide 
or  stop,  returning  at  6  o'clock  this  evening,  reporting  results  to 
General  Smith's  satisfaction. 


234 

July  12,  1867. 

The  news  that  Maj.-Gen.  W.  S.  Hancock  was  coming  this  way 
from  Denver  reached  here  today,  and  I  selected  a  good  escort 
and  rode  out  to  meet  him,  escorting  him  to  the  post,  where  he  is 
now  the  guest  of  General  Smith.  I  was  delighted  to  meet  him, 
and  we  have  just  had  a  long  chat  about  war  times,  etc. 


MAJ-GEN.  W.  S.  HANCOCK. 

July  13,  1867. 

Maj.  John  H.  Page,  Lieuts.  G.  H.  Stouch  and  Wallace,  Third 
Infantry,  dropped  in  to  see  me  this  afternoon,  and  together  we 
called  on  General  Hancock  and  General  Sherman,  who  arrived 
today. 

July  14,  1867. 

I  had  both  companies  of  cavalry  out  on  mounted  inspection  at 
10  o'clock  this  forenoon,  and  was  complimented  by  Generals 
Sherman  and  Hancock  as  to  their  soldierly  appearance.  They 
did  not  give  them  a  general  inspection  more  than  to  witness  their 
movements  while  drilling,  etc. 

July  15,  1867. 

Generals  Sherman  and  Hancock  left  at  n  this  forenoon  for 
Fort  Leavenworth,  Kan.  I  sent  Lieutenant  Bodamer,  with 
thirty-four  men,  on  a  scout  to  King's  Ranch.  He  returned  this 
evening  without  being  able  to  discover  fresh  signs  of  Indians. 
Mrs.  G.  M.  Sternberg,  the  Post  Surgeon's  wife,  who  rendered 


235 

such  kind  attention  and  assistance  to  my  brother  Eddie  in  his 
last  sickness,  and  cared  for  him  as  long  as  life  remained,  died  this 
evening  at  the  post  with  cholera,  which  makes  twenty-three  deaths 
within  the  past  ten  days. 

July  17,  1867. 

I  have  been  drilling  and  preparing  all  the  men  I  could  get  out 
foj  active  service,  and  attended  the  funerals  of  two  more  of  my 
men,  whose  bodies  were  rolled  up  in  blankets  and  buried  near 
camp,  making  seven  of  my  command  buried  within  the  past  ten 
days. 

July  19,  1867. 

Had  my  camp  thoroughly  policed  yesterday,  and  fixed  the 
sick  as  comfortable  as  possible.  Dr.  Squire,  who  attended  my 
brother  during  his  sickness,  and  who  is  so  devoted  to  me  here, 
just  received  orders  to  accompany  the  Thirty-eighth  Infantry  to 
the  field.  He  seems  very  low-spirited  and  superstitious,  and  says 
that  he  never  expects  to  return  alive,  but  will  not  refuse  to  obey 
orders.  The  Thirty-eighth  Infantry,  now  camped  near  the  post, 
received  orders  to  march  to  New  Mexico  tomorrow. 

July  21,  1867. 

Orders  were  sent  to  me  today  to  proceed  to  Fort  Hays,  Kan. 
Going  over  to  the  post  I  had  a  pleasant  chat  with  General  Smith, 
Captain  Hamilton,  Lieutenants  Cook  and  Tom  Custer.  After 
bidding  all  good-bye,  I  returned  and  loaded  wagons  with  every- 
thing necessary  but  tents,  and  am  now  ready  to  pull  out  early  in 
the  morning. 

Fort  Hays,  Kan.,  July  25,  1867. 

Arrived  here  with  my  command  this  morning,  reporting  for 
duty  to  Capt.  Henry  C.  Corbin,  Thirty-eighth  Infantry,  who  is  in 
command.  As  we  both  rank  as  Captains  from  July  28,  1866,  and 
it  being  undecided  who  is  the  senior,  I  went  into  a  separate  camp 
near  the  post  until  the  rank  question  is  settled. 

July  27,  1867. 

I  was  engaged  most  of  yesterday  fixing  up  my  camp,  drawing 
and  issuing  clothing  and  drilling  my  men.  Captain  Hamilton 
and  Lieutenant  Cook,  Seventh  Cavalry,  called  on  me  t9day.  The 
rank  question  being  settled,  he  put  me  on  duty  as  Officer  of  the 
Day,  relieving  Lieutenant  Saxton,  Thirty-eighth  Infantry. 


236 

July  29,  1867. 

I  went  on  duty  at  10  this  morning  as  President  of  a  General 
Court-Martial,  and  tried  two  men  of  Company  C,  Thirty-eighth 
Infantry.  One  of  my  men  died  of  cholera  last  night  and  was 
buried  in  the  prairie  this  afternoon  near  camp. 

July  31,  1867. 

After  breakfast  this  morning  I  ordered  two  more  men  buried, 
who  died  last  night  with  cholera.  Captain  Corbin  inspected  my 
company  at  5  o'clock  this  afternoon. 

Campbell's  Camp,  August  i,  1867. 

At  2  o'clock  in  the  afternoon,  while  taking  an  inventory,  report 
came  that  Indians  were  near.  I  immediately  mounted  my  com- 
mand and  started  after  them,  and  found  the  bodies  of  seven  men 
(white),  who  had  just  been  killed  and  scalped.  From  the  ap- 
pearance of  the  trail  I  am  now  on  there  are  more  Indians  than  I 
can  handle  with  my  little  squad,  and  I  am  awaiting  reinforce- 
ments, which  I  sent  after  a  few  minutes  ago. 

Fort  Hays,  Kan.,  August  2,  1867. 

I  sent  a  request  to  the  post  commander  last  night  to  send  me 
thirty  good  men  and  a  howitzer  at  once,  as  I  could  not,  with  my 
small  force,  whip  the  Indians  likely  to  be  encountered.  No  reply 
having  met  me  by  daylight  this  morning,  I  started  to  follow  the 
Indian  trail,  and  by  9  o'clock,  after  a  march  of  about  twenty-five 
miles,  discovered  Indians,  and  soon  after  was  obliged  to  dis- 
mount my  men  and  fight  them  on  foot.  I  managed  to  get  back 
alive,  although  badly  wounded,  and  will  make  my  report  in  the 
morning.  I  have  just  learned  tonight  that  the  reinforcements  I 
requested  were  immediately  sent  to  me  in  command  of  Lieut.  J. 
M.  Kelly  of  the  Thirty-eighth  Infantry,  who,  after  following  the 
Indian  trail  a  short  distance,  said  he  had  cramps  in  the  stomach, 
and  returned  to  the  post,  when  Captain  Corbin  ordered  another 
officer  of  the  Thirty-eighth  Infantry  to  take  his  place,  but  he 
was  too  late  to  render  me  any  service. 

Dr.  Buchanan  probed  my  wound  and  extracted  the  bullet,  and 
is  now  giving  me  every  necessary  attention.  He  tells  me  the 
bone  is  not  injured,  and  by  careful  nursing  and  attention  I  will 
soon  be  up  and  ready  for  duty. 


237 

August  3,  1867. 
The  following  is  my  official  report  sent  in  today : 

New  Fort  Hays,  Kans.,  August  3,  1867. 
Capt.  H.  C.  Corbin, 

Thirty-eighth  Infantry, 

Commanding  Post: 

Captain — I  have  the  honor  to  submit  the  following  report: 

In  compliance  with  instructions  received  from  you,  I  left  this 
camp  at  3  o'clock,  the  afternoon  of  the  ist  hist,  with  forty-four 
mounted  men,  and  proceeded  as  far  as  Campbell's  Camp,  thirteen 
miles  down  the  railroad,  where  I  saw  seven  of  his  men,  who  had 
just  been  killed  by  the  Indians,  and  learned  that  they  had  gone  up 
the  north  branch  of  Big  Creek,  which  I  followed  eighteen  miles, 
but  could  not  find  the  trail,  as  the  night  was  dark. 

I  returned  to  Campbell's,  on  the  opposite  side,  and  dispatched 
six  men  to  the  post  for  an  additional  support  of  thirty  men  and 
one  piece  of  artillery.  I  intended  to  start  at  daybreak  north  for  the 
Saline,  where  the  Indians  were  supposed  to  have  gone. 

I  waited  four  hours,  and  no  men  came,  so  I  started  out  at  day- 
break, the  2d  inst.,  with  thirty-four  mounted  men,  leaving  four 
sick.  I  reached  the  Saline  (fifteen  miles)  at  8  o'clock  this  morn- 
ing, which  I  followed  up  twelve  miles,  where  I  was  met  and  at- 
tacked by  about  seventy-five  Indians. 

I  dismounted  my  command,  threw  out  some  flankers  to  save 
my  horses,  and  gave  orders  to  advance  on  up  the  creek  for  the 
purpose  of  recapturing  the  stolen  stock,  but  in  ten  minutes  I  was 
surrounded,  and  fires  were  built  all  around  the  command  on  the 
tops  of  the  bluff. 

I  kept  my  flankers  well  out,  and  advanced  until  I  saw  what  was 
supposed  to  be  a  herd  of  buffalo,  but  close  investigation  discov- 
ered them  to  be  Indians  coming  to  the  support  of  those  around  me. 
I  gave  the  command,  "To  the  left,  march!"  and  started  for  the 
post.  In  half  an  hour  I  was  entirely  surrounded.  A  few  Indians 
at  a  time  would  occasionally  dash  through  the  command. 

Sergeant  Christy  was  shot  through  the  head  and  killed  while 
getting1  his  men  in  place. 

My  first  sergeant,  Thornton,  Corporals  Spriggs  and  Posy  had 
their  horses  shot  from  under  them.  Three  more  horses  were 
wounded,  but  I  managed  to  get  them  into  camp. 

The  Indians  followed  about  fifteen  miles,  during  which  time  at 
least  2000  shots  were  fired  at  us,  with  very  little  effect. 

The  only  reason  I  can  give  for  their  being  such  poor  marksmen 
is  that  they  had  not  become  accustomed  to  the  use  of  our  new  fire- 
arms. The  most  of  them  seemed  to  be  armed  with  the  improved 
Spencer  carbine,  others  with  rifles  and  revolvers. 

Very  few  arrows  were  shot  at  the  command. 


239 

I  was  wounded  in  the  hip  by  a  rifle  ball.  When  this  was  gener- 
ally known  the  men  became  nearly  uncontrollable;  some  fired  all 
their  ammunition  away  at  random,  and  rushed  to  me  with  the  re- 
port that  they  were  out.  Being  unable  to  walk  or  stand  up,  I  was 
put  on  my  horse,  and  then  ordered  every  man  back  to  his  place  on 
the  flank  and  rear  who  was  without  ammunition,  so  as  to  give  the 
Indians  the  impression  we  were  well  supplied  and  not  alarmed. 

With  the  assistance  of  Lieutenant  Bodamer  and  my  two  guides 
(Mr.  Becker  and  Mr.  Brink)  we  succeeded  in  keeping  the  men  in 
their  places  by  sending  them  back  without  ammunition  as  fast  as 
they  came  in;  others  took  warning  and  did  not  waste  their  supply, 
and  finall  became  cool. 

Xo  man  was  allowed  to  ride  except  the  sick,  who  led  the  horses; 
in  that  way  the  command  was  saved. 

Sixty-four  miles  were  marched  from  the  time  of  leaving  Camp- 
bell's Camp  until  my  return  to  this  post  last  night. 

Total  number  of  miles  marched  since  3,  the  afternoon  of  the  ist 
inst,  1 13,  without  rations  or  forage.  It  is  my  opinion,  as  well  as  of 
those  who  were  with  me,  that  we  were  surrounded  by  at  least  350 
to  400  Indians,  of  whom  six  were  killed  and  several  wounded  while 
making  dashes  through  the  command,  but  were  soon  picked  up, 
tied  to  their  horses  and  hurried  to  the  rear,  thus  preventing  the 
capture  of  them  or  their  horses  or  ponies. 

Two  white  men  or  half-breeds  were  with  the  Indians,  who  took 
an  active  part,  but  were  very  careful  not  to  dash  through  the  com- 
mand. I  had  fifty  shots  fired  at  them,  but  to  no  effect.  They  were 
mounted  on  the  finest  and  most  active  horses  I  ever  saw.  It  is  my 
opinion  that  a  large  number  of  Indians  are  encamped  between  the 
Saline  and  the  Solomon,  or  on  the  Solomon,  where  any  amount  of 
stolen  stock  could  be  recaptured,  provided  a  sufficient  force  could 
«'o  after  them. 

It  would  not  be  safe  to  send  a  less  number  than  200  or  300  well- 
armed  and  equipped  men,  as  the  country  "which  they  would  operate 
in  is  so  broken  up,  full  of  gullies,  canons  and  hills,  that  it  would 
take  a  large  force  to  drive  them  out. 

It  is  the  greatest  wonder  in  the  world  that  my  command  and 
myself  escaped  being  massacred,  as  we  had  to  retreat  fifteen  miles 
through  a  hilly  country,  full  of  canons,  rocks  and  gullies,  fighting 
our  way  foot  by  foot,  the  Indians  dodging  from  one  gully  and  rock 
to  others  and  firing  on  us  at  every  chance. 

Great  credit  is  due  Lieutenant  Bodamer,  Mr.  Becker  and  Mr. 
Brink  for  the  coolness  and  daring  they  displayed  on  several  occa- 
sions when  the  Indians  dashed  upon  us.  If  it  had  not  been  for 
their  coolness  and  efficient  aid  not  one  of  the  command  would  have 
returned. 

I  would  recommend  that  a  strong  force  be  dispatched  to  that 
section  to  drive  them  out  as  soon  as  possible,  as  they  have  formed 


240 

the  opinion  that  they  can  whip  any  force  sent  against  them. 
I  am,  Captain, 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES, 
Capt.  Commanding  Co.  F,  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry. 

(Endorsement  of  Post  Commander.) 

Headquarters  Post, 

New  Fort  Hays,  Kansas,  August  3,  1867. 
Lieutenant  T.  B.  Weir, 

A.  A.  A.  Gen.  Dist.  Up.  Ark.: 

Sir — I  enclose  herewith  the  report  of  Captain  Armes  of  his  en- 
gagement yesterday,  which  tells  the  whole  tale.  The  reinforce- 
ments he  speaks  of  wrere  sent  him,  but  did  not  reach  his  camp  until 
he  had  left  some  thirty  minutes.  It  consisted  of  some  twenty-five 
mounted  infantry  and  one  howitzer,  manned  under  command  of 
Sergeant  Pittman,  "C"  Co.,  Thirty-eighth  Infantry. 

vSergeant  Pittman  has  just  returned  to  camp.  He  went  up  the 
north  fork  of  Big  Creek  until  he  struck  a  branch  of  the  Saline.  He 
came  on  a  party  of  some  fifty  Indians;  he  fired  three  shells  into 
them,  when  they  scattered  in  every  direction,  leaving  much  of  the 
debris  of  their  camp  behind,  but  nothing  of  any  importance.  The 
Indians  have  been  seen  in  small  parties  in  the  vicinity  of  the  fort 
today.  We  are  prepared  for  any  further  movements  they  may 
make.  To  act  on  the  offensive  we  must  have  more  men.  I  can 
protect  the  post  and  the  railroad  with  what  I  have,  but  cannot 
make  any  expedition  or  movement  against  the  enemy  to  an  advan- 
tage. That  Captain  Armes  did  all  he  could  to  recapture  the  stock 
no  one  here,  either  citizen  or  soldier,  doubts.  For  doing  the  work 
and  moving  his  command  as  he  did  he  deserves  great  credit,  and 
any  reward  our  common  superiors  may  have  in  store  for  the  meri- 
torious I  hope  may  be  bestowed  on  him.  I  most  heartily  concur 
in  Captain  Armes'  recommendation  of  Lieutenant  Bodamer,  as 
also  Mr.  Becker. 

I  have  noticed  the  conduct  of  Mr.  Becker  for  some  time,  and 
have  been  much  pleased  with  him.  He  is  a  young  man  of  excep- 
tionable habits,  of  education,  and  seems  to  be  in  every  way  well 
fitted  for  a  commission  in  the  Army,  inasmuch  as  he  served  as  an 
officer  of  infantry  during  the  war.  I  would  recommend  that  he  be 
appointed  to  that  branch  of  the  service. 
I  am,  Lieutenant, 

Very  respectfully, 
(Signed)         H.  C.  CORBIN, 

Capt.  Thirty-eighth  Infantry, 

Commanding  Post. 


24 1 

P.  S. — I  would  name,  among  the  difficulties  encountered  by 
Captain  Armes,  that  six  of  his  men  were  attacked  by  cholera  dur- 
ing the  fight,  and  had  to  be  strapped  to  their  horses  to  be  got  off 
the  field. 

August  4,  1867. 

Lieutenant  Bodamer  is  commanding  my  company  and  marched 
it  on  dress  parade  this  afternoon.  Dr.  Buchanan  allowed  me  to 
sit  up  a  portion  of  the  day.  Since  he  got  the  rifle  ball  out  of  my 
hip  I  am  not  in  so  much  pain  as  I  was,  except  at  times,  and  feel 
as  if  I  would  like  to  go  on  another  Indian  raid  if  an  opportunity 
should  occur. 

Camp  Rose,  Kan.,  Western  Union  P.  R.,  August  5,  1867. 

In  spite  of  the  doctor's  protest,  I  started  out  with  forty  men  for 
Sharp's  camp  to  try  and  punish  a  war  party  of  Indians,  who  are 
reported  as  having  murdered  several  emigrants  and  stolen  a  large 
amount  of  stock  in  that  vicinity. 

I  had  to  ride  in  my  ambulance  most  of  the  day  on  account 
of  weakness  and  pain  from  my  wound,  but  am  determined  not 
to  remain  in  camp  if  it  is  possible  for  me  to  punish  this  band  of 
Indians. 

Camp  near  Fort  Hays,  Kan.,  August  6,  1867. 

I  rode  along  the  line  of  the  railroad  today  and  let  the  workmen 
see  I  was  on  the  watch  for  Indians,  which  encouraged  them  to  go 
on  with  their  work.  As  I  had  not  enough  men  to  follow  the  In- 
dians any  distance  from  the  railroad,  I  returned  here  this  even- 
ing. My  wound  is  giving  me  a  great  deal  of  pain,  but  the  doctor 
gave  me  some  medicine  which  relieved  it. 

August  7,  1867. 

Although  I  went  out  on  a  short  scout,  I  have  not  been  able  to 
assume  command  of  my  company.  Colonels  Wicks  and  Sharp 
came  from  their  camp  thirty  miles  west  of  this  post,  and  requested 
help  to  go  after  the  Indians,  who  stole  thirty-eight  of  their  horses 
and  mules  yesterday.  No  one  can  be  spared  from  the  post  at 
present.  My  wound  is  much  better  tonight,  and  I  am  anxious  to 
get  out  with  a  good  command  of  cavalry  large  enough  to  whip 
the  red  devils. 

16 


242 

August  8,  1867. 

Captain  Corbin  let  Colonel  Wickes,  engineer  of  the  road,  have 
fifteen  men  as  an  escort  to  protect  him  in  his  camp,  and  he  had  not 
proceeded  more  than  four  or  five  miles  when  he  was  attacked  by 
a  party  of  Indians  and  had  to  return.  Major  Moore,  with  four 
good  companies  of  the  Eighteenth  Kansas  Cavalry,  are  ordered 
here  to  protect  this  line.  The  hospital  steward  came  over  to 
dress  my  wound  today,  and  I  am  much  better. 

August  n,  1867. 

I  moved  about  so  much  yesterday  that  the  doctor  required  me 
to  lie  in  bed  all  day.  I  have  not  been  able  to  transact  any  official 
business,  but  he  encourages  me  by  saying  a  little  quiet  rest  will 
make  me  all  right  soon. 

August  12,  1867. 

I  insisted  on  reporting  for  duty,  and  took  command  of  my  com- 
pany this  morning,  although  I  am  very  weak,  but  there  is  such  a 
good  chance  for  me  to  do  something,  I  am  determined  to  run 
some  risks  without  regard  to  consequences. 

Camp  Barker,  on  Saline  River,  August  14,  1867. 

As  the  Indians  are  divided  in  Avar  parties  all  around  us,  I  was 
ordered  to  start  out  last  night  with  my  company,  F,  Tenth  United 
States  Cavalry,  and  Companies  B  and  C  of  the  Eighteenth  Kan- 
sas Volunteer  Cavalry,  commanded  by  Captains  Barker  and  Jen- 
ness  of  the  Eighteenth  Cavalry.  We  marched  thirty  miles  on  one 
stretch  and  tried  to  surprise  the  Indians  in  their  camp,  but  failed 
to  find  any  signs  so  far,  although  I  have  marched  sixty  miles 
since  last  night. 

Camp  Price,  August  16,  1867. 

I  marched  my  command  twenty-six  miles  since  last  night,  and 
am  now  drying  some  buffalo  meat  in  order  that  I  may  follow  the 
trail  in  light  marching  order  and  surprise  the  Indians  if  possible. 

Camp  Wickes,  on  the  Union  Pacific  Railroad,  Thirty-five 

Miles  West  of  Fort  Hays,  Kan.,  August  17,  1867. 
I  discovered  a  very  large  trail  of  Indians  during  the  day,  and  it 
will  be  necessary  to  have  more  men  and  rations  to  make  a  suc- 
cessful pursuit.  I  called  for  two  volunteers  to  go  to  the  post, 
forty-five  miles  east  of  this  place,  with  a  letter  requesting  the  post 
commander  to  send  as  many  men  as  he  could  possibly  spare,  but 


243 

as  so  many  men  have  been  killed  lately  by  the  Indians,  there  seems 
to  be  no  response  to  my  request.  Knowing  it  to  be  almost  cer- 
tain death  to  them  or  murder  for  me  to  order  messengers  to  pro- 
ceed with  my  letter  to  the  post,  I  took  one  man  as  my  orderly, 
and  leaving  Captain  Barker  in  command,  started  at  sundown  for 
the  post,  in  spite  of  my  wound  being  so  painful  that  I  could 
scarcely  sit  on  my  horse. 

McDonald's  Camp,  near  Saline  River,  Kan.,  August  18,  1867. 

I  reached  Fort  Hays  about  ten  o'clock  last  night,  and  ordered 
five  wagons  loaded  with  forage  and  rations  for  my  command; 
changed  horses,  and  reached  this  camp  at  eight  this  morning, 
riding  ninety-five  miles  during  the  night. 

Major  Elliott,  with  his  command  of  the  Seventh  Cavalry,  who 
was  in  camp,  agreed  to  go  north  to  the  Republican  river  and  as- 
sist me  in  bagging  the  Indians,  whose  trail  I  reported  to  him  as 
having  gone  in  that  direction,  so  if  Major  Moore's  command  and 
I  reached  the  Republican  river  at  the  same  time  our  three  com- 
mands can  clean  the  Indians  out  entirely  in  a  short  time. 

Camp  Corbin,  on  Saline  River,  Kan.,  August  19,  1867. 
I  picked  out  seventy-five  of  the  best  men  and  horses  in  my 
command  and  followed  the  trail.  Sent  Lieutenant  Price's  Eigh- 
teenth Kansas  Cavalry  in  charge  of  the  wagons  and  the  rest  of 
the  command  to  a  designated  point  on  the  Solomon  river. 
Marched  eighteen  miles  today  very  cautiously. 

Camp  A.  J.  Smith,  Solomon  River,  August  20,  1867. 

I  started  out  to  follow  the  trail  at  nine  o'clock  last  night.  Have 
hid  my  command  in  a  deep  ravine  during  the  day,  so  the  Indians 
will  not  discover  it,  and  will  march  out  again  tonight. 

Camp  Price,  Beaver  Creek,  August  21,  1867. 
I  left  Solomon  river  last  night  at  six  o'clock,  marched  ten  or 
fifteen  miles  and  went  into  camp.  Starting  out  at  two  o'clock  this 
morning,  an  Indian  was  discovered  at  sunrise.  He  fired  at  one 
of  my  advanced  guards,  when  I  at  once  galloped  up  and  soon 
became  engaged  with  a  war  party  of  several  Indians.  We  dis- 
mounted, and  I  placed  my  men  around  the  horses,  requiring  them 


244 

to  lie  down  and  receive  charge  after  charge  by  the  Indians,  who 
were  driven  back  by  the  volleys  of  my  men  as  they  dashed  up 
to  us. 

By  a  well-directed  fire  I  held  my  ground  until  sundown,  when 
I  found  that  my  first  sergeant,  Thornton,  had  been  shot  through 
the  left  leg  below  the  knee,  breaking  it  so  that  he  could  not  stand 
up  at  all.  Ten  other  men  were  badly  wounded. 

I  moved  to  this  place,  about  ten  miles  from  where  the  firing 
took  place. 

Beaver  Creek,  Kan.,  August  22,  1867. 

Marched  ten  or  twelve  miles  during  last  night,  and  early  this 
morning  came  to  my  wagons,  in  charge  of  Lieut.  Price,  who  was 
also  surrounded  by  Indians.  Found  Captain  Jenness  in  the  same 
predicament. 

This  brings  all  our  forces  together.  Several  of  their  men  were 
wounded,  but  I  feel  much  better  now  that  we  are  in  supporting 
distance.  I  am  sorry  to  say,  however,  that  in  spite  of  my  deploy- 
ing my  men  and  sending  scouts  as  far  out  as  we  dare,  we  have  not 
been  able  to  discover  the  least  sign  of  Majors  Elliott  and  Moore, 
who  were  expected  to  co-operate  with  us.  If  they  had  come  to  my 
rescue  according  to  agreement  we  would  have  won  one  of  the 
grandest  victories  ever  known  in  this  country  and  captured  the 
entire  Indian  village,  as  it  is  located  not  more  than  four  or  five 
miles  from  where  I  was  engaged  the  first  day. 

Solomon  River,  Kan.,  August  23,  1867. 

After  dark  last  night  I  moved  several  miles  nearer  the  post,  and 
at  daybreak  this  morning  was  entirely  surrounded  by  Indians. 
It  was  impossible  for  me  to  move  during  the  day,  and  I  had  all 
I  could  do  to  fight  and  keep  them  off  the  best  way  I  could. 

Counting  up  the  killed  and  wounded  tonight  I  found  that 
thirty-five  have  been  killed  and  wounded  during  the  past  three 
days  out  of  the  seventy  who  were  engaged  in  the  fight. 

Following  is  the  official  report  now  (1899)  on  file  in  the  War 
Department : 

New  Fort  Hays,  Kansas,  August  24,  1867. 

S~^  ,  T  T  /~^          /— »  1       •  ' 

Capt.  H.  C.  Corbin, 

Thirty-eighth  U.  S.  Infantry, 

Commanding  Post  New  Fort  Hays: 


245 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  report  that,  in  obedience  to  S.  O.  No. 
71,  dated  headquarters  New  Fort  Hays,  Kansas,  August  12,  1867, 
I  assumed  command  of  Companies  B  and  C,  First  Battalion, 
Eighteenth  Kansas  Cavalry,  under  command  of  Capt.  E.  A.  Bar- 
ker, Eighteenth  Kansas  Cavalry,  and  Company  F,  Tenth  U.  S. 
Cavalry;  marched  to  the  Saline  river,  and  followed  the  course  of 
the  stream  west  until  I  met  Major  Moore,  commanding  Companies 
A  and  D,  Eighteenth  Kansas  Cavalry,  coming  down,  about  4 
o'clock  on  the  I4th.  We  decided  to  march  to  the  Solomon.  Major 
Moore  went  to  the  northwest  and  I  to  the  northeast;  we  were  to 
meet  each  other  on  the  Solomon. 

I  followed  the  Solomon  forty  miles,  examining  all  its  tributaries 
thoroughly. 

Failing  to  find  Major  Moore,  I  took  a  southwest  course,  intend- 
ing to  come  to  Monument  Station  and  scout  down  the  Smoky, 
but  on  the  I7th,  finding  a  very  large  trail  running  northwest,  I  fol- 
lowed it. 

After  coming  to  the  Saline,  I  halted  my  command,  forty-five 
miles  from  Fort  Hays,  and  rode  with  three  men  as  an  escort  into 
Fort  Hays,  and  ordered  up  four  wagons  with  forage  and  one  with 
rations,  and  took  twenty-two  dismounted  cavalry  as  guard  to  train. 
Rejoined  my  command  on  the  evening  of  the  i8th,  and  on  the 
1 9th  started  on  the  trail,  when  I  started  to  Beaver  creek,  seventy 
miles.  I  then  halted  to  wait  for  Captain  Jenness  and  several  scouts 
whom  I  had  sent  out  for  Indian  signs. 

Reached  Beaver  Creek  9  A.  M.  on  the  2ist.  While  eating  break- 
fast one  of  my  videttes  was  attacked  by  one  Indian.  Supposing 
more  to  be  very  near,  I  at  once  pushed  on,  leaving  my  wagons  in 
charge  of  Lieutenant  Price  and  sixty-five  men  of  the  Eighteenth 
Kansas,  with  orders  to  come  on  as  fast  as  possible  to  the  Republi- 
can and  to  await  further  orders. 

Fearing  he  would  tollow  directly  after  me,  I  sent  Sergeant  Car- 
penter, Eighteenth  Kansas,  and  Sergeant  Johnson  of  Company 
F,  Tenth  Cavalry,  back  with  instructions  to  follow  Beaver  creek 
down  eight  miles  before  they  crossed. 

Before  they  had  proceeded  three  miles  they  met  Captain  Jen- 
ness,  Eighteenth  Kansas  Cavalry,  and  scouts,  whom  I  had  sent  out 
that  morning.  Captain  Jenness  assumed  command  of  the  party 
'(twenty-nine)  men. 

Seeing  the  Indians  circling  around,  he  decided  to  attempt  to 
overtake  me,  but  failed,  as  he  was  attacked  by  too  many  Indians. 
His  report  is  as  follows: 

"During  my  forward  movement  I' was  attacked  at  3  o'clock  this 
afternoon  by  about  300  Indians." 

I  sent  Captain  Barker  to  the  left  with  half  of  the  command  to 
make  a  charge  on  the  largest  portion. 


246 

Before  he  had  proceeded  100  yards  I  discovered  reinforcements 
of  Indians  coming  from  the  northwest,  and  found  it  necessary  to 
place  my  animals  in  the  nearest  ravine  and  throw  my  men  to  the 
right,  left,  front  and  rear,  which  was  done  just  in  time  to  save  my 
stock  by  repelling  a  charge  of  the  Indians  made  just  as  I  had  dis- 
mounted. The  Indians  fought  me  from  3  to  9  o'clock  P.  M.  San- 
tan-ti,  in  full  uniform,  on  a  beautiful  gray  horse,  sounded  the 
charge  with  his  bugle  at  least  a  dozen  times,  whooping  and  yell- 
ing and  endeavoring  to  get  his  men  to  charge  into  the  ravine,  but 
only  getting  them  near  enough  to  have  at  least  twenty  of  his  sad- 
dles emptied  at  a  volley  and  a  dozen  ponies  killed  and  wounded. 

Under  cover  of  the  darkness  I  attempted  to  find  the  rest  of  the 
command.  Reaching  Eeaver  creek  at  4  o'clock  the  morning  of  the 
22d,  and  seeing  no  signs  of  the  wagons,  I  halted  until  sunrise  to 
rest  my  exhausted  men;  then  followed  the  creek  up  two  miles,  and 
found  Lieutenants  Price  and  Thomas,  Eighteenth  Kansas  Volun- 
teers, with  the  wagons,  encamped  in  a  ravine,  all  safe,  but  entirely 
surrounded  by  Indians,  in  groups  of  fifty  or  more,  evidently  trying 
either  to  starve  them  out  or  to  seize  an  opportunity  to  charge  and 
run  off  the  stock. 

I  soon  learned  that  Captain  Jenness  was  nearby  in  a  helpless 
condition.  I  immediately  sent  out  a  sufficient  force  to  bring  him 
and  his  wounded  into  camp.  The  Indians  continued  charging  and 
fighting  until  4  o'clock  in  the  afternoon,  when  I  mounted  twenty 
men,  which  was  all  I  could  raise,  and  charged  on  the  Indians,  driv- 
ing them  across  the  creek,  but  found  it  policy  to  get  back  to  camp 
as  soon  as  possible,  as  about  300  or  400  commenced  circling 
around,  trying  to  cut  me  off  from  camp.  It  is  my  honest  opinion 
that  not  less  than  fifty  Indians  were  killed  and  150  wounded.  Sev- 
enty cavalry  are  as  many  as  I  had  to  oppose  at  least  800  Indians. 

Lieutenant  Price  had  sixty-five  men  with  the  wagon  train ;  Cap- 
tain Jenness  had  twenty-nine  men.  Total  strength  of  the  command, 
164  men,  divided  in  three  separate  detachments,  attacked  by  vari- 
ous bands  of  Indians. 

About  4  o'clock  in  the  afternoon,  on  the  23d,  several  Indians 
came  toward  us  from  among  about  TOO,  waving  a  white  flag.  I 
sent  out  my  guides  with  a  white  handkerchief  tied  to  a  stick,  with 
instructions  to  receive  the  messenger  and  ascertain  what  he 
wished,  and,  if  necessary,  to  let  me  know. 

The  Indians  came  near  enough  to  recognize  the  scout,  and 
called  him  by  name,  cursing  him,  and  one  of  them  fired  his  pistol 
at  him.  At  the  same  time  several  Indians  started  out  from  among 
those  behind,  carrying  a  red  flag,  singing  out  in  plain  English, 
"Come  here,  come  here,  you  sons  of  guns;  we  don't  want  to  fight 
the  niggers;  we  want  to  fight  you  white  sons  of  guns,"  etc. 

The  guides  reported  that  they  recognized  San-tan-ti,  Roman- 
Nose,  Charlie  Bent  and  other  prominent  chiefs. 


247 

In  my  opinion  "San-tan-ti"  considers  himself  to  be  in  command 
of  the  district. 

While  returning  for  rations  on  the  night  of  the  i8th,  I  met  Ma- 
jor Elliott,  commanding  battalion  Seventh  U.  S.  Cavalry,  who 
partly  agreed  to  start  on  the  morning  of  the  iQth  for  the  Republi- 
can and  co-operate  with  me.  On  no  other  condition  would  I  have 
returned  so  far  with  so  small  a  force.  Supposing  he  and  Major 
Moore,  Eighteenth  Kansas  Volunteers,  to  be  in  my  vicinity  gave 
me  confidence  to  push  forward,  and  had  they  co-operated  with  me, 
might  have  recaptured  1200  or  1500  head  of  stolen  stock. 

1  believe  that  large  numbers  of  Indians  may  be  found  on  the 
tributaries  near  the  North  Forks  of  the  Republican,  and  from  ap- 
pearances they  intend  to  move  north  of  the  Platte. 

While  returning  to  this  post  I  met  Major  Elliott,  with  companies 
of  cavalry,  going  towards  the  scene  of  our  recent  operations,  and 
if  a  force  could  be  sent  from  the  Platte,  at  least  2000  head  of  stock 
could  be  captured. 

I  would  recommend  that  if  pursuit  of  Indians  be  continued  on 
the  plains,  a  temporary  post  for  supplies  be  established  near  the 
North  and  South  Forks  of  the  Republican. 

It  gives  me  pleasure  to  commend  to  the  favorable  notice  of 
the  commanding  General  the  following  officers,  guides  and  en- 
listed men,  who,  by  their  cool  determination  and  exhibition  of 
courage  and  perseverance  under  danger  the  most  trying,  contrib- 
uted greatly  to  the  salvation  of  the  command: 

Capt.  E.  A.  Barker,  Captain  Jenness,  Second  Lieutenant  Rey- 
nolds, First  Lieutenant  Thomas,  First  Lieutenant  Price,  Company 
B,  Eighteenth  Kansas  Volunteer  Cavalry;  Second  Lieut.  John  A. 
Bodamer,  Company  F, Tenth  U.S. Cavalry,  whom  I  recommended 
for  brevet  commision  in  last  report  for  determination  to  succeed; 
Asst.  Surg.  R.  Westerling,  U.  S.  A.;  P.  A.  Becker,  whom  I  rec- 
ommend for  commission  in  another  report;  A.  S.  Philly,  scout; 
First  Sergt.  F.  M.  Stall,  Co.  B;  Sergts.  J.  Springer,  G.  A.  Camel, 
Corp.  James  Howell,  Privates  E.  Worley  of  Co.  C,  and  J.  Gordon, 
Co.  B,  Eighteenth  Kansas  Volunteer  Cavalry;  Sergt.  C.  A.  Crum- 
ble and  Corp.  Batter  of  Co.  F,  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry. 

The  whole  command  acted  nobly,  and  set  a  fine  example  for 
other  Kansas  volunteers  to  follow. 

I  reached  Fort  Hays  at  5  o'clock  P.  M.  today. 

The  following  is  a  list  of  the  wounded,  two  of  whom  died  and 
were  buried  on  our  way  in : 

Capt.  G.  B.  Jenness,  Co.  C;  Sergeant  Fannagan,  Co.  B;  Privates 
F.  Anderson,  William  Hillory,  F,  Forrester,  J.  Gordon  and  Hayes 
of  Co.  B;  Sergts.  J.  A.  Carpenter,  J.  H.  T.  Springer,  J.  A.  Camp- 
bell, Corporal  Towell,  Private  William  Sotherland,  Eighteenth 
Kansas  Volunteer  Cavalry;  First  Sergeant  Thornton,  Sergeant 
Johnson,  Corporal  Shepherd,  Privates  Crosby,  J.  Anderson,  G. 


248 

Godfield,  J.   Marshall,  J.   Brown,  J.   Robinson,  C.   Murray,   F. 
Smith,  Co.  F,  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry;  Private  T.  P.  Masterson,  Co. 
C,  Eighteenth  Kansas  Volunteer  Cavalry;  Private  W.  Turner, 
Co.  F,  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry,  and  Private  A.  J.  Priley,  scout. 
I  am,  Captain, 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

GEO.  A.  ARMES, 
Capt.  Tenth  Cavalry, 
Brevet  Major,  U.  S.  A.,  Commanding. 

Fort  Hays,  Kan.,  August  24,  1867. 

I  reached  this  post  during  the  night  with  my  command  and 
our  wounded  just  after  having  met  Major  Elliott  with  his  six 
companies  of  the  Seventh  Cavalry  on  their  way  to  co-operate  with 
me  according  to  the  plans  laid  out  before  I  made  my  main  move 
on  the  trail.  Instead  of  moving  promptly  he  had  waited  at  this 
post  to  get  his  wagon  loaded  with  forage  and  his  command  fixed 
up  as  if  they  were  going  out  on  a  grand  review.  He  was  marching 
along  with  his  flags  and  guidon,  a- train  of  wagons  and  ambulances 
following  in  the  rear,  as  if  he  intended  to  make  an  average  march 
of  from  ten  to  fifteen  miles  a  day,  while  if  he  had  started  as  he  had 
agreed  to  we  would  have  cleaned  out  the  whole  village  of  Indians. 
On  opening  my  mail  I  found  the  enclosed  letter  from  General 
Grierson : 

Headquarters  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry, 

Fort  Riley,  Kansas,  August  19,  1867. 
Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 

Brevet  Major,  U.  S.  A. : 

The  Major-General  desires  to  express  his  gratification  at  the 
very  creditable  accounts  which  reached  him  of  your  late  engage- 
ment with  Indians.  He  regrets  your  wound,  but  congratulates 
you  that  it  is  not  very  serious,  and  that  you  were  fortunate  to 
escape  with  such  small  loss  to  your  command. 

Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

HENRY  S.  ALVORD, 

U.  S.  A. 

Hundreds  of  people  located  in  and  around  the  vicinity  of  this 
post  have  been  calling  and  congratulating  me  most  of  the  day. 


249 

Headquarters  Post  New  Fort  Hays,  Kans.,  August  23,  1867. 
Bvt.  Brig.-Gen.  Chauncey  McKeever, 

Asst.  Adjt.-Gen.  Dept.  of  the  Missouri: 

General  —I  enclose  herewith  the  official  report  of  Bvt.  Maj.  Geo. 
A.  Armes,  giving  detailed  account  of  the  affair  which  took  place 
northwest  of  this  post,  near  the  Republican.  Major  Armes  did 
all  anyone  could  have  done  with  the  men  he  had  (and  many  would 
have  done  less  without  discredit).  The  universal  testimony  of  the 
officers  and  men  with  Major  Armes  is  that  the  Indians  have  been 
severely  punished  in  this  affair,  and  we  feel  that  they  have  at 
least  paid  in  part  for  their  recent  depredations  in  this  vicinity.  All 
think  that  many  of  our  own  race  were  with  the  enemy,  from  the 
fact  that  our  forces  were  repeatedly  challenged  in  plain  English. 
The  warriors  are  described  as  being  highly  painted.  They  acted 
altogether  on  the  offensive,  and  from  their  superior  numbers  and 
fine  condition  of  their  stock,  compelled  our  forces  to  act  on  the 
defensive. 

The  conduct  of  Major  Armes  and  the  officers  and  men  of  his 
company  is  highly  creditable,  not  only  to  themselves,  but  to  the 
service  to  which  they  belong. 

For  the  gallantry  and  perseverance  of  the  officers  and  men  of  the 
Eighteenth  Kansas  Volunteer  Cavalry  the  people  of  the  State  are 
greatly  indebted,  and  have  added  to  the  already  established  fact 
that  with  the  people  is  our  strength. 

The  wounded  are  well  provided  for,  and  our  medical  men  report 
them  doing  well. 

I  am,  General,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed)         HENRY  C.  CORBIN,  Capt.  Thirty-eighth  Infty. 

During  the  month  of  August  the  cholera  prevailed  at  this  post 
fearfully.  The  company  was  engaged  in  two  battles  with  the 
Indians.  The  first  was  on  August  2,  1867,  near  the  Saline  river. 
The  loss  in  the  fight  was  one  officer  wounded — Captain  Armes — 
and  one  enlisted  man  killed,  three  horses  killed  and  three 
wounded.  The  second  was  on  August  22,  1867,  between  Beaver 
Creek  and  Republican  river,  Kansas.  Our  loss  was  one  man  killed 
and  twelve  wounded,  twelve  horses  killed  and  three  wounded. 
During  the  months  of  July  and  August  the  company  had  marched 
911  miles. 

September  i,  1867. 

Twenty  recruits  were  assigned  to  my  company  today  in  place 
of  those  who  were  killed  and  died  of  cholera  during  the  past  six 
weeks. 

September  n,  1867. 

Dr.  Wiggins  and  Lieutenant  Beecher,  Third  United  States  In- 
fantry, arrived  from  Fort  Lawrence,  Kan.,  today  and  reported 


250 

that  San-tan-ti  (name  of  the  chief)  was  there  with  a  number  of  his 
chiefs.  Lieutenant  Howard  of  the  Fifth  Infantry,  with  the  head- 
quarters band,  arrived  this  evening. 

September  12,  1867. 

I  went  on  duty  as  Officer  of  the  Day  at  nine  this  morning,  and 
was  placed  in  arrest  by  Captain  Ovenshine,  Fifth  Infantry,  who 
was  mean  enough  to  act  upon  false  statements  without  first  send- 
ing to  me  for  an  explanation.  Have  the  limits  of  the  reservation. 
(Arrest  No.  1 1.)  At  six  o'clock  this  evening  Lieutenants  Howard, 
Fifth  Infantry,  and  Amick,  Tenth  Cavalry,  had  a  horse-race  for  a 
purse  of  $300.  I  was  one  of  the  judges.  Lieutenant  Amick's 
horse  came  out  eight  feet  ahead,  creating  considerable  excite- 
ment. 

September  13,  1867. 

I  was  released  from  arrest  at  ten  this  forenoon,  and  no  cause 
given  from  Captain  Ovenshine  for  his  unjust  action.  He  seems 
to  act  as  a  sort  cf  a  figure-head  for  some  of  my  enemies. 

September  14,  1867. 

Governor  Crawford  of  Kansas  arrived  here  today,  and  we  rode 
to  Hays  City  and  other  places  of  interest  in  the  vicinity  of  this 
post. 

September  15,  1867. 

Governor  Crawford  and  his  friends  made  a  visit  to  my  camp 
this  morning  and  witnessed  the  general  inspection,  after  which  I 
had  a  number  of  horses  saddled  for  myself  and  friends  and  took  a 
good  escort  to  protect  us  from  the  Indians.  We  enjoyed  a  grand 
buffalo  hunt  this  afternoon,  killing  quite  a  number.  The  Gov- 
ernor and  his  staff  left  this  evening  for  Topeka. 

September  20,  1867. 

Captain  Ovenshine  going  on  the  sick-list,  sent  for  me  to  take 
command  of  the  post  and  attend  to  the  duties  for  him  in  his  office. 
Mr.  Parks,  in  charge  of  the  railroad  camp  above  here,  was  killed 
by  Indians  today. 

September  22,  1867. 

General  Gibbs  has  relieved  Gen.  A.  J.  Smith  from  command  of 
the  district,  and  has  sent  me  orders  to  have  a  separate  camp  from 
the  post,  not  requiring  me  to  be  subject  to  any  duties  under  the 
post  commander. 


251 

September  23,  1867. 

Colonel  Carpenter,  with  Company  H,  Tenth  Cavalry,  arrived 
today;  also  my  brother,  Charles  H.  Armes,  from  Washington. 
This  afternoon  we  all  went  driving  in  my  ambulance.  In  looking 
over  my  mail,  which  had  been  delayed  on  account  of  change  of 
station,  I  received  the  following  letter  from  my  friend,  Colonel 
Cary : 

Washington,  D.  C,  August  27,  1867. 
Capt.  Ge.o.  A.  Armes, 

Fort  Harker,  Kansas: 

Dear  Captain — Your  letter  of  July  1 1  was  duly  received,  and  I 
was  glad  to  hear  from  you. 

I  had,  with  much  regret,  heard  of  the  death  of  your  brother. 

I  was  married  on  the  2Qth  July  to  Miss  Colby,  of  which  event 
you  were  duly  apprised  by  cards,  which  were  sent  to  you.  To  you 
I  am  indebted  for  rny  acquaintance  with  the  lady  who  is  now  my 
wife.  *  *  * 

After  we  were  married  we  went  to  Niagara  Falls,  down  the  St. 
Lawrence  to  Montreal,  up  Lake  Champlain,  down  the  Hudson  to 
New  York,  and  here.  What  a  splendid  trip  we  had  and  a  splendid 
time! 

I  am  ordered  to  my  regiment,  and  leave  tomorrow  for  St.  Paul, 
Minn.  Write  to  me  there,  care  Maj.  A.  G.  Robinson. 

I  see  your  name  in  the  papers  from  time  to  time.  You  are 
doing  well,  and  I  am  glad  to  see  it,  too.  Shall  always  be  glad  to 
hear  from  you.  My  wife  sends  you  her  regards. 

Yours  truly, 

(Signed)         A.  B.  GARY. 

(Now  Paymaster-General,  U.  S.  A.,  lately  retired.) 

September  25,  1867. 

I  moved  my  camp  about  a  mile  above  Hays  and  made  arrange- 
ments to  take  my  meals  at  the  hotel  in  Hays  City  at  ten  dollars 
per  week.  The  General  Court-Martial,  of  which  I  am  president, 
met  at  the  post  and  we  tried  one  enlisted  man. 

September  28,  1867. 

I  sent  ten  men  to  Colonel  Wickes'  camp  yesterday  to  remain 
there  as  a  guard.  My  court  met  at  ten  o'clock  this  forenoon,  and 
we  finished  the  trial  of  three  enlisted  men  of  the  Seventh  Cavalry, 
adjourning,at  ten  o'clock  to  meet  on  Monday. 


252 

October  i,  1867. 

I  received  notice  of  the  shipment  of  fifty  horses  from  Fort 
Leavenworth  to  replace  those  killed  and  disabled  in  my  last  en- 
gagement with  the  Indians. 

I  also  received  the  following  complimentary  order  from  Gov. 
S.  J.  Crawford,  which  was  delayed  for  several  days  on  account 
of  my  change  of  station.  It  will  make  the  men  who  were  engaged 
in  the  Indian  fight  on  the  Republican  river  feel  good  to  know  that 
their  gallant  services  were  so  highly  appreciated  by  the  Governor 
of  their  own  State  who  is  not  only  a  soldier,  but  a  statesman  and 
one  of  the  best  men  I  ever  met  in  public  life. 

I  feel  encouraged  to  think  he  acted  so  promptly  on  my  recom- 
mendation : 

State  of  Kansas,  Office  of  the  Adjutant-General, 

Topeka,  September  3,  1867. 
General  Orders  No.  8. 

Official  information  having  been  received  of  the  noble  part 
borne  by  Companies  B  and  C,  Eighteenth  Kansas  Volunteer  Cav- 
alry, in  the  recent  engagement  with  a  greatly  superior  force  of 
hostile  Indians  on  the  tributaries  of  the  Republican  river,  thanks 
are  hereby  returned  to  the  brave  officers  and  men  of  those  com- 
panies participating  in  the  engagement,  and  especially  to  Capt. 
E.  A.  Barker,  First  Lieut.  John  W.  Price  and  Private  Joseph  H. 
Gordon  of  Co.  B ;  Capt.  Geo.  B.  Jenness,  First  Lieut.  P.  E.  Thomas, 
Second  Lieut.  J.  Reynolds,  Sergts.  G.  H.  Springer,  G.  A.  Camp- 
bell and  F.  H.  Carpenter,  Corp.  Jas.  H.  Towell  and  Private  E.  J. 
Wooley  of  Co.  C;  also  A.  S.  Philly  of  Shawnee  county,  scout  to 
battalion. 

The  personal  daring,  courage  and  military  skill  displayed  in 
resisting  more  than  ten  times  their  own  numbers,  in  repulsing  the 
bold  charge  made  by  the  enemy  (led  by  the  basest  of  white  men, 
well  drilled  in  war),  in  thwarting  the  cunning  of  the  Indian,  de- 
serves and  merits  the  highest  praise  and  commendation. 

By  order  of  the  Governor. 

(Signed)         J.  B.  McAFEE, 

Adjt.-Gen. 

I  certify  that  the  above  is  a  true  copy  of  an  order  issued  under 
my  direction  while  Governor  of  the  State  of  Kansas,  and  that 
Maj.  George  A.  Amies,  U.  S.  A.,  was  present  and  commanded  the 
forces  participating  in  said  engagement,  as  I  was  at  that  time 
informed. 

(Signed)         SAMUEL  J.  CRAWFORD. 


253 

I  went  to  the  courtroom  as  usual  at  9  A.  M.  One  or  two  of  the 
members  being  absent,  and  not  being  ready  to  go  on  with  the 
case  before  the  court,  I  stepped  over  to  the  Post  Quartermaster's 
office  for  a  few  moments  to  see  him  in  relation  to  his  not  being 
more  prompt  in  furnishing  my  company  with  forage.  Captain 
Laufler  became  very  insulting,  grabbed  his  revolver,  threatening 
to  shoot  me  if  I  did  not  leave.  I  picked  up  a  board  and  knocked 
the  pistol  out  of  his  hand,  and  then  twisted  his  nose  for  him  in  the 
presence  of  several  officers.  A  short  time  afterwards  long-legged 
Lieut.  J.  Milton  Thompson,  the  Post  Adjutant,  seemed  so  anx- 
ious to  perform  his  duty  that  he  placed  me  in  arrest  instead  of 
Captain  Lauffer,  who  was  the  principal  of  the  disturbance,  and 
his  action  was  immediately  approved  by  Captain  Ovenshine,  the 
Post  Commander,  who  seemed  to  be  under  control  of  his  subor- 
dinates, and  who  has  no  regard  for  justice,  honor  or  decency.  I 
was  ordered  to  my  quarters  in  close  arrest,  and  Lieutenant  Ken- 
nedy relieved  me  of  my  command. 

This  (arrest  No.  12)  seemed  to  please  Lieutenant  Kennedy, 
who  was  naturally  very  jealous  of  the  reputation  I  had  established 
in  my  successful  Indian  expeditions.  The  older  officers,  who 
could  not  help  but  show  their  envy  and  jealousy  on  account  of 
my  success,  naturally  took  sides  against  me. 

Camp  New  Fort  Hays,  Kan.,  October  8,  1867. 
The  railroad  is  just  completed,  and  the  cars  came  into  this  town 
for  the  first  time  today. 

October  9,  1867. 

I  joined  with  several  others  and  got  up  a  meeting  which  raised 
$400  in  cash  for  Mr.  Clark  to  start  a  newspaper,  which  will  be 
known  as  the  Hays  City  Times. 

October  17,  1867. 

Started  to  put  up  a  building  on  my  lot  in  Hays  today.  Hired 
three  teams  for  $15  a  day;  expect  others  tomorrow. 

October  26,  1867. 

This  has  been  a  gay  day.  Lieutenant  Amick  and  Lieutenant 
Fisher  had  a  horse-race.  Lieutenant  Amick  won  $400 ;  I  won  $18 
on  his  horse.  The  officers  of  our  post  had  a  lively  time  at  the 
sutlers  last  night.  Lieutenant  Lebo,  Captain  Graham,  Lieutenant 
Bodamer  and  the  party  that  remained  there  most  all  night  drank 


254 

eighty-seven  bottles  of  wine.    Such  customers  are  very  profitable 
to  Mr.  Wilson,  our  genial  and  enterprising  sutler. 

Fort  Hays,  Kan.,  November  5,  1867. 

The  Indians  have  been  driven  out  of  the  country,  the  settlers 
are  returning  to  their  ranches,  and  Captain  Jenness  of  the  Eigh- 
teenth Kansas  and  his  company  left  today  to  be  mustered  out. 

Fort  Hays,  Kan.,  November  30,  1867. 

Colonel  Carpenter  has  been  ordered  to  Fort  Riley  and  is  get- 
ting his  command  in  readiness.  He  has  been  a  very  good  friend 
and  companion  to  me  while  we  were  on  duty  together.  My  com- 
pany goes  with  his  command  to  Fort  Riley  to  winter. 

Walnut  Creek,  Kan.,  December  3,  1867. 

Colonel  Carpenter  left  at  eight  o'clock  this  morning  with  his 
company,  H,  Davis',  G,  and  mine,  F.  I  rode  in  my  new  ambu- 
lance, which  I  have  just  purchased  from  Colonel  Corbin,  sev- 
eral miles,  when  I  concluded  to  ride  horseback,  leaving  it  in 
charge  of  my  orderly,  Thomas  Henery,  who  let  the  team  run 
away,  breaking  the  front  axle  in  two.  We  are  now  in  a  splendid 
camp  and  the  weather  is  pleasant. 

December  6,  1867. 

Several  officers  called  upon  me  today,  and  I  returned  their  calls 
at  the  post.  Captain  Howard,  Fifth  Infantry,  Acting  Adjutant- 
General  to  Colonel  English,  called  upon  me  with  the  request  from 
the  Colonel  that  I  was  not  to  visit  his  post  without  his  permission. 
Of  course,  when  I  received  such  a  very  important  message  from 
the  great  "I  am,"  I  did  not  give  him  an  opportunity  to  refuse,  and 
contented  myself  by  entertaining  such  friends  as  wished  to  call 
upon  me. 

Camp  on  Chapman  Creek,  December  9,  1867. 

We  went  into  camp  at  two  o'clock  this  afternoon,  after  march- 
ing twenty  miles.  Colonel  Carpenter  killed  two  prairie  chickens 
on  the  march  and  invited  me  to  dine  with  him. 

Fort  Riley,  Kan.,  December  10.  1867. 

We  arrived  at  this  post  at  one  o'clock,  and  were  met  by  Gen- 
eral Grierson,  who  gave  me  the  limits  of  the  post. 


255 

Christmas  Eve,  December  24,  1867. 

Colonel  Carpenter  left  this  morning-  for  Leavenworth,  Kan., 
having  been  detailed  for  court-martial  duty.  The  citizens  in  Junc- 
tion City  gave  a  grand  party  to  myself  and  other  orBcers  of  my 
regiment,  but  I  declined  attending,  not  wishing  to  ask  permission 
to  leave  the  post.  Lieutenants  Lebo,  Badger,  Banzhalf  and  Myers 
spent  the  first  half  of  the  evening  with  me. 

Christmas,  December  25,  1867. 

The  sun  has  been  bright  most  of  the  day,  and  most  everyone 
kept  open  house,  myself  included.  Most  all  the  officers  called 
upon  me,  General  Grierson  included,  who  sent  me  an  invitation 
to  attend  a  hop  at  his  quarters  this  evening. 

December  31,  1867. 

General  and  Mrs.  Grierson  have  invited  me  to  call  on  them 
without  regard  to  ceremony,  and  seemed  disposed  to  grant  every 
indulgence  I  might  wish. 

The  following  reached  me  on  this  the  last  day  of  the  year : 

Abbotsford,  near  Ogden, 
Riley  Co.,  Kans.,  December  23,  1867. 
Dear  Armes : 

Your  very  welcome  letter  reached  me  in  due  course  of  mail,  and 
I  owe  you  an  apology  (which  I  will  make  when  next  we  meet)  for 
not  having  replied  to  your  favor  at  an  earlier  date. 

I  read  your  account  of  your  fight  with  the  redskins  to  a  crowd 
of  officers"  at  the  fort ;  all  of  whom,  particularly  those  of  your  regi- 
ment, seemed  highly  delighted  to  hear  of  your  complete  success. 

It  was  generally  voted  that  you  deserved  a  big  brevet,  and  I 
sincerely  hope  you  will  get  it. 

Whilst  in  Washington  this  winter  I  will  do  my  best  to  help  you 
in  that  way. 

It  is  reported  that  you  are  to  be  hauled  up  for  stopping  that 
blackguard  Benham;  if  so,  have  me  summoned,  and  I  will  do  all 
I  can  for  you.  Every  officer  at  Riley  approved  of  your  course, 
and  commended  you  for  acting  as  you  did. 

Major  Smith  did  not  pay  your  accounts  until  recently,  as  you 
will  see  by  the  enclosed  certificate. 

Robertson  and  Allen  of  your  regiment  have  been  relieved  from 
duty  at  Riley  and  ordered  to  join  their  regiment. 


256 

My  paper  is  about  out,  as  you  will  readily  imagine  when  you  see 
this  scrap.  I  had  a  notice  of  your  Indian  affair  published  in  the 
Junction  City  paper.  Let  me  hear  from  you  when  you  can. 

It  will  always  give  me  pleasure,  and  should  you  ever  come  this 
way  I  will  be  most  happy  to  see  you,  and  have  you  to  make  my 
house  your  home.  If  any  of  my  old  friends  are  at  your  post,  please 
remember  me  to  them. 

P.  S. — Flood  is  mustered  out  and  gone  home. 
Very  truly,  yours, 

D.  W.  SCOTT. 

Headquarters  Dist.  Upper  Ark., 

Fort  Harker,  Kans.,  August  23,  1867. 
Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 

Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry: 

Captain — I  am  directed  to  inform  you  unofficially  that  General 
Hancock  will  be  at  the  end  of  the  railroad  track  on  Sunday,  where 
he  will  dine.  If  you  can  be  spared  from  Fort  Hays  the  General 
would  like  to  see  you  there  with  a  personal  escort. 

Similar  letters  to  this  have  been  sent  to  Majors  Elliott  and 
Moore  and  Captain  Corbin. 
I  am,  Captain,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

W.  B.  WEIR,  First  Lieut.  Seventh  Cav.,  A.  A.  A.  Gen. 


CHAPTER  VI. 

Leaven  worth,  Kan.,  January  2,  1868. 

I  left  Fort  Riley  on  the  eleven  o'clock  train  this  A.  M.  for  this 
post  to  appear  before  a  court-martial  for  trial.  Colonel  English 
and  Dr.  Fryer  came  as  witnesses  against  me. 

January  3,  1868. 

I  reported  to  Captain  Beebe,  Adjutant-General  of  the  Depart- 
ment, who  referred  me  to  Cojonel  Hoffman,  Post  Commander, 
who  assigned  me  quarters  and  gave  me  the  privilege  of  remaining 
in  the  city  if  I  wished,  and  I  am  the  guest  of  Mr.  Shrivers. 

January  7,  1868. 

General  Hoffman  extended  my  limits  as  far  as  Leavenworth 
City,  where  I  met  Mr.  Shreeves,  and,  with  Colonel  Carpenter, 
called  on  Judge  Delahay  and  daughters.  We  went  to  hear  the 
Bell  Ringers  this  evening,  who  were  very  entertaining. 

January  8,  1868. 

The  trial  of  Gen.  George  A.  Custer  was  ended  yesterday,  and 
this  morning  I  appeared  for  trial  before  the  same  court,  whose 
president  is  Gen.  L.  C.  Easton.  My  case  was  postponed  until 
tomorrow. 

Col.  C.  C.  Parsons,  Fourth  Artillery,  one  of  the  members  of  the 
court,  introduced  me  to  Lieut.  Peter  Leary,  Jr.,  Fourth  Artillery, 
who  has  kindly  taken  my  case  as  counsel.  Gen.  Custer  and 
Lieutenant  Cook  were  held  to  $5000  bail  today  to  appear  before 
the  civil  court  tomorrow  morning. 

January  9,  1868. 

I  appeared  before  the  court  at  ten  this  morning.  Colonel 
Myer's  case  was  up  for  a  short  time  and  closed.  Maj.  Andrew 
Sheridan,  Third  Infantry,  was  sick  and  excused  from  sitting  as  a 
member.  I  made  no  objection  to  any  of  the  members.  Colonel 
Benteen  and  Lieutenant  Commagere,  Seventh  Cavalry,  were  the 
only  two  witnesses  examined  today.  Both  were  for  the  prosecu- 
tion. Colonel  West,  Seventh  Cavalry,  testified  before  the  civil 
authorities  against  General  Custer  and  Lieutenant  Cook  today. 


258 

January  n,  1868. 

I  appeared  before  the  court  (court-martial  No.  2)  at  ten  o'clock 
this  morning,  the  following  members  being  present : 

Brvt.  Maj.-Gen.  L.  C.  Easton,  Deputy  Q.  M.  Gen.;  Brvt.  Maj.- 
Gen.  J.  W.  Davidson,  Lieut-Col.  Tenth  Cav. ;  Brvt.  Brig.-Gen. 
M.  R.  Morgan,  Major  and  C.  S. ;  Lieut. -Col.  Enoch  Steen,  U.  S. 
Army;  Brvt.  Lieut-Col.  J.  McNutt,  Major  Ord.  Dept;  Brvt. 
Lieut-Col.  C.  C.  Parsons,  Captain  Fourth  Art.;  Brvt.  Major  D. 
Parker,  Captain  Third  Infty.;  Brvt.  Major  H.  T.  Davis,  Captain 
Tenth  Cav.;  Brvt.  Captain  H.  A.  Huntington,  Lieutenant  Fourth 
Art.;  Judge  Advocate,  First  Lieut.  A.  M.  L.  Crawford,  Thirty- 
eighth  U.  S.  Infty. 

Captain  Ovenshine  and  Captain  Lauffer  testified  for  the  prose- 
cution, but  no  testimony  so  far  has  been  given  that  can  hurt  me, 
as  I  did  not  break  my  arrest  to  attend  meals,  nor  did  I  refuse  to 
obey  the  order  of  arrest  from  Lieutenant  Thompson  until  I  had 
resented  the  insult  of  Captain  Lauffer,  and  as  the  affair  was  over 
before  Thompson,  the  Post  Adjutant,  arrived,  he  had  no  right  to 
place  me  in  arrest  under  the  authority  of  the  Twenty-seventh 
Article  of  War.  Private  Rogers,  Troop  K,  Seventh  Cavalry,  testi- 
fied that  he  was  present  and  that  Thompson  did  not  place  me 
under  arrest  until  after  the  matter  was  entirely  over.  Captain 
Lauffer  having  drawn  his  revolver  and  threatened  to  shoot,  caused 
me  to  pick  up  a  stick  and  knock  it  out  of  his  hand. 

I  was  arraigned  upon  the  following  charges  : 

Charge  First—  Refusing  to  obey  an  arrest,  in  violation  of  the 
twenty-seventh  article  of  war;  being  engaged  in  fighting  or  quar- 
reling with  Capt.  S.  B.  Lauffer,  A.  Q.  M.,  U.  S.  A. 

Specificaton — Being  engaged  in  fighting  or  quarreling  with 
Capt.  S.  B.  Lauffer,  A.  O.  M.,  U.  S.  A.,  in  open  camp,  being  placed 
under  arrest  by  Lieut.  J.  M.  Thompson,  Thirty-eighth  Infantry, 
under  the  authority  of  the  twenty-seventh  article  of  war.  He  re- 
fuses to  obey  such  arrest.  This  at  Fort  Hays  on  or  about  the  1st 
day  of  October,  1867. 

Charge  Second — Breach  of  arrest. 

Specification — That  having  been  placed  under  arrest  by  order 
of  Capt.  S.  Ovenshine,  Fifth  Infantry,  commanding  at  Fort  Hays, 
October  6,  1867,  and  having  had  the  limit  of  his  camp  assigned, 
did  break  said  arrest  by  visiting  and  remaining  in  the  town  of 
Hays  City  for  about  three  hours  on  or  about  the  2Oth  of  October, 
1867. 


259 

Specification  Second — That  he,  on  the  2d  day  of  October,  1867, 
or  thereabouts,  did  visit  the  town  of  Hays  City  without  proper 
authority,  he  being  at  that  time  under  arrest,  with  his  camp  limit 
assigned  him,  with  the  limits  of  his  arrest.  This  at  or  near  Fort 
Hays,  Kans.,  on  or  about  the  2d  day  of  October,  1867. 

Charge  Third — Neglect  of  duty. 

Did,  after  having  been  placed  under  arrest  October  I,  having 
applied  October  2,  1867,  at  the  headquarters,  District  of  Upper 
Arkansas,  to  have  the  limits  of  the  district  assigned  him  as  the 
limits  of  his  arrest,  which  application  was  returned  disapproved 
October  5,  1867,  which  paper,  as  he  states,  he  failed  to  receive,  did 
neglect  and  fail  to  make  any  other  efforts  to  have  the  limits  of  his 
arrest  defined.  This  at  or  near  Fort  Hays,  October  2,  1867,  until 
November  2,  1867,  or  about  that  period  of  time. 

To  which  charges  and  specifications  he  pleads  not  guilty. 

January  13,  1868. 

I  appeared  before  the  court  at  ten  this  forenoon.  Captain 
Ovenshine  testified  that  he  gave  me  permission  to  go  to  Hays 
City  for  my  meals.  Colonel  English  appeared  and  swore  he  saw 
me  there  October  20.  Quartermaster-Sergeant  Moore,  Seventh 
Cavalry,  testified  that  I  refused  to  obey  orders  of  arrest  on  the 
ground  that  the  affair  •with  Captain  Laufler  was  all  over  before 
Lieutenant  Thompson  appeared. 

The  prosecution  closed  today,  and  I  was  given  until  Wednes- 
day to  prepare  my  defense.  Lieutenant  Leary  is  fixing  it  up.  He 
is  a  bright,  popular  young  officer  and  a  friend  of  mine  who  I  be- 
lieve will  show  the  charges  against  me  were  false  and  fixed  up 
through  malice  and  jealousy  by  officers  whose  records  will  not 
bear  investigation. 

Colonel  Parsons  gave  a  party  last  evening  to  all  the  officers  and 
ladies  of  the  post.  I  declined  to  attend  on  account  of  my  case  not 
being  settled.  Lieutenant  Leary  called  upon  me  this  morning 
and  read  the  defense  he  had  prepared,  which  was  a  good  one.  I 
appeared  before  the  court  and  read  it,  after  which  the  court  closed 
its  doors  and  proceeded  to  act  upon  the  case.  Colonel  Sheridan 
and  Major  Beebe  called  upon  me  this  evening  and  remained  two 
or  three  hours. 

January  17,  1868. 

This  has  been  a  great  day  for  me,  as  the  Post  Adjutant  came  to 
my  quarters  this  morning  announcing  my  honorable  acquittal  and 
releasing  me  from  arrest,  giving  me  four  days'  permission  to  delay 
reporting  to  my  command  at  Fort  Riley. 


260 

The  good  news  was  soon  spread  over  the  post  and  the  town, 
cjid  many  uf  my  friends  have  called  to  congratulate  me. 

January  18,  1868. 
Extract  from  the  press  on  my  acquittal : 

The  Major  may  congratulate  himself  upon  having  had  a  hear- 
ing before  a  court  composed  of  some  of  the  most  efficient  officers 
and  thorough  gentlemen  in  the  service. 

Fort  Riley,  Kan.,  January  21,  1868. 

I  left  the  Planters'  House  (Leavenworth,  Kan.)  at  seven  o'clock 
this  morning,  reaching  this  post  at  three  this  afternoon. 
General  Grierson  seemed  glad  to  know  I  got  off  so  nicely. 

January  22,  1868. 

Assumed  command  of  my  company  today,  giving  a  thorough 
inspection  and  receiving  notice  to  go  on  duty  as  Officer  of  the 
Day  for  tomorrow. 

January  24,  1868. 

General  Grierson  turned  the  command  of  the  regiment  over  to 
me,  which  I  drilled  mounted  and  passed  it  in  review.  I  also  com- 
manded the  regiment  this  afternoon  at  dress  parade,  dismounted. 
The  command  made  a  fine  appearance. 

Topeka,  Kan.,  February  20,  1868. 

Several  men  deserted  at  the  post  last  night,  and  I  was  ordered 
after  them.  Leaving  Fort  Riley  at  five  o'clock  this  morning  with 
four  men,  hired  fresh  horses  and  pursued  them  several  miles,  when 
I  jumped  on  a  train  for  this  place  in  order  to  put  out  detectives, 
and  overtake  them. 

Fort  Riley,  Kan.,  February  22,  1868. 

Left  Topeka  at  eleven  o'clock  this  morning;  stopped  at 
Wamego,  where  I  secured  the  three  deserters,  whom  Mr.  Beeman 
had  captured  in  the  trap  we  had  set  for  them,  and  arrived  here  at 
five  o'clock  this  afternoon.  I  enjoyed  the  trip  and  attended  to 
my  duties  just  the  same. 

March  23,  1868. 

General  Grierson  received  orders  today  to  be  ready  to  move 
the  headquarters  of  his  regiment  to  Fort  Gibson,  Indian  Terri- 
tory, and  turn  this  command  over  to  Major  Kidd. 


26l 

I  have  been  preparing  my  company  and  getting  it  in  first-class 
order  to  start  for  the  front  as  soon  as  the  Indians  begin  to  make 
depredations. 

March  25,  1868. 

I  had  just  made  arrangements  to  take  a  seven  days'  leave  and 
visit  St.  Louis  when  an  order  came  placing  me  on  general  court- 
martial  duty,  which  has  broken  up  my  plan. 

Kansas  City,  Mo.,  April  3,  1868. 

As  my  court  finished  its  case,  a  seven  days'  leave  was  granted, 
and  I  left  Riley  at  eleven  o'clock  this  afternoon.  Mrs.  Scott 
(who  afterwards  married  Capt.  C.  G.  Cox,  Tenth  Cavalry)  came 
as  far  as  Manhattan  on  the  train.  Lieutenant  Williams,  Third 
Infantry,  is  with  me  and  en  route  to  Jefferson  City  with  some 
prisoners  for  the  penitentiary. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  March  30,  1868. 
My  Dear  Captain: 

General  Hancock,  being  exceedingly  pressed  by  business,  has 
directed  me,  to  say  in  reply  to  your  letter  of  the  2Oth  inst.,  that  he 
sent  the  recommendations  for  brevets  for  yourself,  and,  he  be- 
lieves, for  Mr.  Bodamer,  through  General  Sherman's  headquarters, 
and  to  make  the  matter  more  certain  the  General  spoke  about  it  to 
General  Sherman. 

You  can  see  copies  (or  procure  them)  of  the  General's  recom- 
mendations at  the  Adjutant-General's  Office,  headquarters  De- 
partment of  the  Missouri. 

It  is  probable  that  the  recommendations  are  at  the  Adjutant- 
General's  Office  in  Washington,  and  have  never  been  acted  upon. 

This  you  could  ascertain  by  addressing  a  letter  to  the  Adjutant- 
General  of  the  Army  on  the  subject. 

At  this  time  it  is  not  probable  that  any  further  action  by  General 
Hancock  would  secure  the  brevets  for  you. 

I  am,  Captain,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

W.  S.  MITCHELL,  Brvt.  Lieut.-Col.  and  Asst. 
CAPT.  G.  A.  ARMES, 

Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry,  Fort  Riley,  Kansas. 

The  above  letter  will  have  recognized  point  when  the  following 
facts  are  considered :  A  short  time  after  General  Hancock  had 
been  relieved  in  New  Orleans  by  order  of  General  Grant  he  acci- 
dentally met  the  General  on  Pennsylvania  avenue,  who  at  once 
extended  his  hand,  which  was  refused  by  General  Hancock,  and 
very  few  of  his  recommendations  were  favorably  acted  upon  for 
some  years  afterwards. 


262 

Jefferson  City,  April  8,  1868. 

After  calling  at  General  Sherman's  headquarters  and  bidding 
General  Nichols  and  other  friends  good-bye,  I  left  on  the  one 
o'clock  train  and  reached  this  city  at  eleven  o'clock.  I  am  now 
at  the  Virginia  Hotel. 

April  n,  1868. 

Orders  have  come  at  last  to  get  ready  to  march,  and  I  have  been 
busy  all  day  packing  up  all  the  dress  suits  of  the  men  and  their 
best  clothes  to  store  away  in  boxes  and  getting  my  company 
ready  for  light  marching  order  to  go  in  pursuit  of  a  band  of  In- 
dians who  have  commenced  their  depredations  in  Western 
Kansas. 

I  have  just  sent  a  letter  to  Department  headquarters  in  order 
that  report  of  some  mischief-making  officers  of  the  post  can  be  in- 
vestigated, so  I  can  prove  their  manufactured  charge  to  be  false. 
Captain  Burns,  Lieutenant  Lee  and  Major  Davis  seem  to  be  the 
interested  parties  who  are  trying  to  get  me  into  trouble. 

My  company  wagons  are  loaded  and  everything  ready  to  move 
at  eight  o'clock  this  morning.  Colonel  Forsyth  inspected  my  com- 
pany very  closely  and  complimented  me  for  having  it  in  such  ex- 
cellent condition. 

Chapman's  Creek,  April  15,  1868. 

Major  Kidd  formed  a  battalion  in  line  and  marched  past  Gen- 
eral Grierson's  headquarters  in  review,  where  Colonel  Forsyth 
and  a  number  of  other  officers  witnessed  the  movement. 

The  men  and  horses  are  in  splendid  condition. 

The  band  went  with  us  as  far  as  Junction  City,  playing  some 
lively  tunes  as  we  passed  through.  General  Grierson  rode  out 
with  us  several  miles,  and  then  bade  us  good-bye.  We  arrived 
in  camp  at  two  o'clock,  and.  are  now  comfortably  fixed  in  our 
tents. 

Sunday,  April  26,  1868. 

After  inspection  I  called  on  General  Sheridan,  who  is  in  camp 
twelve  miles  above  here,  and  his  brother,  Col.  M,  Sheridan,  re- 
turned with  me  to  Hays  City.  The  Seventh  Cavalry  is  here,  and 
with  the  Infantry  officers  of  this  post  makes  everything  look- 
lively. 

General  Sheridan  being  in  command  in  person,  has  collected 
quite  a  force  to  commence  the  summer  campaign  against  the  In- 
dians, and  there  seems  to  be  some  hard  work  in  store  for  us. 


263 

April  30,  1868. 

Generals  Thomas,  Price,  T.  T.  Crittendon  (late  Governor  of 
Missouri),  Colonels  Phillips  and  Barnett,  Judge  Jenafer,  General 
Perry  and  several  other  railroad  magnates  arrived  here  in  a  special 
train.  They  called  on  me,  and  I  furnished  each  a  good  horse,  and 
detailed  some  forty  or  fifty  soldiers  as  a  body-guard  to  protect 
them  against  the  Indians  while  on  the  buffalo  hunt. 

General  Price  rode  in  my  ambulance  a  few  miles,  until  we 
sighted  a  large  herd  of  buffalo,  when  I  gave  him  a  good  horse 
that  would  stand  still  while  shooting  from  him.  Several  ladies 
rode  out  on  horseback  and  in  ambulances  to  witness  the  hunt. 

About  2  o'clock  a  tremendous  bull  was  shot  in  the  leg  by  Cor- 
poral Butler,  giving  the  General  a  chance  to  kill  it,  which  he  did 
by  a  well-directed  shot.  Of  course,  the  General  felt  much  ex- 
cited, and  threw  down  his  gun,  cheering,  which  brought  the  rest 
of  the  party  around  to  congratulate  him  for  killing  his  first  buffalo. 
He  handed  Butler  $5,  requesting  him  to  cut  off  the  hind  quarters 
and  take  out  the  tongue  from  the  buffalo. 

My  party  killed  twenty-seven  buffalo,  and,  after  loading  two 
six-mule  wagons,  we  returned  to  camp,  allowing  the  excursion 
party  to  ship  what  they  wished  to  Jefferson  City. 

May  2,  1868. 

General  Crittendon  and  one  or  two  of  my  guests  have  heard  of 
the  threats  made  by  Graham  and  the  blackguard,  Kennedy,  to 
prefer  charges  against  me  for  entertaining  railroad  officials,  and, 
in  order  to  encourage  me,  voluntarily  sent  me  the  following  letter : 


Maj.  G.  A.  Armes: 

Sir — We  have  learned  today,  upon  our  return  from  Cayote,  that 
some  of  the  officers  of  the  fort  and  camp  are  inclined  to  reflect 
upon  you  for  having  supplied  us  with  some  horses  yesterday.  This 
we  regret,  and  proffer  in  partial  return  for  your  great  kindness  to 
us  as  strangers  any  assistance  that  may  be  available  to  you.  Many 
of  us  have  served  our  Government  as  cavalry  officers  during  the 
late  rebellion,  and  then  and  there  learned  two  potent  facts — first, 
how  to  use  a  horse,  as  not  to  injure  it,  and,  second,  that  in  a  cavalry 
officer,  as  a  general  thing,  a  warm,  genial  spirit  is  always  to  be 


264 

found.  We  have  learned,  also,  that  Captain  Graham  said  upon 
our  departure  from  home  that  when  we  called  upon  him  for  horses 
he  responded  by  asking  us  if  we  thought  him  a  d —  fool.  He  used 
no  such  language.  If  he  says  he  did,  we  can  brand  him  with  a 
falsehood  that  will  place  him  outside  of  the  pale  of  decent  associ- 
ation. A  part  of  our  party  have  gone  on,  else  we  would  send  you  a 
written  denial  of  the  language  at  once. 

If  it  becomes  necessary  for  us  to  come  to  your  assistance  in  any 
way,  inform  us  by  writing  to  Capt.  Thos.  E.  Bassett,  Sedalia,  Mo. 
Excuse  our  paper,  as  this  is  all  that  could  be  given  us  at  our  hotel. 
Please  accept  our  thanks  and  our  adieux. 

Yours  truly, 

THOS.  E.  BASSETT. 
JAS.  C.  WOOD. 
THOS.  L.  PRICE. 
JAS.  MONTGOMERY. 
WM.  GENTRY. 
T.  T.  CRITTENDON. 
E.  W.  WASHBURN. 

May  4,  1868. 

Shortly  after  I  relieved  Colonel  Carpenter  as  Officer  of  the  Day 
and  had  received  instructions  as  to  my  duties  from  the  command- 
ing officer,  Major  Kidd,  Kennedy,  who  is  acting  Adjutant,  came 
to  my  quarters  and  placed  me  in  arrest  (arrest  No.  13),  which 
order  I  obeyed,  handing  him  my  saber.  Afterward  he  was  placed 
in  command  of  my  company  and  the  limits  of  the  camp  assigned 
to  me. 

From  information  I  have  gathered  so  far  this  evening  several 
officers  have  conspired  and  fixed  up  a  long  set  of  charges  upon 
which  they  intend  to  try  to  have  me  court-martialed  as  soon  as  a 
court  can  be  organized  upon  matters  that  they  have  been  trying 
to  arrange  for  the  past  few  months,  being  greatly  disappointed 
with  the  action  of  the  court  at  Fort  Leavenworth  in  honorably 
acquitting  me. 

May  6,  1868. 

I  turned  over  my  company  proper  to  this  loafer,  Kennedy, 
today.  It  is  surprising  that  such  characters  are  recognized  by 
decent  officials  and  sustained  in  their  cowardly,  sneaking  acts. 


265 

May  14,  1868. 

General  Sheridan  and  staff  are  here,  but  go  to  Fort  Wallace 
on  tonight's  train.  Captain  Graham  is  to  take  station  at  that 
post,  being  a  special  friend  of  General  Sheridan's.  Graham's  com- 
pany and  horses  were  loaded  on  the  cars  this  evening  to  go  with 
the  General. 

May  1 6,  1868. 

The  news  of  the  President's  acquittal  by  the  Senate  came  to- 
night, and  only  two  or  three  of  the  officials  of  this  command  seem 
to  appreciate  and  feel  glad  of  it.  If  I  was  in  command  I  would 
have  a  general  salute  fired  in  his  honor,  but  Major  Kidd,  being 
of  different  politics,  appears  to  pay  no  attention  whatever. 

Camp  Fifteen  Miles  South  of  Hays,  May  25,  1868. 
News  of  General  Grant's  nomination  for  President  came  today. 
As  the  command  has  started  on  the  campaign,  I  had  to  break  up 
housekeeping  at  the  post,  where  I  was  as  nicely  fixed  as  a  bachelor 
officer  could  well  be.  My  chickens  were  so  well  trained  they 
would  come  into  the  corner  of  the  tent  and  lay,  then  walk  outside 
to  cackle.  No  one  would  know  a  hen  was  about  the  premises 
until  after  she  had  gone  outside  of  the  tent.  I  had  to  dispose  of 
all  my  chickens  and  one  of  the  best  cows  I  ever  had  at  a  great 
sacrifice,  as  it  was  impossible  to  have  such  luxuries  during  the 
campaign  after  Indians. 

Camp  Fifty-two  Miles  West  of  Hays, 

near  Grenells'  Station,  May  28,  1868. 

Just  after  we  had  put  up  our  tents  news  arrived  that  the  Indians 
had  attacked  Cayotte  Station  and  Fort  Wallace.  One  man  had 
been  killed  at  each  place  and  quite  a  number  wounded  and  a  lot 
of  stock  run  off  by  a  band  of  Cheyenne  dog  soldiers.  Two  Indians 
reporting  themselves  to  Major  Kidd  as  Big  Horse  and  Young 
Buck  made  our  camp  a  visit.  They  were  treated  as  friendly  as 
possible,  and  after  spying  out  and  gathering  all  the  information 
they  could,  left  us  to  rejoin  a  band  of  warriors  who  had  stolen 
hundreds  of  head  of  stock.  By  rights  these  two  Indians  should 
have  been  held  as  prisoners,  but  Major  Kidd,  who  appears  to  have 
scarcely  sense  enough  to  come  in  out  of  the  rain,  let  them  go. 


266 

Camp  at  Chalk  Bluffs,  May  29,  1868. 

This  is  my  birthday,  and  I  am  well  and  hearty,  but  I  am  cross 
and  provoked  at  the  mean  way  Major  Kidd  commands  the  bat- 
talion. We  have  only  marched  fourteen  miles  and  have  gone  into 
camp  on  the  Smoky  river,  in  the  bed  of  which  we  have  to  dig 
four  or  five  feet  for  water,  which  is  warm  and  muddy,  there  not 
being  any  water  in  sight  until  we  dig  for  it.  The  cars  are  run- 
ning to  Monument  Station  and  the  stage  coaches  are  taken  from 
the  old  stage  line  and  sent  to  Denver.  We  are  trying  to  protect 
the  railroad  men,  some  of  them  at  least,  from  the  marauding 
Indians  and  make  them  feel  safe  while  doing  their  work. 

Monument  Station,  May  30,  1868. 

We  only  marched  thirteen  miles  today,  and  I  have  just  had  a 
long  and  pleasant  chat  with  my  old  friend,  Colonel  Cunningham, 
Captain  of  the  Thirty-eighth  Infantry,  who  commands  this  post 
and  station.  Lieutenants  Davis  and  Ezekial,  Thirty-eighth  Infan- 
try, are  here.  Plenty  of  water  is  found  by  digging  about  two  or 
three  feet  in  the  bed  of  the  Smoky  river. 

Smoky  Hill  Station,  May  31,  1868. 

Command  started  at  seven  this  morning-  I  rode  my  pony  a 
short  distance,  and,  upon  returning  to  the  command  in  a  gallop, 
the  pony  stepped  into  a  prairie-dog  hole,  throwing  me  over  his 
head,  and  stunned  me  so  I  had  to  be  picked  up  and  carried  in  an 
ambulance  until  we  reached  camp,  when  I  was  given  up  for  dead 
by  several,  but  Drs.  Sternberg  and  Killburn  brought  me  to  life 
all  right.  Both  doctors  have  been  rendering  me  every  attention 
possible,  and  I  hope  to  be  all  right  and  able  to  march  tomorrow. 

Russell  Springs,  Kan.,  June  i,  1868. 

I  started  to  ride  on  horseback  this  morning,  but  soon  grew  too 
weak,  and  the  doctor  ordered  me  into  an  ambulance.  We  have 
plenty  of  grass  and  wrater. 

Fort  Wallace  is  twenty-five  miles  west  of  this  camp. 

Henshaw  Station,  June  2,  1868. 

We  marched  thirteen  miles  today.  It  has  been  two  years  since 
I  was  here.  Since  that  time  all  the  buildings  have  been  burned 
down  by  the  Indians,  and  the  stables  are  underground. 


267 

Private  Micheal  of  K  Troop  accidentally  shot  himself  this  after- 
noon. His  body  was  wrapped  up  in  a  woolen  blanket,  and  we 
dug  a  hole  and  buried  him  by  the  side  of  the  road. 

Camp  near  Fort  Wallace,  June  4,  1868. 

We  moved  in  a  new  camp  during  the  day  near  Rose  creek,  and 
have  plenty  of  water  and  grass  for  the  command,  but  unless  we 
have  a  new  commanding  officer  with  more  sense  than  Major  Kidd 
seems  to  possess  we  will  never  overtake  or  punish  an  Indian,  as  he 
appears  to  be  as  worthless  an  officer  as  ever  wore  shoulder-straps. 

June  22,  1868. 

1  received  an  order  to  report  to  Fort  Hays  for  trial  on  the  27th, 
and  at  once  loaded  my  traps  into  a  wagon  to  start  for  the  post, 
when  Lieutenant  Banzhaf  obtained  an  order  to  let  him  have  a 
book  I  was  in  need  of  for  my  defence  which  I  was  obliged  to  give 
up  in  spite  of  my  protest. 

Hays  City,  Kan.,  June  23,  1868. 

I  left  camp  near  Fort  Wallace  at  six  o'clock  this  morning;  rode 
part  of  the  way  on  the  stage  to  the  end  of  the  track,  leaving  my 
pony,  which  I  brought  here  on  the  cars,  and  arrived  at  eleven 
o'clock  this  forenoon. 

June  24,  1868. 

I  reported  my  arrival  to  Captain  Ovenshine,  Fifth  Infantry, 
commanding  in  absence  of  Major  Yard,  Tenth  Cavalry.  I  am 
allowed  to  remain  in  the  city  until  further  notice. 

June  27,  1868. 

I  reported  to  the  Judge-Advocate,  Lieutenant  Brownell,  the 
officer  who  was  once  a  private  in  Colonel  Ellsworth's  regiment, 
and  who  killed  Jim  Jackson  at  the  Marshall  House,  Alexandria, 
Va.,  in  1861,  and  who  was  specially  promoted  to  a  Lieutenant 
in  the  regular  Army  and  retired,  answering  quite  a  number  of 
Cjuestions. 

General  Court-Martial  Room, 

Fort  Hays,  Kans.,  July  2,  1868. 
Brvt.  Maj.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 

Hays  City,  Kans. : 

Major — I  have  the  honor  to  inform  you  that  your  case  will  be 
called  tomorrow  morning,  the  3d  inst.,  at  10  o'clock  A.  M. 

I  am,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
FRANK  E.  BROWN  ELL,  First.  Lieut.  U.  S.  Inf.,  Judge- Advocate. 


.268 

Having  been  kept  in  arrest  since  May  4  and  everthing  done  to 
make  life  unpleasant  in  order  that  perhaps  I  could  be  forced  to 
resign  so  as  to  create  a  vacancy  for  the  promotion  of  some  mis- 
chief-making Lieutenants,  who  are  ready  to  do  anything  they 
can  to  obtain  promotion,  I  received  the  above  letter,  and  now 
that  a  court  has  been  ordered  I  am  ready  to  appear  before  it. 

July  3,  1868. 

The  court  did  not  meet  until  nine  o'clock  this  forenoon,  when  I 
reported  for  trial.  A  large  number  of  witnesses  for  the  prosecu- 
tion were  on  hand.  Dr.  Westerling  was  examined  today,  and  my 


C.  H.  ARMKS. 


cross-questions  made  him  contradict  himself  all  through,  so  that 
the  court  soon  saw  he  was  lying,  and  his  evidence  had  no  effect 
against  me.  My  brother  is  helping  to  conduct  my  case.  The 
court  adjourned. 

(Court-martial  No.  3.) 

July  7,  1868. 

I  appeared  before  the  court  at  ten  o'clock  this  forenoon  in  com- 
pliance with  the  following  order : 


269 


Headquarters  Dept.  of  the  Missouri,  Fort  Leavenworth,  Kan. 
Special  Order  No.  118 — Extract. 

A  general  court-martial  is  hereby  appointed  to  meet  at  Fort 
Hayes,  Kans.,  on  Saturday,  the  27th  day  of  July,  1868,  at  10  o'clock 
in  the  forenoon,  or  as  soon  thereafter  as  practicable,  for  the  trial  of 
Brvt.  Maj.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  Captain  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry,  and  such 
other  persons  as  may  be  properly  brought  before  it. 

Detailed  for  the  Court — Brvt.  Brig.-Gen.  Pitcairn  Morrison, 
Lieut.-Col.  Enoch  Steen,  U.  S.  A.;  Brvt.  Lieut-Col.  Myers  W. 
Keogh,  Captain  Seventh  Cavalry;  Maj.  E.  O.  Yard,  Tenth  U.  S. 
Cavalry;  Capt.  Edmund  Butler,  Fifth  U.  S.  Infantry;  Capt.  Martin 
Mullins,  Fifth  U.  S.  Infantry;  Capt.  Wm.  Thompson,  Seventh  U. 
S.  Cavalry;  First  Lieut.  Geo.  McDermott,  Fifth  U.  S.  Infantry; 
First  Lieut.  Ed.  L.  Randall,  Fifth  U.  S.  Infantry;  Judge-Advocate, 
First  Lieut.  Frank  E.  Brownell,  U.  S.  A.  (who  had  avenged  the 
death  of  Ellsworth  by  killing  his  slayer). 

No  other  officers  than  those  above  mentioned  can  be  assembled 
without  manifest  injury  to  the  service. 

By  command  of 

MAJOR-GENERAL  SHERIDAN. 
(Signed)         CHAUNCEY  MCKEEVER,  Asst.  Adjt.-Gen. 

Official:    SILAS  PEPOON, 

Second  Lieut.  Tenth  U.  S.  Cav.,  Post  Adjt. 

(who  had  been  a  clerk  to  A.  Q.  M.  U.  S.  Grant,  afterwards  the 
great  General). 

Lieutenant  Thompson  of  the  Thirty-eighth  Infantry  was  ex- 
amined, but  the  court  soon  sized  him  up,  and  saw  that  he  was 
willfully  lying  all  through  his  testimony. 

July  8,  1868. 

I  appeared  before  the  court  at  ten  o'clock  this  morning.  Lieut. 
John  Bodamer,  one  of  the  clique  to  help  manufacture  the  charges, 
gave  in  all  he  could  to  make  me  appear  guilty  and  willfully  lied 
in  trying  to  sustain  the  charges. 

July  10,  1868. 

I  appeared  before  the  court  at  ten  o'clock  this  morning.  Sev- 
eral soldiers  were  used  by  the  prosecution  as  witnesses,  who  tes- 
tified merely  what  had  been  told  them  to  say,  but  were  contra- 
dicted so  plainly  during  their  evidence  that  the  court  soon  saw 
that  they  had  been  tampered  with,  and  could  not  possibly  give  any 
weight  to  their  testimony. 

July  II,  1868. 

Appeared  before  the  court  again  today,  and  one  of  the  chief 
conspirators,  Lieut.  W.  B.  Kennedy,  swore  to  everything  he  could 


270 

think  of  that  he  supposed  would  have  any  effect  in  getting  me  out 
of  the  service  in  order  that  he  might  make  a  file  in  case  of  a 
vacancy.  But  the  court  became  so  disgusted  with  Lieutenant 
Kennedy  and  his  negro  witnesses  that  they  made  up  their  minds 
to  close  the  case,  and  appeared  to  regret  that  they  had  allowed 
the  trial  to  proceed,  considering  the  kind  of  evidence  that  has 
come  before  it. 

July  14,  1868. 

I  brought  a  few  witnesses,  reliable  and  trustworthy,  of  the 
best  reputations,  who  contradicted  the  witnesses  Kennedy  and 
the  conspirators  had  picked  up  to  try  and  sustain  the  manufac- 
tured charges  the  court  has  been  investigating,  and  in  order  that 
they'  should  not  be  annoyed  or  delayed  any  further  I  concluded 
to  try  and  make  no  more  defence  and  let  the  matter  drop  where 
it  is,  as  I  do  not  believe  nor  do  I  feel  that  it  is  possible  any  evi- 
dence has  been  deduced  that  will  cause  the  court  to  give  me  even 
a  reprimand. 

Sunday,  July  19,  1868. 

I  sat  up  until  two  o'clock  this  morning,  when  I  went  through 
the  train  that  is  on  its  way  to  St.  Louis  and  stopped  here  for  a  few 
moments,  giving  the  officers  of  the  post  a  chance  to  shake  hands 
with  Generals  Grant  and  Sheridan  and  staff. 

Sheridan  City,  Kan.,  July  22,  1868. 

The  members  of  the  court  all  left  Hays  for  their  posts  day  before 
yesterday,  and  I  was  ordered  to  report  to  my  post  (which  I  expect 
to  reach  tomorrow),  awaiting  promulgation  of  sentence. 

Camp  near  Fort  Wallace,  July  24,  1868. 

I  arrived  here  yesterday,  and  have  met  Colonel  Bankhead,  Fifth 
Infantry,  who  commands  Fort  Wallace.  He  is  not  only  a  soldier, 
but  a  gentleman,  which  is  more  than  I  can  say  of  Major  K— 
and  several  others  who  wear  the  uniform  and  pass  as  such.  I 
bought  a  mustang  pony  today  from  a  California!!  and  started  to 
lead  it  to  my  camp,  when  it  bucked  and  became  so  stubborn  it 
was  impossible  to  make  him  move  until  Lieutenant  Riley  of  the 
Fifth  Infantry  and  Captain  Philey,  my  old  scout,  assisted  me  in 
getting  him  to  camp.  He  was  the  most  obstinate  piece  of  horse- 
flesh I  ever  saw,  but  I  expect,  to  break  him  in  and  make  a  saddle- 
horse  of  him  soon. 


Camp  near  Rose  Creek,  Kan.,  July  25,  1868. 

Lieutenants  Johnson,  Riley  and  Mr.  Todd  from  Saratoga 
Springs  visited  and  invited  me  to  take  a  ride  with  them  this  after- 
noon, and  I  at  once  ordered  my  mustang  saddled,  which  I  at- 
tempted to  ride,  and  finally  succeeded,  after  three  hours  hard 
work  and  several  tumbles.  When  he  would  buck  and  fall  down 
I  would  light  on  my  feet  and  be  on  him  almost  the  moment  he 
was  on  his  feet  again,  until  I  got  him  completely  tired  out,  afford- 
ing a  great  deal  of  amusement  for  my  friends  and  the  soldiers,  who 
seemed  to  enjoy  the  fun. 

Russell  Springs,  Kan.,  August  4,  1868. 

We  started  out  a  little  after  sunrise  this  morning,  marched  until 
twelve  o'clock,  and  got  up  a  horse-race  between  Lieutenant  Beck's 
horse  (Sleepy  Dick)  and  Lieutenant  Amick's  sorrel.  I  was  one 
of  the  judges.  Lieutenant  Beck's  horse  won  easily.  We  had  an 
interesting  time.  Dr.  Sternberg  (now — 1899 — Surgeon-General, 
U.  S.  A.)  and  I  had  a  race  returning  to  our  camp,  and  I  lost  a 
basket  of  wine,  as  my  mustang  concluded  to  buck  just  as  I  thought 
I  was  about  to  win  the  race. 

Walker  Station,  August  18,  1868. 

A  dispatch  came  today  stating  that  ten  families  had  just  been 
massacred  and  a  great  many  emigrants  killed  by  the  Indians  ;  also 
news  that  Hon.  Thad.  Stevens  had  just  died.  I  managed  to  get  a 
good  supply  of  vegetables  for  my  mess  when  I  left  Hays,  but  ex- 
pect to  leave  them  soon  if  we  go  on  light  marching  order. 

News  has  just  arrived  that  Comstock,  my  old  guide  and  scout, 
has  been  killed  by  the  Indians.  It  is  a  surprise  to  us  all,  as  he 
was  considered  so  cautious  and  such  a  careful  man.  In  him  we 
have  lost  one  of  the  most  valuable  scouts  on  the  plains. 

One  hundred  and  thirty  mules  were  driven  off  from  near  Hays 
last  night  by  the  Indians.  Lieutenant  Beecher,  Fifth  Infantry, 
and  his  scouts  have  gone  in  pursuit.  Settlers  are  rushing  into  our 
camp  with  the  rumor  that  the  Indians  threatened  to  drive  every- 
one out  of  this  country  and  to  stop  the  work  on  the  railroad. 

Camp  on  Big  Timber,  August  21,  1868. 

Major  Kidd  (who  is  still  in  command)  failed  to  pay  attention 
to  the  advice  of  Wild  Bill,  our  scout  and  guide,  in  regard  to  the 
course  we  should  take  when  we  left  camp  yesterday,  he  appearing 


272 

to  know  more  about  the  country  than  those  who  have  lived  there 
for  years.  Under  the  circumstances,  he  has  marched  out  of  his 
course  at  least  five  or  ten  miles  without  prospect  of  finding  any 
Indians. 

August  22,  1868. 

Colonel  Keogh,  Seventh  Cavalry,  arrived  at  three  o'clock  this 
afternoon  and  gave  orders  to  Major  Kidd  to  have  me  imme- 
diately released  from  arrest  and  placed  in  command,  with  in- 
formation that  I  had  been  honorably  acquitted  by  the  court.  I 
ordered  my  mules  packed,  at  once  inspected  my  command,  and 
have  it  now  in  readiness  for  hard  work. 

August  23,  1868. 

General  Sheridan  and  three  of  his  staff  officers  arrived  today, 
'w.'th  whom  I  had  quite  a  chat.  There  are  several  expeditions  now  in 
the  field  after  Indians,  with  very  little  prospect  of  success  of  catch- 
ing any,  as  the  Indians  are  too  sharp  and  sly  to  be  caught. 


if,  (i 


(/Hi- 


CODY  KILLING  BUFFALO  FOR  SUPPER. 

August  24,  1868. 

We  marched  out  at  sunrise,  met  Colonel  Benteen,  Seventh  Cav- 
alry, en  route  to  Marker.  He  was  relieved  in  the  field  by  Colonel 
Carpenter,  who  marched  twenty-five  or  thirty  miles,  and  has  dis- 
covered quite  a  number  of  Indian  signs.  Bill  Cody  (Buffalo  Bill), 
one  of  our  scouts  and  one  of  the  best  shots  on  the  plains,  keeps  us 
well  supplied  with  plenty  of  Buffalo  and  deer.  He  gets  $60  per 
month  and  a  splendid  mule  to  ride,  and  is  one  of  the  most  con- 
tented and  happy  men  I  ever  met. 


273 

August  27,  1868. 

General  Sheridan  ordered  us  to  turn  in  all  our  tents,  extra  bag- 
gage and  everything  that  was  not  actually  needed  in  the  field,  and 
we  started  out  without  the  sign  of  a  tent  or  change  of  clothing. 

Col.  G.  A.  Forsyth  has  just  organized  a  company  of  fifty  scouts, 
selected  from  the  best  marksmen  and  hunters  on  the  plains.  Gen- 
eral Sheridan  seems  to  be  going  after  the  Indians  in  earnest,  and 
we  will  have  plenty  to  do  soon.  Just  before  Colonel  Forsyth  was 
ordered  to  march  with  his  scouts  he  called  upon  me  to  say  good- 
bye and  seemed  confident  of  being  able  to  whip  all  the  Indians  he 
would  meet  on  the  plains  with  his  select  company  of  scouts,  but 
I  told  him  that  if  he  happened  to  meet  the  Indians  who  had 
whipped  me  a  few  weeks  before  he  would  not  stand  much  show 
with  less  than  two  hundred  picked  men,  as  the  Indians  were  well 
armed  with  the  best  of  weapons  and  were  better  horsemen,  could 
travel  faster  and  knew  the  country  better  than  our  soldiers.  I 
wished  him  good  luck  and  he  bade  me  good-bye. 

Camp  on  Smoky  Hill  River,  August  28,  1868. 
Before  leaving  the  post  this  morning  I  drew  a  quantity  of  rope 
from  the  Quartermaster  to  use  in  tying  my  hardtack  and  bacon 
on  the  mules.  Senator  Conkling  of  New  York,  with  a  large  party 
of  his  friends,  who  are  on  their  way  to  Denver,  stopped  by  our 
post  today.  He  seemed  very  glad  to  see  me  again,  as  he  is  one 
of  my  old  friends. 

Camp  above  Headwaters  of  Walnut  Creek, 

September  2,  1868. 

We  started  out  at  seven  o'clock  this  morning  with  Wild  Bill 
as  our  scout,  and  while  resting  a  few  moments  and  allowing  the 
horses  to  graze  he  came  rushing  in  with  fifteen  of  his  scouts  to 
inform  me  that  a  fresh  Indian  trail  had  been  discovered. 

September  4,  1868. 

After  examining  the  trail  of  Indians  reported,  we  found  it  was 
only  a  burial  party  who  had  just  had  a  funeral  and  placed  the 
body  of  a  war  chief  up  in  a  walnut  tree,  which  our  Post  Surgeon 
was  very  anxious  to  have.  As  soon,  therefore,  as  he  saw  the  In- 
dians were  out  of  reach  he  took  a  six-mule  team  to  the  tree  and 
had  the  body  of  the  Indian,  with  all  the  buffalo  robes  wrapped 

18 


274 

around  it,  placed  in  the  wagon  and  sent  to  Hays  City,  to  be 
shipped  to  the  Smithsonian  Institute.  As  he  had  permission 
from  authority  over  me,  I  could  not  help  myself,  and  was  obliged 
to  let  him  have  one  of  my  wagons  to  carry  out  his  object. 

I  am  afraid  I  am  somewhat  "in  a  little  box,"  as  I  had  openly 
expressed  myself  in  the  presence  of  several  officers  and  friends 
that  I  was  willing  to  eat  all  the  Indians  Major  Kidd  could  capture 
during  this  campaign,  and  as  he  has  secured  this  dead  Indian, 
some  of  the  officers  may  try  to  make  capital  in  order  that  I  shall 
carry  out  my  agreement ;  but  of  course  picking  up  dead  Indians 
was  not  considered  in  the  programme,  and  as  none  of  the  officers 
may  suggest  that  I  be  required  to  eat  the  one  Dr.  Sternberg  has 
just  forwarded  to  Washington,  I  will  not  bring  up  the  question. 

September  8,  1868. 

A  special  escort  was  sent  to  P'ort  Dodge  last  night  for  General 
Sheridan.  A  line  of  messengers  is  now  established  between  Hays 
and  Fort  Dodge.  The  Seventh  Cavalry  are  reported  to  be  near 
an  Indian  village,  and  we  are  hourly  expecting  news  of  a  fight. 
Apache  Bill,  one  of  our  scouts,  was  so  much  under  the  influence 
of  liquor  that  he  had  to  be  put  in  the  guardhouse.  He  is  looked 
upon  with  suspicion  as  inclined  to  aid  the  Indians. 

Fort  Dodge,  September  12,  1868. 

General  Gibbs  and  Lieut.  M.  Moylan,  his  Assistant  Adjutant- 
General,  called  at  our  camp  at  eleven  o'clock  this  morning,  order- 
ing us  to  march  to  Fort  Dodge  at  once.  I  had  been  most  all  night 
watching  my  horses,  and  just  before  roll-call  got  in  a  doze  and 
did  not  hear  the  call,  but  was  soon  waited  upon  by  an  orderly  with 
a  request  from  the  commanding  officer  to  report  in  writing  im- 
mediately my  reason  for  not  attending  roll-call. 

Camp  near  Fort  Dodge,  September  14,  1868. 
News  came  in  last  night  that  six  citizens  had  been  killed  by 
Indians  at  Sheridan  City,  and  General  Gibbs  started  out  at  six 
o'clock  this  morning  to  try  and  find  the  trail.  Major  Douglass  is 
in  command  of  Fort  Dodge,  and  among  the  other  officers  whom  I 
met  there  are  Colonel  Moyland,  Lieut.  Phil  Reed  and  Major 
Sheridan  of  the  Third  Infantry.  We  had  a  very  pleasant  enter- 
tainment at  the  sutler's. 


275 

September  17,  1868. 

I  received  authority  to  be  absent  from  camp  for  two  hours,  dur- 
ing which  time  all  horses  that  needed  shoeing  were  shod  and  my 
company  placed  in  readiness  to  move.  Just  before  sundown  Lieut. 
R.  G.  Smithers,  one  of  the  sneaks  of  the  regiment,  who  is  anxious 
for  a  file,  and  who  is  now  Acting  Adjutant  of  the  battalion,  placed 
me  in  close  arrest  (arrest  No.  14)  without  any  explanation  or 
cause,  leaving  me  ignorant  of  any  ground  for  such  an  arbitrary 
act.  Lieutenant  Bodamer  took  command  of  my  company. 

0 

Camp  near  Fort  Dodge,  Kan.,  September  19,  1868. 
I  have  remained  in  my  tent  since  day  before  yesterday,  and  as 
I  have  sent  in  quite  a  serious  set  of  charges  against  Major  Kidd, 
I  am  in  hopes  that  action  of  some  kind  will  be  taken,  as  he  seems  to 
be  used  by  a  set  of  subordinate  officers,  who  take  advantage  of  his 
weakness  to  have  him  act  on  their  request.  The  limits  of  the 
camp  were  assigned  to  me  this  afternoon.  General  Sully  having 
returned,  I  made  an  application  for  an  interview,  to  whom  I  will 
explain  the  condition  of  affairs  since  Major  Kidd  has  been  in 
command,  and  he,  being  a  soldier,  no  doubt  will  readily  see  it 
will  be  for  the  interest  of  the  service  to  get  rid  of  the  Major. 

September  23,  1868. 

Capt.  W.  Thompson  of  the  Seventh  Cavalry  called  upon  me 
this  afternoon  and  wanted  an  explanation  of  the  circumstances  of 
my  arrest.  As  soon  as  I  explained  what  I  knew  of  the  case  he 
said  he  would  give  attention  to  the  matter  and  help  me,  as  he  is 
an  old  friend  and  I  can  fully  rely  upon  him  as  such. 

September  24,  1868. 

My  brother  Charles  arrived  here  this  morning  from  Fort  Hays 
with  the  news  that  Colonel  Forsyth  and  his  scout  had  been  sur- 
rounded by  Indians ;  that  Lieutenant  Beecher  of  the  Third  In- 
fantry (a  nephew  of  Henry  Ward  Beecher),  had  been  killed,  For- 
syth badly  wounded,  and  more  than  one-half  of  his  men  either 
wounded  or  killed. 

September  25,  1868. 

My  brother  Charles  started  with  dispatches  for  General  Sheri- 
dan today.  After  he  left  I  was  released  from  arrest  by  Gen.  Alfred 
Sully  and  placed  in  command  of  my  company.  A  large  num.- 


276 

her  of  officers  called  to  congratulate  me.  The  rumor  is  out  that 
Major  Kidd  will  soon  be  court-martialed  upon  the  charges  I  sent 
in  some  days  ago,  General  Sheridan  having  lost  all  faith  in  him 
after  trying  him  all  summer  in  command  of  a  battalion  without 
his  accomplishing  anything,  but  mixing  matters  in  a  terrible  state. 

September  27,  1868. 

Captain  Cox,  Lieutenant  Bodamer  and  Lieut.  William  Davis, 
with  seventy-five  men,  went  on  a  scout  up  the  Arkansas  at  six 
o'clock,  and  this  afternoon  orders  came  relieving  Major  Kidd 
from  command  of  the  battalion  and  placing  me  in  command  of 
four  companies  of  cavalry  and  one  of  infantry.  I  at  once  issued 
a  general  order  sending  Lieutenant  Smithers  (who  had  been  Act- 
ing Adjutant)  to  duty  with  his  company,  and  detailed  Lieutenant 
Myers  as  Adjutant  of  the  battalion  in  his  place.  I  then  went  to 
the  post,  where  I  met  several  officers,  who  invited  me  to  supper 
and  set  up  a  basket  of  wine  in  their  appreciation  of  my  success. 

September  28,  1868. 

I  issued  orders  to  day  for  company  and  battalion  drill,  to  take 
effect  every  day,  weather  permitting ;  also  took  off  the  Officer  of 
the  Guard  and  let  the  Officer  of  the  Day  attend  both  duties,  giving 
the  former  more  rest,  for  the  sergeant  of  the  guard  can  perform 
this  duty.  I  sent  Lieutenant  Smithers  with  thirty  men  on  a  scout 
with  two  days'  rations. 

September  30,  1868. 

Captain  Berry  of  the  Seventh  Cavalry  and  Lieutenant  Bodamer 
of  my  battalion  got  up  a  race  today  for  one  mile,  purse  $200,  and 
just  before  the  race  Lieutenant  Bodamer,  while  exercising  his 
horse,  came  in  collision  with  another,  throwing  him  off  and  crip- 
pling his  arm.  We  all  had  a  fine  time.  Captain  Berry's  horse  won 
the  race. 

October  i,  1868. 

When  at  breakfast  this  morning  I  was  startled  by  rapid  firing 
at  General  Sully's  camp,  where  fifty  or  sixty  Indian  warriors  had 
dashed  in  among  the  tents  while  the  men  were  at  breakfast.  The 
six  companies  were  so  surprised  and  excited  that  every  Indian  got 
out  of  the  camp  in  spite  of  the  five  hundred  or  more  shots  being 
fired  at  them,  and  not  one  hurt.  The  same  Indians  captured  a 
wagon  train  of  provisions  and  quartermaster  stores  coming  to  the 


277 

post,  set  the  wagons  on  fire  and  took  off  forty-four  mules,  and  in 
less  than  ten  minutes  I  was  sent  after  the  Indians  with  Companies 
F  and  G  of  my  command,  but  just  as  I  was  about  to  charge  into 
their  village,  after  pursuing  them  thirty  miles,  a  special  messenger 
from  General  Sully  overtook  me  with  orders  to  halt  my  command 
where  1  was  until  further  orders,  and  at  twelve  o'clock  this  noon 
orders  came  for  me  to  select  forty  men  and  continue  and  pursue 
them.  I  soon  discovered  a  fresh  trail  going  toward  the  village, 
and  at  once  sent  for  reinforcements,  as  I  found  it  would  be  impos- 
sible to  accomplish  anything  with  only  forty  men  in  case  I  should 
surprise  the  village. 

Camp  near  Fort  Dodge,  Kan.,  October  2,  1868. 
As  the  reinforcements  I  asked  for  yesterday  were  not  sent,  I 
returned  to  camp  at  two  o'clock  this  afternoon,  after  a  march  of 
forty-five  miles.  War  parties  of  Indians  are  all  around  us  and 
committing  all  kinds  of  depredation  possible,  and  not  one  of  the 
Indians  has  been  caught  or  killed  in  spite  of  the  large  number  of 
troops  at  the  different  points  in  the  Department. 

Camp  near  Kidder's  Ranch,  October  3,  1868. 
The  command  started  out  at  sunrise  this  morning.  I  was 
Officer  of  the  Day  and  remained  in  charge  of  the  train,  five 
wagons  of  which  stuck  in  the  Arkansas  river  while  we  were  trying 
to  ford  it.  One  of  mine  turned  over  in  the  river,  and  several  boxes 
of  hardtack  were  carried  off  by  the  current,  which  was  very 
strong.  It  took  twelve  mules  to  each  wagon  to  get  them  across, 
as  the  quicksand  was  very  bad  in  some  places.  We  have  marched 
over  forty  miles,  and  it  was  after  sundown  before  we  reached  this 
camp. 

October  9,  1868. 

WTe  started  out  at  sunrise,  and  it  is  now  after  9  P.  M.  Have 
been  marching  and  scouting  over  the  plains  looking  for  signs  of 
Indians,  but  failed  to  find  any.  Met  Lieut.  John  F.  Weston,  Sev- 
enth Cavalry,  who  is  on  a  scout.  He  is  a  bright,  active  young 
man,  and,  judging  from  his  appearance,  will  make  his  mark  if  the 
opportunity  is  offered.  [He  is  now  (1899)  Acting  Commissary- 
General,  U.  S.  A.] 


278 

After  marching  my  company  over  sixty  miles  I  reached  camp 
at  ten  this  P.  M. 

Camp  on  Arkansas  River,  October  n,  1868. 

The  command  started  this  A.  M.  for  Fort  Lyon,  C.  T.,  and  it  is 
in  splendid  condition.  After  a  march  of  thirteen  miles  my  horses 
appear  a  little  fagged,  and  I  am  proud  to  say  that,  in  spite  of  the 
hard  work  we  have  had  in  the  last  march,  I  have  not  lost  a  horse 
or  mule  since  I  started  on  this  campaign. 

October  16,  1868. 

We  have  been  marching  steadily  along.  Before  leaving  camp 
this  A.  M.  Lieut.  R.  G.  Smithers  was  placed  in  arrest  by  Captain 
Byrne  for  insolence  and  disrespect.  We  saw  a  great  many  Indian 
signs  today,  but  did  not  get  a  shot  at  any  Indians. 

October  17,  1868. 

We  did  not  start  out  of  camp  until  ten  this  A.  M.,  and  have 
placed  guards  on  each  side  of  the  command  to  keep  from  being 
surprised  by  the  Indians,  who  are  watching  every  movement  we 
make,  and  will  take  advantage  to  murder  the  first  man  caught 
alone  or  steal  anything  they  can.  I  ran  several  warriors  today,  but 
their  ponies  are  so  swift  that  I  found  it  impossible  for  my  horses 
to  overtake  them,  and  I  dare  not  go  too  far  in  their  country  for 
fear  of  an  ambush,  which  they  are  likely  to  have  in  case  they  can 
draw  us  from  the  main  command. 

Camp  on  Old  Fort  Lyon,  C.  T.,  October  19,  1868. 

We  left  camp  at  6.20  this  A.  M.,  arriving  here  at  3  P.  M.  Found 
the  old  fort  or  buildings  on  fire  and  plenty  of  fresh  signs  of  Indians 
all  around  us.  We  only  marched  twenty  miles,  and  arrived  just  in 
time  to  put  the  fire  out.  The  post  having  been  abandoned,  the 
Indians  concluded  to  burn  the  buildings,  but  our  arrival  was  just 
in  time  to  save  them. 

New  Fort  Lyon,  C.  T.,  October  20,  1868. 

We  started  out  at  8  this  A.  M.,  reaching  this  post  at  I  P.  M.  I 
was  introduced  to  Gen.  William  Penrose  and  Lieutenants  Abel 
and  Bonsall,  who  have  just  left  my  tent,  inviting  me  to  come  and 
see  them. 

General  Penrose  is  to  take  command  of  our  four  companies  of 
cavalry,  and  he  notified  us  that  we  would  have  to  start  in  five  days, 
without  wagons  or  forage,  on  a  sixty  days'  expedition. 


279 

Fort  Lyon,  C.  T.,  October  21,  1868. 

Our  train  of  mules  and  wagons  were  all  turned  in  to  the  Post 
Quartermaster  today,  and  Lieut.  William  Beck,  our  Battalion 
Quartermaster,  was  ordered  to  report  to  General  Penrose,  who 
will  attach  him  to  his  staff.  I  drew  ordnance  and  clothing  for  my 
men,  and  have  my  company  ready  to  move  in  an  hour's  notice. 
Both  my  Lieutenants  are  detailed,  and  I  am  alone  with  my  com- 
pany. Have  all  of  the  papers  to  make  out,  attend  to  the  other  duties, 
requiring  all  my  time,  and  orders  have  been,  issued  for  officers  to 
be  present  at  every  roll-call.  It  makes  my  duty  quite  severe,  not 
having  more  than  from  two  to  five  hours  in  the  twenty-four  to 
sleep. 

November  2,  1868. 

During  the  last  few  days  we  have  been  practicing  at  target,  pre- 
paring for  a  general  campaign,  under  which  we  expect  to  start  at 
a  moment's  notice,  as  General  Sheridan  has  formed  several  ex- 
peditions to  try  and  surround  the  Indians  and  destroy  the  village 
if  possible.  Gen.  William  Penrose,  who  commanded  a  division  of 
the  Sixth  Corps  during  the  war,  has  been  placed  in  command  of 
my  battalion,  consisting  of  four  companies  of  cavalry  and  one  of 
infantry,  and  as  he  was  successful  during  the  war,  he  has  led  Gen- 
eral Sheridan  to  believe  he  will  be  a  success  now,  but  my  impres- 
sion is  he  will  prove  a  failure  if  he  undertakes  to  march  without 
forage  for  the  animals  through  the  Indian  Territory  and  New 
Mexico,  where  the  grass  is  very  scarce. 

November  5,  1868. 

Lieutenant  Beck,  Mr.  Powers  and  I  rode  up  the  picket-wire 
about  five  miles  above  Fort  Lyon  last  evening,  where  I  ate  my 
first  genuine  supper,  which  was  very  good.  Mr.  Powers  was  a 
contractor  at  Lyon,  and  married  a  Cheyenne  squaw.  He  is  al- 
lowed 640  acres  for  every  child  that  is  born.  He  has  established 
his  home  on  the  picket-wire,  and  furnishes  beef  for  the  different 
posts  from  his  herds  of  cattle.  He  introduced  us  to  his  five 
papooses,  as  he  calls  them,  who  are  very  interesting  children,  and 
as  he  proposes  to  remain  in  this  section  the  balance  of  his  days, 
his  future  prospects  are  favorable  to  make  him  a  millionaire.  He 
is  now  one  of  the  most  prominent  men  in  this  section. 


280 

C.  T.,  November  11,  1868. 

Before  marching  out  of  camp  this  morning  I  left  all  my  private 
property  with  the  Post  Quartermaster  and  sent  my  father  $360, 
retaining  about  $50  for  personal  expenses.  As  the  chances  are 
that  we  may  never  return  alive,  I  have  made  my  preparations 
accordingly. 

In  the  Field,  November  13,  1868. 

General  Penrose  has  placed  a  whole  company  on  guard  at  a 
time  in  order  that  we  shall  not  be  surprised  by  the  Indians  during 
the  night.  I  had  the  command  of  the  left  flank  all  day,  and  we 
marched  twenty-one  miles  without  any  signs  of  Indians. 

November  15,  1868. 

We  started  out  at  nine  this  A.  M.,  and  as  a  heavy  snowstorm 
came  up,  we  went  into  camp  after  marching  twelve  miles.  No 
sign  of  wood  or  fuel  of  any  kind  to  cook  our  coffee.  I  have  just 
found  a  place  under  the  rocks  to  spread  my  blanket,  hoping  to  get 
a  little  rest  tonight.  Twenty-five  horses  of  the  rear  guard  gave 
out  and  were  shot  during  the  day  in  order  that  the  Indians  may 
not  use  them.  The  lack  of  forage  has  caused  the  horses  to  break 
down,  and  if  we  undertake  to  march  much  further  we  will  soon 
be  afoot. 

Camp  on  Old  Fort  Lyon,  Cimaron,  C.  T., 

November  16,  1868. 

We  started  out  at  8  A  .M.  I  had  the  advance  with  my  com- 
pany; marched  twenty-four  miles.  My  company  was  placed  on 
guard  this  evening,  as  we  take  turns  by  companies. 

November  17,  1868. 

We  started  out  at  8  this  A.  M.  Major  Vandeverle  relieved  me 
from  picket  duty.  Fourteen  horses  were  shot  this  morning  to  pre- 
vent them  from  falling  into  the  hands  of  the  Indians.  We  have 
plenty  of  grass  and  wood  tonight,  and  fresh* Indian  signs  have 
been  discovered. 

Camp  on  Cimaron,  New  Mexico,  November  19,  1868. 

Left  camp  at  8  this  A.  M.,  and  only  marched  sixteen  miles  dur- 
ing the  day,  as  we  had  some  very  rough  mountains  to  cross. 
Found  fresh  signs  of  buffalo  and  Indians.  Have  plenty  of  water, 
grass  and  wood  in  our  camp  this  evening. 


28l 

Camp  on  the  Arbray,  Col.,  Read  near 

Cimaron  Crossings,  November  20,  1868. 

We  only  marched  twenty  miles  today,  and  without  any  signs  of 
Indians.  Thirteen  horses  were  shot  during  the  march  today. 
Captain  Byrne  is  the  senior  officer  of  the  battalion  next  in  rank  to 
General  Penrose.  He  has  been  very  arbitrary  in  his  actions.  A 
very  severe  snow  is  now  raging,  and  we  are  making  ourselves  as 
comfortable  as  possible  by  trying  to  find  shelter  under  rocks. 
There  being  no  grass  or  grain  for  the  animals,  they  are  now  sub- 
sisting on  cotton-wood  bark.  My  men  killed  a  few  rabbits  this 
evening,  which  were  considered  quite  a  treat,  but  they  had  to  be 
eaten  raw,  there  being  no  dry  wood  that  could  be  used  to  cook 
them. 

Camp  near  Red  River,  November  22,  1868. 

Left  camp  at  8  this  A.  M.,  and  have  been  following  a  trail  all 
day.  Some  think  the  trail  we  are  on  is  the  one  made  by  Gen. 
Joseph  E.  Johnston  in  1865,  with  his  Confederate  Army. 

Bear  Creek,  I.  T.,  November  27,  1868. 

We  did  not  move  out  until  9  this  A.  M.,  and  the  picket  horses 
and  mules  were  almost  frozen,  as  the  weather  is  very  cold.  It  is 
ii  P.  M.,  and  we  have  just  arrived  here  after  a  march  of  thirty- 
six  miles.  Lieutenant  Smithers  was  in  charge  of  the  dismounted 
men.  Fifteen  horses  and  four  mules  were  shot  today.  Scouts 
reported  a  Mexican  ox  train  near  here.  The  Mexicans  are  hunt- 
ing buffalo,  so  we  are  pretty  certain  of  something  to  eat  tomorrow 
besides  mule  meat,  as  we  have  been  on  less  than  half  rations  for 
the  past  few  days. 

November  28,  1868. 

We  sent  out  and  had  the  mules  counted  over,  and  found  sixty 
missing,  which  the  Indians  had  gotten  away  with.  Not  having 
horses  to  pursue  them,  we  found  it  impossible  to  undertake  the  re- 
capturing of  the  stock.  After  following  them  ten  or  fifteen  miles, 
we  returned  to  the  camp. 

MacNeese  Creek,  Texas,  November  29,  1868. 
The  command  started  out  of  camp  at  8  this  A.  M.,  and  by  9  met 
a  Mexican  train,  of  which  General  Penrose  took  charge.    We  put 
our  packs  in  the  train  and  let  such  men  as  could  not  march  ride  in 


282 

the  Mexican  wagons,  but  the  wagons  were  so  heavily  loaded  with 
stores  and  the  sand  so  deep  that  it  seemed  impossible  for  the  cat- 
tle to  pull  their  loads  through  it  until  our  men  turned  in  and 
helped.  During  the  day  the  sun  came  out  so  hot  that  the  bulls 
soon  had  their  tongues  out  panting,  and  it  seemed  almost  impos- 
sible to  make  any  headway.  Dr.  Boggs  took  Sergeant  Evans  of 
my  troop  and  fifteen  men  to  go  with  this  bull  train. 

Middle  Fork  Beaver  Creek,  Texas,  November  30,  1868. 

Private  l>rown,  who  was  so  badly  wounded  by  the  Indians,  died 
last  night.  Drs.  Kilburn  and  Pearse  laid  him  out.  We  gave  him 
a  military  funeral  this  afternoon  and  buried  him  on  the  prairie 
near  the  creek. 

Camp  Hackberry,  December  i,  1868. 

We  started  out  of  camp  at  8  this  A.  M.,  and  soon  discovered  a 
fresh  trail  of  Indians,  which  General  Penrose  followed  with  Com- 
pany F  at  a  gallop,  intending  to  capture  the  Indians  in  a  few 
moments,  but  he  did  not.  It  was  interesting  to  watch  his  ac- 
tions ;  he  became  so  excited  and  so  confident.  We  have  plenty  of 
wood,  grass  and  water  tonight.  Seventeen  of  the  horses  were  shot 
during  the  march  today. 

Camp  on  Huckleberry  Creek,  Texas,  December  2,  1868. 

Considering  we  have  plenty  of  wood,  water  and  buffalo  around 
us.  the  General  decides  to  let  the  command  rest  today,  and  he  and 
the  scouts  went  out  and  killed  four  large  buffalo.  We  are  cut  down 
to  three  hardtack  a  day,  as  our  bread  is  nearly  gone,  therefore  we 
live  principally  on  buffalo  meat. 

Camp  near  Beaver  Creek,  Texas,  December  3,  1868. 

Captain  Byrne  became  very  arbitrary  and  took  advantage  of 
his  position  as  senior  Captain  of  my  battalion  to  place  me  in  ar- 
rest (arrest  No.  15).  I  immediately  preferred  charges  against  him, 
and  General  Penrose  placed  him  also  in  arrest.  The  General  sent 
Lieutenant  Abel  with  Company  L,  Seventh  Cavalry,  to  Fort 
Lyon  after  rations,  and  I  was  allowed  to  go  also.  We  marched 
twenty-five  miles  today. 

Camp  on  McNee  Creek,  December  4,  1868. 

We  marched  all  day  without  water,  but  are  in  a  dry  camp  to- 
night. Our  command  consists  of  forty-four  enlisted  men,  with 
Lieutenants  Abel,  Seventh  Cavalry;  Beck,  Tenth  Cavalry, 


283 

A.  Q.  M.,  and  myself.  We  have  five  scouts,  named  Robert  Bent, 
Mr.  Boggs,  Higths,  Marion  Ottaby  and  Captain  Mann,  besides  six 
mule-packers.  We  are  well  armed  and  can  defend  ourselves 
against  any  number  of  Indians  we  are  liable  to  meet.  All  we  fear 
is  that  our  grub  will  give  out  before  we  reach  Fort  Lyon.  We 
marched  thirty-eight  miles  today. 

Cimaron,  near  Santa  Fe,  New  Mexico,  December  5,  1868. 

After  we  started  out  this  A.  M.  I  suggested  to  Lieutenant  Abel 
that  we  ought  to  kill  a  few  buffalo  and  pack  the  meat  on  mules 
for  fear  we  might  get  out  of  rations,  but  he  was  afraid  the  shots 
might  draw  the  Indians  and  did  not  act  on  my  suggestion.  Ot- 
taby, however,  knowing  how  much  we  were  really  in  need  of  meat, 
and  being  the  advance  scout,  shot  three  buffalo,  which  he  dropped 
at  the  first  shot  at  each.  The  command  were  so  anxious  for  fresh 
meat  that  the  men  soon  had  the  hind  quarters  cut  up  in  small 
chunks,  and  each  man  held  on  to  his  own  piece.  Tonight  we  are 
relishing  what  we  have,  and  are  indebted  to  Ottaby  for  our  luck. 
Just  before  we  reached  camp  it  began  to  snow,  and  we  are  trying 
to  make  ourselves  as  comfortable  as  possible,  considering  that  we 
have  no  shelter  of  any  kind. 

December  6,  1868. 

It  has  been  snowing  all  night,  and  we  are  scarcely  able  to  march 
today  on  account  of  the  crust  being  just  thick  enough  to  break 
through,  cutting  the  men's  feet  and  the  legs  of  the  animals  so  as 
to  leave  a  trail  of  blood,  many  of  the  men  being  barefoot.  We  are 
now  in  camp  with  scarcely  anything  to  eat  after  marching  thirty- 
five  miles. 

Butts'  Creek,  December  8,  1868. 

As  we  were  entirely  out  of  rations,  we  left  camp  at  daybreak  this 
morning,  and  by  ten  o'clock  came  to  a  creek  with  plenty  of  good 
water  and  wood,  where  we  built  fires,  and  as  we  were  almost  in  a 
starving  condition,  it  was  decided  to  select  one  of  the  fattest  pack 
mules  for  distribution  among  the  men.  It  was  not  long  before  they 
had  most  of  it  cut  up,  and  some  of  the  men  were  holding  pieces  of 
the  mule  on  the  end  of  sticks  over  the  fire  roasting  it  while  it 
seemed  to  be  still  kicking,  but  it  was  juicy  and  sweet,  and  af- 
forded us  great  relief  in  our  starving  condition.  I  had  one  piece 
on  the  end  of  a  stick,  and  while  it  was  broiling  it  looked  as  if  it 
was-  kicking,  and  it  was  as  much  as  I  could  do  to  keep  it  on  the 


284 

stick,  but  under  the  circumstances  I  did  not  stop  to  consider 
whether  it  was  mule,  buffalo  or  beefsteak.  It  was  amusing  to  see 
one  of  the  men  with  the  ears,  which  he  seemed  at  a  loss  to  know 
how  to  cook,  but  he  managed  to  make  a  stew  of  them  which 
satisfied  his  hunger.  I  had  a  little  shelled  corn  roasted,  which  1 
used  in  the  place  of  bread,  and  enjoyed  a  hearty  meal,  after  which 
we  marched  twelve  miles  further,  and  are  now  within  fifty-eight 
miles  of  Fort  Lyon.  Robert  Bent,  Captain  Mann,  Hugh  Evans 
and  I,  with  one  pack-mule,  started  out  at  4  this  A.  M.,  and  have 
marched  steadily  along  most  of  the  day,  hoping  to  reach  the  post. 
We  now  feel  encouraged,  as  we  expect  to  reach  Fort  Lyon  in  the 
morning,  where  we  can  get  plenty  of  coffee,  bread,  milk,  etc.  We 
have  marched  sixty  miles  since  our  last  meal,  which  was  of  mule 
meat  and  corn. 

Fort  Lyon.  C.  T.,  December  10,  1868. 

After  marching  most  of  last  night,  I  reached  this  post  at  9 
A.  M.,  and  in  time  to  enjoy  a  hearty  breakfast  with  Mr.  Hatch, 
our  postmaster,  who  handed  me  a  large  mail,  a  collection  of  over 
four  months.  The  Chaplain  called  on  me  at  12  o'clock,  when  we 
reported  at  the  Adjutant's  office,  where  he  introduced  us  to  Col. 
Richard  Lay,  Third  Infantry,  who  is  not  only  a  soldier,  but  a  per- 
fect gentleman.  Major  Kirk,  the  postmaster,  invited  me  to  dine 
with  him,  but  I  declined.  News  of  General  Custer's  fight  with 
Black-kettle's  band  and  the  killing  of  Major  Elliot,  Captain  Ham- 
ilton and  nineteen  men  is  about  the  only  news  of  importance  here. 

December  n,  1868. 

I  have  been  fixing  up  my  quarters  and  answering  letters  most 
of  the  day.  I  dined  with  Colonel  Lay  and  Major  Kirk  (Quarter- 
master), who  live  like  kings,  with  everything  the  market  can 
afford.  Lieutenant  Beck  went  to  Fort  Hays  by  stage.  Mr. 
Ottaby  and  two  scouts  started  out  to  find  General  Carr,  who  is  in 
command  of  the  Fifth  Cavalry,  and  who  is  ordered  to  General 
Penrose's  rescue,  he  being  entirely  out  of  rations  and  unable  to 
move  his  command,  which  is  mostly  on  foot. 

Fort  Lyon,  C.  T.,  December  20,  1868. 

Went  to  church  at  n  A.  M.,  but  Chaplain  Collins  had  no  ser- 
vice, as  he  did  not  feel  like  preaching  to  me  alone,  there  being 
no  one  else  present.  This  afternoon  I  rode  up  the  picket-wire 
with  Colonel  Lay,  the  Post  Commander,  and  called  on  Robert 
Bent  and  Mr.  Power.  The  latter  introduced  me  to  his  wife,  and 
he  brought  out  his  four  little  girls.. 


December  22,  1868. 

Lieutenant  Briggs,  Third  Infantry,  relieved  me  as  Officer  of  the 
Day.  No  news  from  General  Penrose,  who  is  in  a  terrible  con- 
dition seventy-five  or  one  hundred  miles  from  the  post. 

December  24,  1868. 

No  news  from  General  Penrose.  Report  came  in  this  evening 
that  Indians  have  made  a  raid  and  murdered  some  people  at  Pond 
Creek  City  and  drove  off  a  large  amount  of  stock. 

December  25,  1868. 

Lieutenant  Shellabarger  and  I  fixed  ourselves  up  in  style  and 
called  on  the  Post  Commander,  Colonel  Lay,  then  went  to  the 
sutler's  store,  where  we  met  Major  Casey,  Lieutenant  Abel  and 
quite  a  little  party  of  friends.  We  indulged  in  eggnogg  and  wine 
for  a  few  hours,  then  made  the  round  of  calls.  Everyone  seemed 
happy. 

December  28,  1868. 

About  ii  A.  M.  a  small  group  could  be  discovered  with  our 
glasses  out  on  the  prairie,  and  upon  a  close  investigation  we  soon 
found  it  to  be  a  few  men  of  the  long-lost  command  of  General 
Penrose,  who  was  on  the  other  side  of  the  river  coming  into  the 
post.  They  had  been  met  by  a  party  with  rations,  so  they  did  not 
suffer  from  hunger,  but  the  men  were  in  a  terrible  condition,  many 
of  them  barefooted,  with  scarcely  any  clothes  of  any  description, 
and  all  the  men  on  foot,  the  horses  having  starved  to  death  or 
been  killed  during  the  expedition.  Lieutenant  Whiten  of  the 
Fifth  Infantry  arrived  with  a  train  of  sixteen  wagons,  and  is  stop- 
ping with  me  as  my  guest. 

December  29,  1868. 

Lieutenant  Whiten  had  his  'train  unloaded  as  soon  as  possible, 
and  after  breakfast  we  went  horseback  riding.  Upon  our  return 
we  dined  with  Major  Casey  in  the  old  style.  We  called  on  Colonel 
Lay,  Lieutenant  and  Mrs.  Bonsil,  Major  Kirk,  Mrs.  General  Pen- 
rose,  Mrs.  Lieutenant  Hanna  and  Lieutenant  Abel. 

December  29,  1868. 

Have  been  in  the  house  most  of  the  day.  Lieutenants  Hanna 
and  Shellabarger  assisted  me  on  my  company  papers.  Lieu- 
ten  Whiten  started  back  for  Wallace  early  this  morning  with  his 
train.  Lieutenant  Abel  and  Lieutenant  Bonsil  started  to  look  for 
General  Carr's  command,  which  had  been  sent  out  to  look  for 
General  Penrose,  but  lost  him,  and  now  we  are  trying  to  find  Gen- 
eral Carr  and  his  command. 


CHAPTER  VII. 

Fort  Lyon,  C.  T.,  January  10,  1869. 

Colonel  Craig-,  quite  a  wealthy  gentleman,  who  lives  between 
here  and  Denver,  made  us  a  visit  with  Colonel  Francisco  and  Mr. 
Spencer,  General  Boone's  son-in-law. 

A  ranchman  by  the  name  of  Eaton,  with  his  sweetheart,  came 
to  t'he  post  today  to  get  married.  Chaplain  invited  several  of  the 
officers  and  ladies  to  be  present  to  witness  the  ceremony,  which 
we  greatly  enjoyed  as  a  novelty. 

February  18,  1869. 

General  Penrose,  Lieutenants  Beck  and  Hanna  came  in  about 
one  o'clock  yesterday,  leaving  the  command  eighty  miles  off, 
which  is  slowly  marching  this  way.  A  majority  of  the  men  are 
barefooted  and  on  foot.  Most  all  the  horses  and  mules  gave  out 
and  were  shot  to  prevent  their  falling  in  the  hands  of  Indians. 
General  Carr,  in  command  of  the  Fifth  Cavalry,  and  Colonel 
Crittenden  arrived  this  afternoon.  They  have  gone  into  camp 
near  the  post. 

February  19,  1869. 

What  is  left  of  the  Tenth  Cavalry  came  straggling  into  the  post 
this  afternoon,  forlorn-looking  specimens  of  humanity.  Mrs. 
Penrose,  Mrs.  Beck  and  T  rode  out  to  their  camp  this  afternoon 
on  horseback  and  witnessed  the  most  pitiful  sight  we  ever  saw. 
The  men  were  partly  frozen  ;  their  pants  had  been  burned  and 
worn  off,  and  many  had  not  changed  their  clothing  for  weeks  and 
months.  Lieut.  William  Davis  is  in  command  of  my  company 
and  has  issued  clothing  for  the  men  today. 

February  24,  1869. 

General  Carr  returned  my  call  and  spent  most  of  the  evening 
talking  over  my  case,  in  which  he  seems  greatly  interested. 

February  28,  1869. 

Brevet  Colonel  and  Captain  Lay  inspected  and  mustered  the 
whole  command  at  this  post  this  afternoon.  It  was  interesting  to 
see  him  require  General  Penrose  to  march  his  company  past  him 
in  review,  he  (Penrose)  wearing  the  uniform  of  a  Brigadier-Gen- 
eral and  Colonel  Lay  only  the  straps  of  a  Captain.  It  created 


287 

considerable  talk  in  relation  to  Generals,  Penrose  ranking-  as 
Brevet  Brigadier- General  and  junior  Captain  to  Colonel  Lay, 
who  is  the  senior  Captain  of  the  regiment.  It  is  rather  galling  to 
Penrose  to  pass  as  Brigadier-General  and  have  to  serve  under  a 
Captain . 

March  13,  1869. 

After  breakfast  Lieutenant  Bonsall  and  I  walked  over  to  the 
post  sutler's  store,  where  we  met  Lieutenant  Hays  of  the  Fifth 
Cavalry,  who  informed  me  that  orders  had  just  come  releasing 
me  from  arrest.  I  immediately  went  to  my  camp  and  assumed 
command  of  the  battalion.  Rode  out  with  the  ladies  of  the  post 
this  evening  as  soon  as  the  dress  parade  was  over. 

Camp  near  Fort  Lyon,  C.  T.,  March  15,  1869. 

Yesterday  I  moved  my  command  a  short  distance  from  the  post, 
establishing  a  separate  camp.  Had  general  inspection  today,  and 
found  the  camp  in  a  rather  dilapidated  condition. 

I  lost  several  thousand  dollars  on  account  of  being  denied  leave 
of  absence  for  t\venty  days,  with  permission  of  extension  of  fifteen 
days,  and  as  the  Indian  campaign  was  over,  I  saw  no  good  reason 
for  not  being  allowed  to  go,  only  spite  work. 

Fort  Lyon,  C.  T.,  March  16,  1869. 
Bvt.  Maj.  G.  A.  Amies, 

Commanding  Det.  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry: 

Dear  Sir — I  enclose  the  order  or  letter  which  you  so  kindly  per- 
mitted me  to  address  to  the  officers  and  men  of  your  command. 
Allow  me  to  extend  my  sincere  thanks  to  you  for  the  opportunity 
you  thus  give  me  of  expressing  my  feelings  toward  the  com- 
rades whom  I  have  had  the  honor  of  commanding.  Will  you 
allow  or  have  this  letter  read  to  the  command  at  the  first  oppor- 
tunity? 

I  am,  Major,  with  great  respect,  your  obedient  servant, 

WM.  H.  PENROSE, 
Capt.  and  Bvt.  Brig.-Gen.,  U.  S.  A. 

Fort  Lyon,  C.  T.,  March  14,  1869. 
Officers  and  Soldiers  of  the  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry: 

Having1  been  relieved  from  command  before  an  opportunity  was 
given  me  to  promulgate  an  official  farewell,  I  take  occasion, 
through  the  courtesy  of  your  commanding  officer,  of  taking  leave 
of  you. 


288 

You  started  from  this  post  on  an  important  mission  under  many 
disadvantages.  Your  horses  were  in  poor  condition,  and  you  were 
to  march,  without  forage,  to  penetrate  a  new,  and  before  unknown, 
country.  Hardly  had  you  started  when  you  encountered  severe 
storms  of  rain  and  snow,  accompanied  by  intense  cold;  you  were 
without  suitable  and  necessary  shelter  for  such  inclement  weather; 
your  horses  perished  day  by  day,  you  yourselves  suffering  from 
the  intense  cold,  many  with  frostbitten  hands  and  feet;  but 
through  these  hardships  and  difficulties  you  pushed  nobly  on, 
undaunted,  undismayed,  anxious  to  meet  the  enemy. 

But  few  commands  have  ever  been  called  upon  to  endure  more 
than  you  have,  and  none  have  more  cheerfully  performed  their 
duty. 

Although  it  was  not  your  fortune  to  meet  and  engage  the 
enemy,  vet  this  movement  was  a  part  of  a  grand  plan,  emanating 
from  that  great  soldier,  Major-General  Sheridan. 

You  were  instrumental  in  compelling  a  large  force  of  the  enemy 
to  make  a  retrograde  movement,  and  there  appears  to  be  no  doubt 
that  this  was  the  identical  force  which  Bvt.  Major-General  Custer 
was  thus  enabled  to  encounter  and  destroy.  Your  efforts  were 
therefore  of  material  service  in  the  winter  campaign. 

Had  you  had  the  opportunity  T  am  fully  assured  you  would 
have  maintained  in  battle  the  honor  of  the  flag  and  of  your  regi- 
ment 

To  the  officers  and  men  who  so  nobly  stood  with  me  in  our 
most  difficult  task  T  extend  my  kindest,  heartfelt  thanks,  and 
wherever  you  may  go  my  kindly  interest  shall  be  with  you  in  all 
your  undertakings.  May  success  crown  all  your  efforts! 

Respectfully, 

W.  H.  PENROSE, 

Capt  and  Bvt.  Brig.-Gen.,  U.  S.  A., 
Late  Commander  Indian  Expedition  from  Fort  Lyon,  C.  T. 

March  17,  1869. 

A  few  of  the  Fifth  Cavalry  got  in  a  dispute  with  some  of  my 
men  at  the  post  theater,  pistols  were  drawn  and  a  few  shots  fired. 
Two  men  of  Major  Cox's  company,  G,  were  wounded  in  the  row. 
Within  one  hour  the  Fifth  Cavalry  had  turned  out  to  attack  my 
battalion.  T  reached  camp  just  in  time  to  prevent  quite  a  serious 
affair.  Had  the  long  roll  and  officers'  call  sounded,  and  instructed 
the  officers  to  call  their  companies  in  line  immediately,  have  a 
check  roll-call  and  not  allow  a  man  to  leave  the  camp  until  further 
orders. 

Tn  that  way  T  prevented  the  Fifth  Cavalry  battalion  coming  in 
contact  with  mine.  Men  on  both  sides  appeared  to  be  desperate, 


289 

and  it  required  all  my  time  and  careful  watching  to  prevent  a  ter- 
rible conflict.  After  everything"  was  over  General  Carr  came  over 
and  congratulated  me  for  the  success  and  management  of  my 
command. 

March  18,  1869. 

Having  received  orders  to  report  to  Fort  Dodge,  Kan.,  about 
two  hundred  miles  below  here  on  the  Arkansas  river,  east  of  this 
post,  I  have  been  preparing  for  the  march.  We  started  with  my 
command,  composed  of  four  companies  of  cavalry,  thirty-one 
wagons  and  two  ambulances  ;  marched  five  miles,  and  went  into  a 
camp  on  the  banks  of  the  river,  where  we  have  plenty  of  grass  and 
fine  fishing. 

Camp  at  Old  Fort  Lyon,  C.  T.,  March  20,  1869. 

I  marched  out  of  camp  with  all  the  bugles  playing  at  eight  this 
morning.  Nearly  all  the  men  are  on  foot,  their  horses  having 
been  lost  during  the  last  campaign  with  General  Penrose,  but 
upon  our  arrival  at  Fort  Dodge  we  will  be  supplied.  Lieut.  Wm. 
Beck  is  my  Quartermaster;  Lieut.  Myers,  Adjutant;  Captain  A. 
O.  Badger,  Commissary,  and  Dr.  Kilburne,  Surgeon,  so  I  have  a 
very  nice  and  complete  staff.  Marched  thirteen  miles,  and  have 
gone  into  a  pleasant  camp. 

Camp  near  Sand  Creek,  March  21,  1869. 

Moved  the  command  at  eight  this  morning.  During  the  march 
Lieutenant  Smithers  killed  three  splendid  buffaloes,  which  we  dis- 
tributed among  the  camp  upon  our  arrival  this  evening.  We  also 
killed  twenty  hogs  out  of  a  herd  of  three  hundred  wild  ones.  We 
inarched  twenty-one  miles  today. 

March  22,  1869. 

We  moved  at  eight  this  A.  M.  Lieutenant  Davis,  who  re- 
mained behind  for  the  mail,  arrived  with  a  large  supply,  over- 
taking us  today.  Lieutenant  Myers  killed  three  buffaloes  this 
afternoon,  and  while  attempting  to  kill  the  fourth  one  his  horse 
fell,  hurting  him  severely.  The  officers  and  a  few  soldiers  of  the 
command  killed  twenty-five  buffaloes,  one  antelope,  four  ducks 
and  two  jack-rabbits  this  afternoon. 

Camp  at  Pleasant  Station,  C.  T.,  March  23,  1869. 
Started  out  at  eight  this  morning  in  quite  a  snowstorm  and 
marched  only  eight  miles.     Lieutenant  Davis,  one  of  the  best 

19 


2  QO 

shots  in  the  command,  killed  three  buffaloes,  four  ducks,  two 
antelopes  and  one  rabbit,  and  I  had  quite  a  variety  of  meat  for 
my  dinner.  There  being  very  little  fuel  and  nothing  but  snow  and 
mud,  we  are  in  a  very  uncomfortable  position  this  evening. 

As  the  storm  was  quite  severe  yesterday,  we  concluded  to  re- 
main in  camp.  I  did  not  leave  until  8  this  morning.  On  account 
of  previous  storms  it  was  impossible  to  march  more  than  twenty 
miles.  Weather  is  very  pleasant  this  evening,  and  we  have  plenty 
of  wood  and  grass. 

Camp  on  the  Arkansas  River,  March  26,  1869. 
We  marched  at  8  this  morning,  and  at  n  halted  the  command 
to  allow  the  men  to  kill  ducks,  as  thousands  seem  to  be  along  the 
river. 


THE  MARCH. 

Camp  in  the  Field  on  the  Arkansas,  March  28,  1869. 

Left  camp  at  8  this  A.  M.,  and  after  marching  sixteen  miles 
selected  a  camp  for  the  command. 

I  sent  Lieutenant  Smith ers,  Mr.  Reed's  quartermaster  clerk, 
and  Mr.  Newton  of  Fort  Lyon  to  Fort  Dodge  with  the  mail  and 
after  rations  and  forage  for  the  command.  Major  Cox  and  I  are 
having  quite  a  controversy  on  paper. 

Camp  near  Fort  Dodge,  Kan.,  March  31,  1869. 
I  moved  the  command  out  at  7  this  A.  M. ;  marched  seventeen 
miles.  After  reaching  camp  I  rode  to  the  fort,  where  I  met  Major 
Douglass  of  the  Third  Infantry,  who  is  in  command.  He  seemed 
very  glad  to  see  me.  I  also  met  a  number  of  friends  whom  I  had 
not  seen  for  months. 


29 1 

April  2,  1869. 

Moved  my  command  near  the  post  immediately  after  the  guard- 
mounting  today.  Major  Cox  having  left  camp  without  permis- 
sion, I  found  it  necessary  to  place  him  in  close  arrest.  Lieutenant 
Beck  had  some  trouble  issuing  tents,  and  becoming  rather  in- 
subordinate, caused  me  to  place  him  in  arrest  also. 

April  3,  1869. 

Major  Cox  broke  his  arrest  during  last  night  and  went  to  the 
post,  where  he  became  so  drunk  and  boisterous  I  found  it  neces- 
sary to  send  a  guard  after  him  and  bring  him  into  camp.  General 
Custer  left  for  Fort  Hays  with  his  command,  the  Seventh  Cav- 
alry and  Nineteenth  Kansas  Volunteers,  today. 

April  4,  1869. 

Captain  Rogers,  Acting  Quartermaster  at  Fort  Dodge,  sent  me 
a  number  of  horses  for  my  command  today,  but  as  most  of  them 
were  of  no  service,  I  ordered  a  board  of  survey,  consisting  of  Van- 
dewele,  Captains  Myrick  and  Badger,  who  gave  them  a  full  in- 
spection, recommending  that  only  one-third  be  retained,  sending 
back  the  rest  to  Captain  Rogers.  I  have  disappointed  Captain 
Rogers,  as  he  expected  to  put  off  a  lot  of  his  old  stock  of  horses 
on  my  battalion. 

Walnut  Creek,  Kan.,  April  6,  1869. 

Received  permission  to  visit  Fort  Hays,  and  left  during  the 
night ;  changed  mules  at  Buckner's  ranch  and  drove  along  lively, 
making  sixty-four  miles ;  weather  pleasant. 

Fort  Hays,  Kan.,  April  7,  1869. 

Arrived  here  at  one  o'clock  this  morning.  Stopped  all  night  at 
the  sutler's  and  slept  on  the  billiard  table,  which  I  found  very  com- 
fortable under  the  circumstances,  being  so  tired  out. 

I  exchanged  my  old  ambulance  for  a  new  one.  Met  General 
Schofield  for  the  first  time.  He  is  in  command  of  the  Department. 
I  sold  my  building  at  Hays,  which  cost  $1500,  to  Mr.  Wilson  for 

$325- 

Camp  near  Fort  Dodge,  Kan.,  April  9,  1869. 
Arrived  at  one  o'clock  this  morning.  Was  up  at  seven  o'clock. 
Gave  orders  to  prepare  to  march  at  eleven  o'clock  tomorrow  to 
Camp  Supply.  I  sent  a  dispatch  to  Assistant  Adjutant-General 
McKeever  this  evening,  stating  I  was  ready  to  march  in  the  morn- 
ing. I  also  sent  off  a  number  of  copies  of  the  Denver  Rocky  Moun- 


292 

tain  News  to  my  friends,  publishing  the  general  order  by  General 
Carr  the  day  before  I  left  Fort  Lyon,  with  its  comments,  which  I 
feel  quite  proud  of  under  the  circumstances,  retaining  the  follow- 
ing copy : 

"The  Tenth  Cavalry  Complimentary   Order  by  Brevet   Major- 

General  Carr. 

Headquarters  Expedition  from  Fort  Lyon, 

Camp  at  Fort  Lyon,  C.  T.,  March  14,  1869. 
General  Order  No.  24. 

Part  IV — The  Brevet  Major- General  Commanding  desires  to 
express  to  the  officers  and  men  of  the  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry,  lately 
serving  with  him,  approbation  of  their  excellent  deportment  and 
cheerful  endurance  of  the  unusual  hardships  of  this  winter  cam- 
paign. By  command  of 

BVT.  MAJ.-GEN.  E.  A.  CARR. 
(Signed)         J.  ALMY, 
Second  Lieut,  and  A.  A.  A.  G. 

The  four  companies  of  the  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry,  now  stationed 
at  Fort  Lyon,  in  this  Territory,  have  been  ordered  to  Fort  Dodge, 
Kan.,  where  they  will  refit  and  be  mounted.  They  will  then  pro- 
ceed via  Camp  Supply,  I.  T.,  to  Medicine  Bluff  creek,  the  new  post 
established  by  General  Sheridan  upon  the  Comanche  and  Kiowa 
Reservation. 

It  will  be  the  special  duty  of  this  regiment  to  prevent  the  Indians 
from  leaving  their  reservation,  and  from  that  point,  thoroughly 
equipped  and  finely  mounted,  they  can,  in  a  moment's  notice,  dash 
after  Indians  in  that  section  and  inflict  summary  punishment. 

The  following  is  a  roster  of  the  officers  of  the  battalion: 

Capt.  and  Bvt.  Maj.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  commanding  detachment; 
Second  Lieut.  J.  Will  Myers,  Adjutant;  First  Lieut.  Wm.  H.  Beck, 
Regimental  Quartermaster.  A.  A.  Q.  M.;  First  Lieut,  and  Bvt. 
Capt.  A.  D.  Badger,  Regimental  Commissary,  A.  C.  S.;  Acting 
Asst.  Surg.  H.  S.  Kilbourne,  Surgeon;  Capt.  and  Bvt.  Maj. 
Charles  C.  Cox,  commanding  K  Troop;  First  Lieut,  and  Bvt. 
Capt  John  D.  Myrick,  commanding  B  Troop;  First  Lieut.  Robt. 
G.  Smithers,  First  Lieut.  John  A.  Bodamer,  Second  Lieut.  Saml. 
R.  Collady,  commanding  F  Troop. 

We  are  informed  by  an  officer  of  the  battalion  that  during  the 
last  ten  months  it  has  marched  nearly  3000  miles,  embracing  in 
their  operations  Kansas,  Colorado,  New  Mexico,  Indian  Territory 
and  Texas,  and  ranging  over  a  territory  of  200,000  square  miles, 
or  500  miles  north  and  south  by  400  miles  east  and  west. 

There  is  no  regiment  in  the  service  which  has  done  harder  or 
more  effective  service  against  the  Indians  during  the  late  war  than 
the  gallant  men  and  officers  of  the  Tenth  Cavalry." 


293 

April  10,  1869. 

Last  evening  the  wife  of  Lieutenant  Beck  pleaded  so  strongly  in 
his  behalf,  and  after  his  apologizing  and  agreeing  to  control  his 
temper  in  the  future,  I  released  him  from  arrest  and  assigned  him 
to  duty  with  a  troop,  detailing  Captain  My  rick  as  my  assistant 
Quartermaster  in  his  place.  At  n  o'clock  this  forenoon,  after 
obtaining  twenty  extra  wagons  from  Captain  Rogers,  I  moved 
my  command  over  the  river,  and  am  now  in  a  splendid  camp. 

Camp  near  Bluff  Creek,  April  13,  1869. 

Left  camp  at  9  o'clock  this  morning  and  marched  twenty  miles ; 
weather  pleasant.  After  going  into  camp  this  evening  Johnson 
of  K  Troop  came  in  with  a  dispatch  from  headquarters  ordering 
me  to  remain  at  Dodge. 

Camp  near  Fort  Dodge,  April  15,  1869. 

I  inarched  back  yesterday  towards  this  post,  and,  leaving  the 
command  in  camp,  came  in  ahead  of  it  this  evening.  I  met  Colonel 
Mitchell,  formerly  of  General  Hancock's  staff  during  the  war. 
He  is  sent  here  to  inspect  the  Tenth  Cavalry. 

Camp  near  Fort  Dodge,  April  18,  1869. 

After  inspection  this  morning  I  sent  a  report  of  the  command 
to  the  Post  Commander  at  Dodge,  reporting  for  orders  in  person, 
and  was  informed  that  it  was  unnecessary  to  keep  my  battalion 
longer,  and  each  company  commander  might  report  to  the  post. 
Therefore  I  immediately  relieved  the  guard  around  my  camp  and 
attended  the  stable  call  with  my  troop  this  afternoon. 

The  said  report  follows : 

Headquarters  Tenth  Cavalry, 
Camp  near  Fort  Dodge,  Kans.,  April  17,  1869. 
Bvt.  Brig.-Gen.  C.  McKeever, 

A.  A.  General,  Dept.  Missouri: 

General — I  have  the  honor  to  make  the  following  report  of  the 
scout  made  by  this  detachment  during  the  last  twelve  months: 

On  the  1 5th  day  of  April,  1868,  this  battalion,  then  consisting 
of  Companies  B,  C,  F.  G,  H  and  K,  Tenth  Cavalry,  under  com- 
mand of  Maj.  M.  H.  Kidd,  marched  from  Fort  Riley,  Kans.,  and 
on  the  2.|th  day  of  the  same  month  arrived  at  Fort  Hays,  Kans., 
a  distance  of  150  miles. 


294 

May  25  the  line  of  march  was  taken  up  for  Fort  Wallace,  and 
on  June  3  that  post  was  reached,  a  distance  of  140  miles. 

1  he  command  went  into  camp  a  few  miles  west  of  the  post,  and 
remained  there  and  scouted  the  surrounding  country  until  the  In- 
dian outbreak  upon  the  Saline  and  Solomon  rivers. 

The  grazing  was  very  poor,  and  that,  with  the  excessive  heat 
and  the  arduous  character  of  the  duties  the  horses  were  called 
upon  to  perform,  kept  them  very  thin  in  flesh,  and  upon  the  open- 
ing of  the  campaign  they  were  far  from  being  in  a  serviceable  con- 
dition. 

August  3  the  battalion  moved  down  the  Smoky  Hill  river  to  a 
point  opposite  Sheridan  City,  and  upon  the  1 1  th  day  of  the  month 
started  for  Skimmerhorn's  Ranch,  upon  the  Saline,  reaching  that 
place  upon  the  23d. 

The  day  following  the  command  marched  up  the  Saline  and 
scouted  the  country  to  the  Solomon  and  to  a  point  opposite  Hays 
City,  when  the  march  changed  to  the  south,  and  Hays  City  was 
reached  on  the  24th  of  the  month,  a  distance  of  334  miles. 

After  turning  in  the  tents  and  the  greater  part  of  the  camp 
equipage,  and  placing  the  surplus  clothing  of  the  men  in  store  at 
Fort  Fiays,  the  command  marched  to,  and  proceeded  to  scout,  the 
valley  of  Walnut  creek,  and  was  engaged  upon  this  duty  until  the 
1 2th  day  of  September,  when,  having  received  orders  to  march  to 
Fort  Dodge,  the  line  of  march  was  taken  up  for  that  post,  where 
the  command  arrived  upon  the  evening  of  the  I4th.  Distance 
marched,  250  miles. 

Whilst  encamped  near  this  post  several  scouts  were  made  by 
detachments  of  die  battalion — B  Troop  escorting  wagon  trains 
to  the  camp  of  the  Seventh  Cavalry  and  return,  distance  140  miles; 
K  and  G  Troops  up  the  valley  of  the  Arkansas  and  return,  dis- 
tance 140  miles. 

Several  other  small  scouts  were  made  by  the  different  companies 
of  the  command.  In  almost  every  case  but  half  forage  was  taken, 
and.  this  lack  of  proper  food  began  to  tell  very  severely  upon  the 
animals. 

September  28  Major  Kidd  was  relieved,  and  Captain  Byrne, 
Tenth  Cavalry,  assigned  to  the  command  of  the  battalion. 

October  8  started,  with  half  forage,  to  scout  the  valley  of  the 
Pawnee;  was  recalled  on  the  loth,  having  marched  the  greater 
portion  of  the  night  preceding.  The  command  was  fatigued  con- 
siderably when  it  reached  the  post.  Scarcely  had  the  horses  been 
unsaddled  when  "boots  and  saddles"  were  sounded,  and  the  whole 
command  was  marched  on  the  gallop  in  the  pursuit  of  supposed 
Indians  about  twenty  miles,  when  the  chase  was  given  up,  and  the 
battalion  returned  to  camp. 

On  the  following  day,  with  half  allowance  of  forage,  the  march 
was  taken  up  for  Fort  Lyon,  which  place  was  reached  on  the  2Oth. 
Distance  marched,  inclusive,  317  miles. 


295 

On  the  nth  day  of  November  the  battalion,  consisting  of  Com- 
panies B,  F,  G  and  K,  Fort  Lyon,  C.  T.,  went  on  an  Indian  expe- 
dition under  the  command  of  Capt.  and  Bvt.  Brig.-Gen.  W.  H. 
i'enrose,  Third  Infantry. 

On  the  morning  of  taking  the  field,  as  indicated,  the  horses, 
though  thoroughly  acclimated,  familiar  with  and  habituated  to 
cavalry  duty,  were  thin  and  in  no  condition  to  undergo  and  endure 
the  hardships  incident  to  such  an  expedition. 

The  battalion  marched  destitute  of  everything,  except  rations, 
essential  to  its  efficiency,  without  a  change  of  clothes,  proper  med- 
ical supplies  and  appointments,  with  no  tents  for  the  officers,  with- 
out a  particle  of  forage  for  public  or  private  horses,  and  with  but 
thirty  days'  rations  for  the  men. 

On  the  3Oth  of  November  the  command  found  itself  on  half 
rations  of  bread,  bacon,  sugar  and  coffee,  without  clothing,  and 
in  many  instances  nearly  naked.  Several  of  the  men  with  badly 
frosted  feet,  and  half  of  the  whole  command  with  rags  tied  about 
their  feet,  in  lieu  of  boots,  camped  on  Palo  Duro  creek,  Indian  Ter- 
ritory, awaiting  supplies  from  some  source. 

During  this  time  the  troops  were  docile,  tractable  and  perfectly 
subordinate.  No  soldiers  ever  behaved  better  or  endured  with 
less  complaint. 

Up  to  this  time  no  good  grazing  had  been  allowed  our  animals, 
and  to  this  fact  may  be  attributed  the  general  and  humiliating  loss 
of  stock. 

Upon  the  arrival  of  General  Carr's  command,  matters  changed. 
An  expedition  was  organized  by  that  officer  to  scout  the  country 
to  the  main  Canadian.  By  exchanging  boots  and  clothing,  it  was 
found  possible  to  put  TOO  men  of  the  Tenth  Cavalry  in  the  field, 
and  those  men,  mounted  on  mules  from  the  pack  train,  accom- 
panied the  expedition. 

This  party  joined  the  main  command  on  the  nth  of  January, 
and  en  the  iQth  day  of  February  the  expedition  returned  to  Fort 
Lyon,  having  been  in  the  field  101  days. 

From  thence,  on  the  iSth  of  March,  we  started  to  Medicine  Bluff 
Creek,  I.  T.,  via  this  post.  At  that  time  the  train  furnished  this 
command  with  the  transportation  of  its  material  was  composed  of 
the  mules  which  had  lived  through  the  hardships  and  exposure 
referred  to,  and  were  utterly  incompetent  to  haul  ordinary  weights 
loaded  in  Government  wagons;  yet  when,  on  this  account,  appli- 
cation was  made  to  Brevet  Major-General  Carr  for  additional 
transportation  necessary  for  the  benefit  of  the  command,  I  was 
ordered  to  carry  knapsacks,  sabers  and  carbines  in  dismounted 
march,  contrary  to  the  usage  of  service,  and  in  total  disregard  of 
the  fact  that  many  of  the  men  were  suffering  from  frosted  feet  and 
from  the  effects  of  the  long  march  of  the  expedition  indicated,  be- 
ing unaccustomed  to  foot  marching.*  On  my  arrival  here  I  found 

*General  Sheridan  did  not  in  this  case  exhibit  the  practical  in- 
sight and  judgment  for  which  he  has  usually  been  credited. 


296 

some  seventy-eight  (78)  horses  entirely  unserviceable,  which  I 
was  compelled  to  take,  although  I  have  no  saddles  or  horse  equip- 
age, and  which  1  am  compelled  to  lead  with  ropes,  and  1  am 
obliged  to  borrow  wagons  to  haul  the  forage  necessary  to  subsist 
the  animals.  Requisitions  were  made  while  at  Fort  Lyon  for 
everything  necessary  to  arm  and  properly  equip  the  command, 
but  they  have  not  yet  been  honored. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Capt.  Tenth  Cavalry, 
Bvt.  iVIaj.,  U.  S.  A., 
Commanding  Det. 

April  28,  1869. 
The  Indians  are  now  stealing  and  running  off  stock  in  every 

section.    They  will  soon  be  on  the  warpath  in  full  force. 

* 

April  30,  1869. 

I  turned  out  the  command  at  9  o'clock  this  morning.  One  man 
was  found  fault  with  by  the  inspector,  Major  Sheridan,  who  in- 
spected and  mustered  the  command.  I  was  put  on  a  council  with 
Major  Cox  and  Lieutenant  Stough  today.  We  examined  and 
priced  all  the  goods  at  the  post  traders'.  Maj.  Andrew  Sheridan, 
after  mustering  the  command,  went  to  the  trader's  and  became  so 
drunk  he  had  to  be  carried  to  his  quarters  on  a  stretcher.  I  put 
two  of  my  scouts  in  the  guardhouse  today,  and  had  to  take  their 
pistols  away  from  them  on  account  of  drunkenness  and  firing  at 
random  around  the  camp.  I  have  fixed  all  my  company  papers 
and  muster-rolls,  which  have  gone  forward. 

May  5,  1869. 

Major  Cox  interfered  in  behalf  of  the  scouts  today,  and  I  found 
it  necessary  to  place  him  in  close  arrest,  and  finally  had  to  put  a 
guard  over  him. 

May  6,  1869. 

Major  Cox  made  a  special  request  that  T  extend  his  limits  of 
arrest  as  far  as  the  post  in  order  that  he  might  get  married  this 
evening.  We  were  greatly  surprised,  as  he  only  met  Mrs.  Scott 
a  few  day  ago,  and  her  husband,  Captain  Scott,  had  only  been 
dead  a  short  time.  The  priest,  performed  the  ceremony,  and  most 
everyone  at  the  post  witnessed  the  marriage.  I  sent  my  minstrel 
troop  to  furnish  music  for  the  occasion.  We  had  a  glorious  time. 


297 

May  n,  1869. 

Major  Page  called  upon  me  this  afternoon  and  brought  a  Dutch 
Captain. by  the  name  of  Clous  with  him  from  the  Thirty-eighth 
Infantry,  who  seems  to  have  cheek  enough  to  take  him  anywhere. 
Clous  is  with  his  regiment  on  his  way  to  Texas. 

Fort  Dodge,  Kan.,  May  14,  1869. 

I  took  all  the  pistols  away  from  the  citizen  employes,  as  there 
has  been  too  much  drinking  lately  to  allow  the  men  to  be  trusted 
with  firearms  while  in  camp. 

May  15,  1869. 

Lieut. -Col.  A.  D.  Nelson,  U.  S.  A.,  arrived  this  morning  and 
took  command  of  the  Tenth  Cavalry,  and  all  extra-duty  men  were 
relieved  at  once  from  the  post. 

Buckner's  Ranch,  May  20,  1869. 

I  left  Fort  Dodge  on  leave  of  absence  at  9  o'clock  this  morning, 
arriving  here  at  2  o'clock  this  evening. 

I  had  a  pleasant  ride,  and  am  now  quartered  for  the  night  in  a 
dugout,  which  is  a  good  protection  from  the  Indians,  who  are  on 
the  warpath  and  looking  for  a  chance  to  secure  scalps. 

Leavenworth  City,  Kan.,  May  24,  1869. 

I  sent  my  escort  back  yesterday,  and  last  night  I  went  in  Major 
Kimball's  ambulance  to  the  depot,  where  I  took  the  train  at  10.30 
and  arrived  here  at  4  this  afternoon.  Colonel  Taylor,  Paymaster, 
U.  S.  A.,  whom  I  have  not  seen  for  several  years,  has  been  as- 
signed to  duty  at  this  post. 

May  25,  1869. 

I  reported  to  General  Schofield,  who  commands  the  Depart- 
ment, being  stationed  at  Fort  Leavenworth,  for  orders  at  n 
o'clock  this  morning.  General  Mitchell,  his  Assistant  Adjutant- 
General,  told  me  to  report  back  tomorrow  morning  at  8  or  10 
o'clock  and  my  orders  would  be  decided  upon. 

May  28,  1869. 

Called  on  General  Schofield,  who  told  me  to  remain  at  this  post 
until  further  orders. 

Lee  Summit,  Mo.,  May  29,  1869. 

I  left  on  the  9  o'clock  train  this  morning;  stopped  in  Kansas 
City  for  dinner.  Arrived  here  at  3  this  afternoon.  I  hired  a 
buggy  and  drove  out  to  Mr.  Tennyson's,  who  was  my  father's 
overseer  before  the  war.  He  is  located  here,  has  accumulated  a 


298 

large  amount  of  property,  and  is  now  one  of  the  most  prominent 
citizens  of  this  section. 

Topeka,  Kan.,  June  4,  1869. 

Received  orders  yesterday  sending  me  to  Fort  Harker  under 
arrest  (arrest  No.  16,  court  No.  4).  After  arriving  here  Governor 
Crawford  invited  me  to  take  a  drive  with  him  around  the  suburbs 
of  this  beautiful  city. 

Fort  Harker,  Kan.,  June  5,  1869. 

Governor  Harvey  of  Kansas  arrived  today,  and  we  called  on 
several  of  the  officers  and  their  families.  He  being  my  guest,  I 
introduced  him  to  quite  a  number  of  my  friends. 

June  7,  1869. 

I  called  upon  Gen.  Nelson  A.  Miles.  Mrs.  Miles  looks  like  a 
young  bride  and  is  beautiful.  She  invited  me  to  stay  to  tea  and 
I  accepted.  The  General  was  a  special  friend  of  mine  during  the 
war,  under  whom  I  served  part  of  the  campaign  in  front  of  Peters- 
burg in  1864.  He  is  as  social  and  pleasant  an  officer  as  I  have 
met  for  many  a  day.  Although  a  full  Golonel  of  the  Fifth  Infan- 
try, he  does  not  assume  as  many  airs  as  a  Lieutenant.  Captain 
Rawlston  of  the  Third  Cavalry  is  here  with  twenty  men  on  his 
way  to  Camp  Beecher. 

June  9,  1869. 

Lieutenant  Abel,  Seventh  Cavalry,  left  yesterday  with  his  troop 
for  Schemerhorn  Ranch  on  the  Saline  river.  Captain  Berry,  Sev- 
enth Cavalry,  reported  here  in  arrest,  and  is  now  messing  with 
Lieutenant  Shellabarger,  who  is  ordered  before  a  court  for  trial. 
Captain  Berry  and  Lieutenant  Shellabarger  are  great  chums,  and 
both  of  them  feeling  rather  lively  this  morning,  came  to  my  room 
before  I  was  up  and  we  had  quite  a  scuffle.  Colonel  Thompson, 
Seventh  Cavalry,  and  Lieutenant  Wallingford  arrived  this  morn- 
ing as  witnesses  in  the  Shellabarger  and  Berry  case. 

It  having  been  reported  to  me  by  the  best  of  authority  that 
Maj.  Lewis  Merrill,  often  called  a  shirk  in  my  former  regiment 
(the  Second  Cavalry),  always  being  detailed  on  some  fancy  dut}r, 
avoiding  any  risk  of  his  carcass  in  the  field  with  his  regiment, 
had  done  all  he  could  to  try  to  prevent  General  Cooke's  favorable 
action  in  relation  to  my  capture  of  the  village  of  Indians  in  the 
fall  of  1866,  and  had  gone  so  far  as  to  state  that  he  had  regretted 
issuing  the  order.  I  immediately  requested  the  truth,  and  re- 
ceived the  following  reply : 


299 


I  finally  made  Major  Merrill  apologize  and  deny  that  he  ever 
made  such  a  statement  in  the  presence  of  several  officers  at  Fort 
Harker. 

Junction  City,  Kan.,  June  26,  1869. 

We  have  had  a  tremendous  freshet  for  the  last  few  days.  A 
large  number  of  persons  were  drowned  last  night,  and  thirteen 
of  those  drowned  at  Chapman's  creek  were  buried  this  evening. 

The  water  is  sweeping  through  the  streets  of  this  city,  and  flats 
between  here  and  the  Blue  river  are  overflowing.  This  is  one  of 
the  largest  freshets  that  has  ever  occurred  in  this  State. 

Ellsworth,  Kan.,  July  2,  1869. 

Lieutenant  Sheppard  was  brought  before  the  court,  and  had 
quite  an  exciting  time.  Colonel  Inman,  Post  Quartermaster,  and 
Major  Cox  are  assisting  him.  Captain  Schneider,  Major  Parker 
and  Lieutenant  Keyser  of  the  Third  Infantry  are  prosecuting  the 
case.  Lieutenant  Cook  is  defending  him. 


301 

Fort  Marker,  Kan.,  July  8,  1869. 

Yesterday  Captain  Berry  was  granted  a  three  months'  leave, 
and  left  here  this  evening.  Lieutenant  Bell  put  in  a  plea  of 
insanity,  and  the  court  has  appointed  a  board  to  examine 
into  the  circumstances.  I  had  a  very  pleasant  and  social 
chat  with  General  Miles  this  evening.  Chaplain  Van  Wycke  and 
I  are  the  best  of  friends,  and  are  together  most  of  the  time.  Lieut. 
Wallingford  of  the  Seventh  Cavalry  was  brought  before  the  court 
today,  creating  considerable  excitement. 

July  19,  1869. 

Yesterday  afternoon  Mr.  Boyd  and  his  men  came  from  Ells- 
worth and  brought  with  them  Wild  Joe,  who  had  robbed  a  man 
of  $11,000  the  night  before.  Lieutenant  Shellabarger  appeared 
before  the  court  today.  I  was  notified  to  hold  myself  in  readiness 
as  a  witness,  but  was  not  called. 

(Extract  from  Ziegler's  letter.) 

Ruggles  and  Donohue  are  still  here.  Colonel  Taylor  came  in 
from  the  West  last  week.  He  speaks  of  you  in  the  most  compli- 
mentary terms,  and  says  that  it  is  only  your  ability  as  an  officer 
which  leads  the  others  to  persecute  you  as  they  do.  Be  watchful 
and  hold  your  own.  Your  rank  is  rarely  attained  by  one  so  young 
as  yourself,  and  I  hope  to  see  you  hold  your  place  and  rise  in  the 
future  as  rapidly  as  you  have  done  in  the  past.  I  am  glad  to 
know  that  Shellabarger  came  out  all  right. 

July  21,  1869. 

After  the  trial  of  Lieutenant  Shellabarger  was  closed  Major 
'  Cox  obtained  permission  to  make  a  motion  in  his  own  defense, 
which  failed  to  have  any  effect  on  the  court.     The  court  ad- 
journed until  August  4. 

July  27,  1869. 

General  Miles  entertained  the  Peace  Commissioners,  who  are 
on  their  way  to  Camp  Supply,  I.  T.,  to  fix  up  a  treaty  with  the 
Indians. 

July  30,  1869. 

Yesterday  Hon.  E.  A.  Dodge  and  lady  and  Mr.  Brown  arrived 
here  and  were  entertained  by  Chaplain  George  P.  V^an  Wycke. 
We  took  them  around  the  post,  which  they  examined  thoroughly, 
and  semed  pleased  with  their  visit.  They  left  this  morning  by 
way  of  Fort  Hays,  Kan.,  on  their  way  to  Camp  Supply,  I.  T.,  and 
other  points  in  the  W'est. 


302 

August  3,  1869. 

Apache  Bill  was  shot  through  the  breast  by  a  Texan  about  2 
o'clock  this  afternoon,  and  is  hardly  expected  to  live.  I  went  with 
Dr.  Fryer  to  see  him  this  evening. 

August  6,  1869. 

Major  Cox  was  brought  before  the  court  this  morning,  and 
his  application  for  thirty  days'  delay  was  granted.  The  principal 
excuse  was  to  get  witnesses.  The  court  closed  today  as  if  there 
was  nothing  to  do  for  thirty  days. 

Before  I  came  to  Fort  Marker,  after  a  short  stay  in  Leaven- 
worth,  General  Schofield  ordered  me  to  report  here  in  arrest  for 
trial  before  the  court  convened  for  the  trial  of  several  other  of- 
ficers, and  soon  after  arriving  I  was  furnished  with  the  formal 
charges  and  specifications  for  neglect  of  duty,  etc.,  for  not  bring- 
ing the  conduct  of  Major  Cox  to  the  notice  of  superior  authori- 
ties, also  with  the  following  order  giving  the  names  of  the  court 
before  which  I  was  ordered  for  trial,  and  which  I  was  anxious 
to  appear  before,  as  I  had  served  with  and  knew  personally  most 
every  officer  on  the  court ;  but  from  what  I  could  learn  Col.  Lewis 
Merrill,  the  Judge-Advocate,  managed  to  keep  me  from  appearing 
before  the  court,  as  he  was  confident  he  could  not  convict  me  on 
the  charges  Schofield  had  manufactured. 

Headquarters  Department  of  the  Missouri, 

Fort  Leavenworth,  Kans.,  May  28,  1869. 
Special  Orders  No.  87 — Extract. 

II — A  General  Court-Martial  is  hereby  appointed  to  meet  at 
Fort  Marker,  Kans.,  on  Tuesday,  the  8th  day  of  June,  1869,  at  IO 
o'clock  A.  M.,  or  as  soon  thereafter  as  practicable,  for  the  trial  of 
such  prisoners  as  may  be  properly  brought  before  it. 

Detail  for  the  Court — Bvt.  Maj.-Gen.  N.  A.  Miles,  Col.  Fifth 
U.  S.  Inf.;  Bvt.  Brig.-Cen.  M.  C.  Bankhead,  Capt.  Fifth  U.  S.  Inf.; 
Bvt.  Maj.  D.  H.  Brotherton,  Capt.  Fifth  U.  S.  Inf.;  Bvt.  Lieut.- 
Col.  W.  Thompson,  Capt.  Seventh  U.  S.  Cav. ;  Bvt.  Lieut.-Col. 
M.  W.  Keogh,  Capt.  Seventh  U.  S.  Cav.;  Capt.  G.  W.  Yates,  Sev- 
enth U.  S.  Cav.;  Bvt.  Capt.  Henry  Meinell,  First  Lieut.  Third  U. 
S.  Arty. :  First  Lieut.  Chas.  Morris,  Fifth  U.  S.  Inf. ;  First  Lieut. 
Michael  O'Brien,  First  U.  S.  Arty.;  Judge  Advocate,  Bvt.  Col. 
Lewis  Merrill,  Maj.  Seventh  U.  S.  Cav. 

No  other  officers  than  those  mentioned  can  be  assembled  with- 
out manifest  injury  to  the  service. 
By  command  of 

MAJOR-GENERAL  SCHOFTELD. 
(Signed)         CHAUNCEY  MCKEEVER, 

Asst.  Adjt.-Gen. 


3°3 

General  Schofield,  feeling  that  he  could  not  get  me  convicted 
before  General  Miles'  court,  issued  an  order  sending  me  back  to 
my  post. 

August  14,  1869. 

Lieutenant  McDonald  of  the  Fifth  Infantry  and  I  had  quite  a 
discussion  in  relation  to  my  allowance  about  quarters.  Lieu- 
tenant Borden  wanted  mine  for  his  family. 

Fort  Dodge,  Kan.,  August  17,  1869. 

I  received  orders  from  Department  headquarters  to  report  at 
Camp  Supply,  I.  T.,  night  before  last.  Major  Parker  let  Major 
Cox  and  myself  have  four  fresh  mules  for  the  ambulance,  six  for 
the  team  and  three  extra  men  as  an  escort  to  protect  us  from  the 
Indians  from  Fort  Larnard  to  this  place.  We  left  at  u  this  fore- 
noon, marched  fifty-five  miles,  and  reached  here  at  9  o'clock  this 
evening.  Lieutenant  Reed  and  I  have  made  arrangements  to 
start  for  Camp  Supply  in  the  morning. 

Bluff  Creek,  I.  T.,  August  18,  1869. 

General  Brooke,  commanding  Fort  Dodge,  Kan.,  gave  me  a 
four-mule  wagon  instead  of  an  ambulance  to  ride  in,  and  we  had 
quite  a  dispute  over  it.  I  declined  to  accept,  stating  that  I  would 
buy  my  own  private  transportation,  when  he  reminded  me  of  the 
fact  that  he  ranked  me  a  peg  or  two ;  that  he  had  ridden  in  Army 
wagons  for  hundreds  of  miles,  glad  to  have  even  a  wagon  to  ride 
in ;  that  he  was  not  going  to  violate  orders  by  allowing  officers  to 
ride  in  spring  wagons  any  longer,  and  therefore  it  was  impossible 
to  give  me  one  under  the  circumstances.  I  secured  a  good  saddle 
horse,  placed  my  baggage  in  the  escort  wagon  and  rode  horse- 
back, and  am  now  comfortably  fixed  in  camp  in  spite  of  General 
Brooke. 

Camp  Supply,  I.  T.,  August  20,  1869. 

I  took  a  cup  of  coffee  at  daybreak  and  left  Buffalo  Springs, 
reaching  Beaver  Creek  about  8  A.  M.  I  then  left  my  escort,  gal- 
loped in  to  the  post  and  reported  for  duty  to  Col.  A.  D.  Nelson, 
who  received  orders  this  P.  M.  to  report  to  a  new  post  in  Nevada. 
This  leaves  Major  Page  of  the  Third  Infantry  in  command  of  this 
post. 


304 

August  21,  1869. 

I  had  mounted  drill  this  afternoon,  with  my  new  horses  and 
saddles,  which  gave  general  satisfaction  and  make  ihe  men  feel 
more  contented.  Little  Raven  and  Yellow  Bear,  Arapahoe  In- 
dian chiefs,  lunched  with  me  today  and  witnessed  the  drilling  of 
my  troops,  which  greatly  pleased  them. 

August  22,  1869. 

I  had  mounted  inspection  at  8  this  A.  M.  and  breakfast  with 
Mr.  Tracy.  We  called  on  Mr.  Curtis  at  his  camp  in  the  Indian 
village,  but  only  a  few  old  men,  squaws  and  papooses  were  there, 
the  main  portion  of  the  Indians  being  out  on  a  hunting  expedition. 

The  following  is  self-explantory  : 

To  MAJOR  ARMES, 

Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry. 


/ 


/SZT~ 


^Z-^L          £t^t^s     ,4~t^/ 


3o6 


August  28,  1869. 

Majors  Graham  and  Cox  connived  together  and  fixed  up 
charges  against  me.  Major  Page  is  temporarily  in  command,  and 
placed  me  in  arrest  (arrest  No.  17),  but  soon  after  released  me. 
I  sent  for  Lieutenants  Smithers,  Myers,  Allman  and  Banzhof, 
who  denied  having  anything  to  do  with  getting  up  the  charges. 

August  29,  1869. 

I  had  a  close  inspection  of  my  command  this  A.  M.,  and  finding 
several  of  my  men  in  a  careless  condition,  ordered  them  severely 
punished. 

Camp  Supply,  I.  T.,  September  2,  1869. 

With  Lieutenant  Myers'  assistance,  I  completed  my  muster- 
rolls  today;  also  set  of  charges  against  Maj.  G.  W.  Graham. 


307 

Camp  Supply,  I.  T.,  August  31,  1869. 
Bvt.  Col.  W.  G.  Mitchell, 

Acting  Asst.  Adjutant-General,  Dept.  of  the  Missouri, 
Through  Post  Headquarters, 

Fort  Leavenworth,  Kans. : 

Colonel — I  have  the  honor  to  transmit  herewith  charges  and 
specifications  preferred  against  Bvt.  Maj.  G.  W.  Graham,  Cap- 
tain Tenth  Cavalry,  and  would  respectfully  request  that  he  be 
brought  to  trial  as  soon  as  the  General  Commanding  thinks  it  con- 
venient. This  man's  reputation  is  so  notoriously  disreputable  that 
no  respectable  lady  can  treat  him  with  civility  and  courtesy  due  his 
uniform  without  incurring  a  taint  upon  her  fair  name,  or,  at  least, 
to  place  her  reputation  in  jeopardy.  That  the  service  should  be 
purged  of  such  characters  is  patent  to  all,  as  the  respect  which 
the  uniform  once  commanded  is  rapidly  diminishing,  while  the 
example  which  is  shown  by  officers  of  this  man's  standing  and 
reputation  in  associating  with  improper  characters  is  highly  dam- 
aging to  the  esprit  dc  corps  of  the  Army.  I  have  been  told  that  his 
case  has  been  brought  up  at  Department  Headquarters,  but 
hushed  up  on  the  interference  of  Gen.  B.  H.  Grierson,  Colonel 
Tenth  Cavalry. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Capt.  Tenth  Cav., 

Bvt.  Major,  U.  S.  A. 

(Endorsed.) 

Headquarters  Camp  Supply,  I.  T.,  September  6,  1869. 
The  charges  preferred  against  Bii.  Maj.  G.  W.  Graham,  Cap- 
tain Tenth  Cavalry,  are  respectfully  returned  disapproved. 

They  show  malice,  and  are  not  preferred  in  the  sense  of  duty,  or 

for  the  good  of  the  service. 

*          *.••'•'*•*:-***•'*•:*'".•* 

You  also  bring  charges  against  Major  Graham  for  offenses  al- 
leged to  have  been  committed  nearly  a  year  ago. 

Charges  should  have  been  put  against  him  at  or  near  the  time 
of  the  alleged  offenses. 

Your  letter  of  transmittal  breathes  of  prejudice  from  commence- 
ment to  the  end.  You  have  constituted  yourself  judge  and  jury, 
and  condemned  Major  Graham  unheard.  You  have  spoken  of 
Department  Headquarters  and  General  Grierson  in  a  disrespectful 
manner.  You  have  cast  a  slur  on  the  bravery  and  honor  of  Major 
Graham,  and  constituted  yourself,  without  being  asked,  the  judge 
of  the  merit  and  efficiency  of  officers. 


The  Commanding  Officer  cannot  but  think  that  this  letter  has 
been  written  in  an  unguarded  moment.     If  Major  Armes  wishes 
iLese  charges  to  go  forward  he  will  so  endorse  on  this  letter, 
'i  liese  papers  to  be  returned  to  this  office. 

Your  attention  is  called  to  Par.  451,  Revised  Army  Regulations, 
edition  1863. 

By  order  of 

BREVET  MAJOR  PAGE. 
W.  N.  WILLIAMS, 

Second  Lieut.  Third  Inf.  V., 

Post  Adjutant. 
G.  54,  A.  C.  D.  M.  C.  G. 

E.  B.,  pp.  166-285. 

Camp  Supply,  I.  T.,  September  8,  1869. 

Respectfully  returned.  As  paragraphs  ist  and  2d  to  your  en- 
dorsement papers  are  not  pertinent  to  the  subject,  I  do  not  deem 
it  necessary  to  reply  to  them. 

To  the  third  paragraph  I  have  to  say  that  I  but  recently  came  to 
a  knowledge  of  the  alleged  offenses.  The  failure  of  my  informants 
to  prefer  the  charges  cannot  properly  be  visited  upon  my  head. 
In  regard  to  Par.  451,  Revised  Army  Regulations  of  1863,  I  can- 
not see  in  what  particulars  I  have  failed  to  comply  with  it.  One 
reason  for  heading  my  letter  of  transmittal  to  the  A.  A.  A.  Gen- 
eral of  the  Department  was  that  I  had  good  cause  to  believe  that 
the  charge  would  not  be  acted  upon  by  the  Brevet  Major  com- 
manding the  post. 

That  my  letter  of  transmittal  breathes  a  desire  to  rid  the  service 
of  one  unfit  to  wear  the  uniform,  should  the  present  charges  be 
substantiated,  I  admit.  I  most  certainly  believe  them  to  be  true, 
or  I  should  not  have  preferred  them.  Nor  could  I  prefer  frivolous 
charges  consistent  with  a  sense  of  duty.  My  letter  is  couched  in 
strong  terms,  but  within  the  bounds  of  truth,  as  I  believe.  Con- 
sequently I  could  not  wish  to  change  it  in  any  particular,  but  to 
reiterate  what  is  therein  stated.  No  disrespect  is  intended  De- 
partment Headquarters  by  my  allustion,  nor  can  I  see  how  a  dis- 
passionate reader  can  observe  in  its  wording  or  sense  the  least 
approach  to  disrespect  that  General  Grierson  was  actuated  by  a 
desire  to  benefit  the  service.  I  do  not  question,  but  I  do  doubt  that 
he  was  cognizant  of  all  the  facts  in  the  case.  I  have  preferred  the 
charges  against  Brevet  Major  Graham  because  I  alone,  of  the 
officers  serving  with  the  Department  at  present,  can  do  so  disin- 
terestedly, as  the  result  of  his  trial  can  in  no  way  affect  my  position 
in  the  order  of  my  grade  or  regiment. 

If  malice  is  shown  in  the  affair  it  is  by  the  Post  Commander 
towards  myself  in  placing  me  in  close  arrest  within  two  hours 
after  charges,  utterly  frivolous  and  groundless,  were  sent  in. 


309 

My  experience  in  the  service  has  given  me  an  idea  that  when 
communications  are  sent  through  a  subordinate  officer  to  his 
superior  that  they  cannot  be  returned  to  the  writer  "disapproved," 
but  only  for  correction,  if  it  need  be.  My  desire  is  that  the  charges 
go  forward  without  delay.  Because  an  officer  is  a  good  gambler,  a 
judge  of  intoxicating  drinks,  or  a  bully,  it  is  therefore  no  reason 
why  he  should  be  shielded  from  the  punishment  his  disgraceful 
acts  so  amply  merit. 

G.  A.  ARMES, 
Capt.  Tenth  Cav.,  Bvt.  Maj.,  U.  S.  A. 

Headquarters  Camp  Supply,  I.  T.,  September  n,  1869. 
Respectfully  forwarded,  disapproved. 

The  attention  of  the  Department  Commander  respectfully  called 
to  the  letter  transmitted  of  Major  Armes  and  endorsements  there- 
on. Par.  451,  Revised  Army  Regulations,  edition  1863,  has  been 
complied  with  since  this  document  has  been  returned  by  Major 
Armes. 

'Through  Post  Headquarters"  has  been  added  in  red  ink. 
Major  Graham  has  not  been  placed  in  arrest.    I  shall  await  the 
action  of  Department  Headquarters. 

(Signed)        JOHN  H.  PAGE, 
Capt.  Third  Inf.,  Bvt.  Maj.,  U.  S.  A., 

Commanding. 

Headquarters  Department  of  Missouri, 

Fort  Leavenworth,  Kans.,  September  20,  1869. 
Respectfully  referred  to  Bvt.  Col.  A.  P.  Nelson,  U.  S.  A.,  com- 
manding Camp  Supply,  I.  T.,  in  connection  with  other  papers  re- 
ferred to  him  on  the  i6th  inst 

By  command  of 

MAJOR-GENERAL  SCHOFIELD. 
(Signed)        W.  G.  MITCHELL^ 

Bvt.  Col.,  U.  S.  A., 

A.  A.  A.  Gen. 

September  10,  1869. 

Yesterday  I  sent  a  detail  of  men  to  cut  cottonwood  timber,  and 
commenced  the  building  by  putting  logs  fourteen  feet  long  per- 
pendicularly, which  will  be  stockade  quarters  when  completed. 
Having  no  lumber  and  few  nails,  I  used  grapevines  and  wooden 
pegs  to  secure  them  in  their  places,  and  have  a  lot  of  prairie  grass 
for  the  roof,  which  I  will  cover  with  dirt.  A  detail  of  eight  men 
cut  220  logs  today,  at  which  rate  I  will  soon  have  my  quarters 
completed. 


3io 

September  12,  1869. 

Col.  William  G.  Moore,  Paymaster,  U.  S.  A.,  an  old  friend  of 
mine  from  Washington,  D.  C.,  formerly  President  Johnson's 
private  secretary,  arrived  here  yesterday  with  his  clerk,  Mr.  But- 
ler, to  pay  off  the  command.  It  did  me  good  to  meet  one  of  my 
old  Washington  friends,  especially  one  like  Colonel  Moore,  who 
is  one  of  the  most  popular  and  entertaining  officers  in  the  pay 
department. 

September  14,  1869. 

Yesterday  morning  Colonel  Moore  paid  off  my  company  at  9 
o'clock,  and  in  the  afternoon  he.  Major  Page  and  myself  rode  up 
to  the  Indian  village,  where  1  introduced  the  Colonel  to  several 
pretty  Arapahoe  squaws  and  some  of  the  leading  Indian  chiefs. 
In  turn  they  entertained  us,  inviting  us  to  smoke  the  pipe  of 
peace,  all  sitting  around  the  fire  in  a  circle,  passing  the  pipe  from 
one  to  another,  Little  Raven  keeping  it  filled  with  his  kilikinick 
tobacco.  While  we  were  enjoying  the  powwow  the  old  squaws 
were  busily  engaged  getting  up  a  splendid  dinner  of  roast  meat 
and  one  of  the  nicest  and  fattest  dogs  in  the  village.  The  Colonel 
as  well  as  myself  went  through  the  form  of  enjoying  the  dinner, 
but  both  of  us  chose  the  buffalo  meat  in  preference  to  the  dog,  and 
in  such  a  way  that  the  Indians  took  no  offense,  leaving  them  good 
friends,  with  a  cordial  invitation  for  them  to  call  upon  us  at  our 
camp. 

John  Smith,  Romeo  and  Big  Mouth  were  on  hand  when  the 
Colonel  left,  and  he  seemed  greatly  interested  in  Big  Mouth. 

September  16,  1869. 

Having  a  first-class  minstrel  troupe  in  my  company  and  wish- 
ing to  give  an  entertainment  to  a  few  Indian  chiefs  and  their 
families,  I  sent  a  sergeant  to  the  village  yesterday  inviting  quite  a 
number  to  attend  the  show  last  evening.  It  was  more  interesting 
to  watch  the  Indians  enjoy  the  performance  than  the  real  play. 

Big  Mouth  became  perfectly  wild  with  excitement,  and  his  face 
beamed  with  delight  this  morning.  One  of  the  Indians  who  had 
a  very  large  mule  took  a  fancy  to  one  of  my  little  ambulance  mules 
and  made  an  even  exchange. 

This  afternoon  Big  Mouth  challenged  me  to  a  race  with  one 
of  his  fastest  ponies,  betting  an  elegant  buffalo  robe  against  a  pair 
of  red  blankets.  The  race  took  place  at  5  o'clock,  hundreds  of 


Indians  coming  from  their  village  to  witness  it.  The  novelty  of 
the  race  created  great  excitement.  I  rode  my  own  horse,  Frank, 
and  the  Indian  chief  his.  1  beat  three  lengths  and  won  the  buffalo 
robe. 

Camp  Supply,  I.  T.,  September  18,  1869. 

Yesterday  was  a  grand  ration  day  for  the  Arapahoe  Indians, 
who  came  in  full  force  to  get  their  flour,  sugar,  coffee  and  beef. 
From  twenty-five  to  fifty  Texas  beeves  are  turned  out  of  the  corral 
into  the  open  prairie,  where  two  or  three  hundred  warriors, 
mounted  on  their  fastest  ponies,  armed  with  knives,  lances,  Win- 
chesters, bows,  arrows,  quivers  and  pistols,  charged  after  them,  all 
wild  with  excitement,  and  did  not  stop  until  the  last  beef  was 
killed.  Then  the  squaws  skinned  and  cut  them  up,  packing  every 
portion  to  their  village  on  their  shoulders,  even  the  entrails,  which 
they  utilize  by  making  soup.  During  the  excitement  of  the  chase 
hundreds  of  shots  were  fired  at  a  single  beef  before  it  was  killed. 


FEEDING  INDIANS. 


I  exchanged  a  blanket,  some  sugar  and  some  coffee  with  , a 
squaw  for  a  nice  pair  of  Indian  saddle-bags.  One  of  the  Arapahoe 
Indians  slipped  into  my  tent  and  stole  ten  dollars.  I  finished  my 
stockade  stables. 

September  20,  1869. 

Yesterday  afternoon  Colonel  Carpenter  commanded  the  parade, 
after  which  Mrs.  Lieutenant  Myers,  Lieutenants  Davis  and 
Lindsay  and  I  went  after  wild  plums,  which  are  in  great  abund- 
ance. Lieutenant  Myers  and  wife  left  today  for  Fort  Sill,  and  will 
be  greatly  missed. 


3I2 

September  22,  ii 

Yesterday  I  had  four  teams  and  one  hundred  men  hauling  cot- 
tonwood  logs.  The  Cheyenne  Indians  came  in  to  draw  rations  this 
afternoon,  and  had  a  great  time  killing  their  beeves,  some  of  which 
ran  for  several  miles. 

September  26,  1869. 

I  came  off  duty  as  Officer  of  the  Day  yesterday  and  came  very 
near  having  some  trouble  with  the  Arapahoes  while  they  were 
drawing  rations.  Several  were  badly  cut  and  slashed  with  knives. 

After  inspection  Dr.  Fitch  and  I  rode  to  the  Arapahoe  camp 
and  attended  the  funeral  of  Big  Mouth's  daughter,  who  hanged 
herself  last  night  on  account  of  some  trouble  with  a  young  warrior 
whom  she  expected  to  marry.  She  was  a  very  handsome  and  pop- 
ular squaw  in  the  village. 

September  30,  1869. 

Yesterday  I  was  placed  on  a  board  of  survey  to  examine  the 
shortage  of  a  train  of  C.  S.  stores  which  came  from  Fort  Hays. 
Major  Kidd  commanded  at  general  inspection  today,  after  which 
Colonel  Carpenter,  Major  Page  and  myself  fixed  the  prices  on 
goods  of  Post  Trader  Tracy. 

October  4,  1869. 

Have  been  working  on  my  quarters  during  the  past  few  weeks, 
and  now  have  them  most  completed. 

Mr.  Darlington,  an  old  banker,  is  now  having  full  charge  of 
clothing  and  rations,  but  is  entirely  too  easy  with  the  Indians,  and 
they  take  advantage  of  his  kindness. 

Lieut. -Col.  A.  D.  Nelson  and  Lieutenant  Maxon  arrived  yes- 
terday. This  afternoon  Drs.  Fitch,  Lagraw  and  I  rode  to  the 
Arapahoe  camp  to  witness  a  grand  medicine-man  carrying  out  his 
tricks.  He  would  dress  himself  up  in  full  war  costume,  with  his 
shield,  which  he  would  hold  in  his  right  hand,  defending  himself 
from  the  bullets  of  six  young  warriors  who  were  galloping  around 
the  village.  He  soon  went  through  the  form  of  being  badly 
wounded  and  fell  from  his  horse. 

The  medicine-man  was  immediately  surrounded  by  hundreds 
of  squaws  and  papooses,  screeching,  screaming  and  moaning,  but 
suddenly  he  jumped  up,  sprang  on  his  horse  and  began  firing  his 
pistols  and  racing  around  the  village  like  a  madman.  Then  there 
was  a  rousing  cheer  and  great  excitement  among  all  the  papooses, 


who  were  running  and  cheering  wildly  with  the  idea  that  their 
medicine-man  was  bullet-proof  and  could  not  be  killed  by  being- 
shot  at,  so  he  was  at  once  recognized  by  all  as  the  "Sword  of  God, 
Ruler  and  Adviser."  It  did  not  take  me  long  to  find  out  that  the 
pistols  and  Winchesters  which  the  young  bucks  used  had  been 
loaded  with  blank  cartridges,  but  the  Indians  fully  believed  that 
they  were  loaded  with  balls. 

October  6,  1869. 

I  completed  my  quarters  yesterday,  and  in  spite  of  the  hard 
work  my  command  has  been  doing  everything  is  in  splendid  con- 
dition. 

Lieutenant  Maxon,  a  great  favorite  with  Colonel  Nelson,  told 
me  today  that  he  expects  to  be  placed  in  command  of  my  com- 
pany soon,  as  Major  Graham  has  induced  Colonel  Nelson,  the 
Post  Commander,  to  believe  the  charges  I  preferred  against 
Graham  were  made  up,  he  having  won  the  old  imbecile  over  by 
presenting  him  brandy  and  wine,  making  him  a  present  of  a  Gov- 
ernment horse  and  a  dog,  winning  him  entirely  in  his  favor  and 
against  me. 

October  8,  1869. 

Lieutenant  Williams,  Third  Infantry,  Acting  Adjutant,  placed 
me  in  arrest  (arrest  No.  18),  giving  me  ten  miles  limit,  by  order  of 
Colonel  Nelson.  I  am  now  transferring  all  papers  over  to  Lieu- 
tenant Maxon.  It  is  impossible  to  find  any  grounds  for  the  arbi- 
trary act,  except  to  please  and  favor  Majors  Graham  and  Cox. 

October  18,  1869. 

During  the  past  few  days  I  have  been  engaged  in  transferring 
property  and  papers  and  getting  settled  in  our  new  quarters, 
which  are  very  comfortable.  I  have  entertained  quite  a  number 
of  Indians,  and  am  on  very  friendly  terms  with  them.  Little 
Raven  dined  with  me  today  after  seeing  that  the  tribe  was  all 
supplied  with  clothing  and  rations,  which  were  issued  to  them 
today. 

Little  Raven's  Camp,  I.  T.,  October  20,  1869. 

Ten  miles  south  of  Camp  Supply.     I  rode  to  Powder  Face's 

camp  this  forenoon,  who  told  me  that  Little  Raven  had  moved, 

and  I  searched  here  until  about  sundown,  when  Little  Raven,  his 

wives  and  daughters,  seemed  very  much  pleased  to  see  me.    They 


had  a  fire  built  in  a  large  tepee  and  a  nice  bed  fixed  up  with  buf- 
falo robes.  I  have  just  been  entertained  with  a  good  dinner  of 
buffalo  meat,  after  which  Little  Raven,  several  of  his  war  chiefs 
and  I  had  a  good  smoke  of  the  kilikinick. 


Camp  Supply,  I.  T.,  October  22,  il 
Little  Raven  and  one  of  his  daughters  were  my  guests  yesterday 
evening,  and  after  a  good  breakfast  this  morning  they  left  for 
their  camp. 

October  24,  1869. 

Colonel  Carpenter  and  Lieutenant  Davis  spent  most  of  last 

evening  with  me,  assisting 
me  to  prepare  charges 
against  Captain  Graham.  I 
loaned  Powder  Face  my 
horse  to  ride  to  his  village. 

October  26,  1869. 

Colonel  Carpenter,  Cap- 
tain Graham  and  Lieutenant 
Ranzoff  all  went  on  a  hunt 
yesterday  after  wild  turkeys 
and  brought  home  nearly  a 
wagon-load.  Just  after  I  had 
_  completed  my  stable  for  a 
milk  cow  Colonel  Nelson 
came  up  and  ordered  it  torn 
down.  A  meaner  and  more 
disagreeable  man  could  not 
be  found  in  the  Army. 

Ne  Watch,  a  very  bright 
Indian  chief,  came  in  ahead 
of  his  tribe  this  evening.  He 
presented  Major  Kidd  with 
ten  buffalo  robes.  I  have 
arranged  with  him  to  get  me 
some  Indian  pictures.  His 
tribe  will  be  here  to- 
POWDER  FACE.  morrow. 


315 


Headquarters  of  the  Army, 

Adjt.-General's  Office,  Washington,  November  4,  1869. 
Bvt.  Maj.  George  A.  Armes, 

Capt.  Tenth  Cavalry, 
Through  Headquarters  Military  Division  of  the  Missouri, 

Chicago,  111. : 

Sir — Your  application  of  October  9,  1869,  for  a  Court  of  In- 
quiry to  examine  into  the  nature  of  the  accusation  made  against 
you  has  not  been  favorably  considered  by  the  General  of  the  Army. 
Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

E.  D.  TOWNSEND, 

Adjt.-Gen. 


Headquarters  Department  of  the  Missouri, 

St.  Louis,  Mo.,  November  12,  1869. 
Special  Orders  No.  213 — Extract. 

*  *  *  ^*  X  *  *  *  *  * 

A.  Upon  receipt  of  this  order  the  following-named  officers 
will  proceed  from  Capt  Supply,  I.  T.,  to  Fort  Leavenworth,  Kans., 
reporting  in  person  upon  their  arrival  there  to  the  commanding 
officer  of  the  post  as  under  arrest  (arrest  No.  18),  awaiting  trial 
before  a  General  Court-Martial.  They  will  await  trial  at  Leaven- 
worth  City,  Kans. : 

Bvt.  Maj.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  Capt.  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry. 

Capt.  Geo.  W.  Graham,  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry. 

Bvt.  Maj.  Chas.  G.  Cox,  Capt.  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry. 

********** 

By  command  of 

MAJOR-GENERAL  SCHOFIELD. 
W.  G.  MITCHELL, 

Bvt.  Col.,  U.  S.  A., 
Acting  Asst.  Adjt.-Gen. 
Official: 

W.  G.  MITCHELL, 

Acting  Asst.  Adjt.-Gen. 
BVT.  MAJ.  GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Capt.  Tenth  Cavalry, 

Camp  Supply,  I.  T. 

November  24,   1869. 

I  made  arrangements  with  Toko,  Yellow  Horse  and  Ne  Watch 
to  kill  for  me  some  mountain  lions  and  bring  me  the  skins.  Today 
they  brought  in  thirteen  skins  of  different  animals,  which  I  in- 
tend to  have  made  into  a  robe.  I  paid  them  with  tobacco,  sugar, 
coffee  and  red  blankets. 

November  28,  1869. 

Major  Graham  was  placed  in  arrest.  There  are  a  great  many 
Indians  quartered  around  us,  some  of  which  are  not  on  very 
friendly  terms. 

Bluff  Creek,  I.  T.,  December  i,  1869. 

After  bidding  everyone  good-bye  at  Camp  Supply,  I  left  with 
Colonel  Moore  and  party  at  10  A.  M.  Stopped  by  the  Cheyenne 
camp  and  found  Big  Mouth  very  sick,  but  bade  him  and  my 
other  Indian  friends  good-bye.  Lieutenant  Hale  and  Mr.  Butler 
helped  to  make  up  the  fires  last  night  so  as  to  cook  our  suppers. 
Colonel  Moore,  Major  Cox  and  Lieutenant  Hale  divided  our 


3*7 

grub  with  the  rest  of  the  party,  so  we  all  had  enough.  We  en- 
joyed our  supper  and  talked  over  old  times  until  10  o'clock. 
Broke  camp  at  8  this  morning,  arriving  here  at  4  this  afternoon, 
and  are  comfortably  fixed.  Captain  Graham's  horse,  Stocking- 
legs,  was  kicked  so  badly  that  he  had  to  be  shot. 

Leavenworth  City,  Kan.,  December  7,  1869. 
Left  Ellsworth  at  3  o'clock  this  morning.  Stopped  over  at 
Lawrence  City  for  dinner,  meeting  Mr.  Noble.  I  presented  him 
a  buffalo-calf  robe  and  a  quiver  full  of  arrows,  which  he  seemed 
to  appreciate  very  highly.  Captain  Philey,  one  of  my  old  scouts, 
joined  us  on  the  train.  He  seemed  delighted  to  meet  me  again. 

December  9,  1869. 

Met  Colonel  Schofield,  the  General's  brother,  at  the  post.  It  is 
apparent  he  is  in  collusion  with  Major  Graham  and  Major  Cox, 
and  that  an  underhanded  movement  is  on  foot  to  down  me  if 
possible  for  them. 

Thursday,  December  30,  1869. 

Did  not  arrive  home  until  5  this  A.  M.,  having  attended  one 
of  the  most  fashionable  dances  that  has  been  given  for  a  long 
time.  T  escorted  Miss  Ida  Hill  and  Miss  Hunt.  We  met  there 
Miss  Kilpatrick  and  a  large  number  of  military  men  and  officers 
from  the  post. 


CHAPTER  VIII. 

Leavenworth,  Kan.,  January  2,  1870. 

I  have  been  most  of  the  day  preferring  additional  charges 
against  Col.  A.  D.  Nelson,  which  are  of  a  very  serious  character, 
but  do  not  believe  General  Schofield  will  ever  bring  him  to  trial. 
He  also  appears  to  sustain  him  with  the  other  conspirators  in 
trying  to  force  me  before  a  court  specially  picked  out  to  go 
through  the  form  of  a  trial  as  an  excuse  to  dismiss  me  from  the 
service,  but  it  is  a  little  satisfaction  to  get  the  charges  and  evi- 
dence I  have  on  record  in  order  that  an  investigation  in  the  course 
of  time  will  show  up  the  villainy  of  the  conspirators,  consisting 
of  Gen.  A.  D.  Nelson,  Gen.  John  M.  Schofield,  Capt.  C.  G.  Cox, 
Capt.  G.  W.  Graham  and  Maj.  Lewis  Merrill. 

January  3,  1870. 

Although  I  have  been  here  since  December  7,  1869,  and  a 
general  court-martial  in  session  at  Fort  Leavenworth,  Kan.,  I 
have  not  been  furnished  with  a  copy  of  the  charges  upon  which 
I  am  supposed  to  be  tried,  and  I  know  that  I  have  not  committed 
any  offence  that  will  warrant  a  reprimand,  much  less  charges. 
But  the  officers  I  \vas  obliged  to  prefer  charges  against  have  com- 
bined together  to  force  me  out  in  order  to  save  themselves,  and 
I  am  sure  they  are  concocting  charges  to  spring  on  me  without 
giving  me  an  opportunity  of  offering  a  defense,  but  it  seems  im- 
possible to  get  an  idea  of  their  purport. 

Leavenworth,  Kan.,  January  5,  1870. 

Wrote  fifteen  or  twenty  letters ;  drove  out  this  afternoon  and 
engaged  Judge  Ketner  and  Col.  George  English,  two  of  the  best 
lawyers  in  this  city,  to  defend  me.  They  have  their  hands  full, 
and  charge  me  accordingly.  If  I  can  only  show  up  the  villain 
who  fixed  up  such  malicious,  disgraceful  and  false  charges ;  and 
General  Schofield's  past  record,  I  am  told,  proves  that  he  is  up 
to  all  sorts  of  cunning  devices. 


319 


Fort  Leavenworth,  Kan.,  January  6,  1870. 
I  find  that  my  expenses  are  so  enormous  here  that  I  will  have 
to  sell  my  mules  and  wagons,  which  have  been  bringing  me  in  a 
good  income.  I  cleared  over  $10,000  during  the  past  year  and 
did  not  interfere  with  any  of  my  duties.  I  bought  a  large  number 
of  mules,  cattle  and  horses  and  sold  them  at  a  good  profit,  except 
a  few  good  mule  teams  and  wagons,  which  I  hired  out  to  con- 
tractors, each  team  paying  for  its  first  cost  monthly. 

January  7,  1870. 

When  I  was  ordered  here  from  Camp  Supply  I  had  to  march 
several  hundred  miles  before  reaching  a  railroad  station,  and 
brought  my  trotting  horse,  ambulance  and  one  servant  to  Fort 
Hays.  There  I  left  them  and  came  here  by  rail,  not  being  able 
to  get  authority  from  General  Sturgis  to  bring  them  here. 

Leavenworth  City,  Kan.,  January  25,  1870. 
A  letter  was  handed  me  today  which  almost  dumfounded  me, 
from  the  fact  that  no  charges  had  been  furnished. 

Leavenworth  City,  Kan.,  January  29,  1870. 
Bvt.  Col.  Lewis  Merrill, 

Major  Seventh  Cav.,  U.  S.  A., 

Judge- Advocate, 

Fort  Leavenworth,  Kan.: 

Colonel — I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  this  day 
of  your  communication  of  yesterday's  date,  and  to  thank  you  for 
the  assurance  that  my  own  interests  induced  your  letter  of  the 
26th  inst.  I  regret  that  the  statements  made  in  the  first-named 
communication  demand  of  me  a  reply,  more  especially  that  which  I 
here  quote  in  full  as  follows : 

"I  distinctly  informed  you,  when  you  came  to  see  me,  that  the 
court  now  in  session  here  was  ordered  to  try  you,  and  that  you 
would  in  due  time  be  furnished  with  a  copy  of  the  charges  against 
you.  This  notification  having  been  given  you  by  the  Judge-Ad- 
vocate of  the  court,  you  were  not  at  liberty  to  consider  it  un- 
official." 

Tn  reference  to  this  statement,  it  is  necessary  that  I  should  say 
that  since  my  arrival  in  the  City  of  Leavenworth,  on  or  about  the 
7th  of  December  last,  I  have  never  been  to  see  you;  that  the  only 
conversation  between  us  since  that  time  occurred  on  or  about  the 
loth  ult.  in  the  office  of  the  Depot  Quartermaster  at  Fort  Leaven- 
worth, where  I  casually  met  you  when  I  called  to  ask  payment  of 


320 

the  amount  due  me  for  mileage,  and  that  at  that  time  no  court  had 
been  ordered,  and  that,  therefore,  you  could  not  have  given  me 
any  official  notice  with  respect  to  my  trial.  The  order  appointing 
the  General  Court-Martial  now  in  session  at  Fort  Leavenworth, 
and  designating  you  as  Judge-Advocate,  bears  date  only  the  22d 
of  December,  and  in  the  interview  above  referred  to  I  distinctly 
remember  that  you  informed  me  that  such  a  court  would  be  con- 
vened, and  that  it  had  been  intimated  to  you  that  you  would  be 
appointed  its  Judge-Advocate.  Even,  therefore,  had  you  then 
notified  me  that  the  court  would  try  me,  I  could  not  properly  have 
considered  the  statement  as  official  in  character,  or  sufficient  to 
justify  me  in  furnishing  you  with  a  list  of  the  witnesses  which  I 
would  require  in  my  defense.  My  disposition  promptly  to  comply 
with  any  such  demand  is  evidenced  by  the  fact  that  on  the  29th 
inst.  (the  day  after  I  had  received  from  you  a  copy  of  the  specifica- 
tions and  charges)  I  transmitted  you  a  list  of  the  persons  whom  I 
desired  summoned,  in  accordance  with  your  request  of  the  25th  of 
the  present  month,  received  the  succeeding  day. 

You  further  observe  in  your  communication  of  the  28th  that 
"there  cannot  have  been  any  doubt  in  your  mind  as  to  the  facts 
that  you  were  ordered  here  for  trial,  and  before  the  court  now  in 
session."  Permit  me  to  say,  in  reply,  that  Special  Order  No.  213, 
dated  at  Department  Headquarters,  the  I2th  of  November  last, 
and  received  by  me  the  2gth  of  that  month,  simply  directed  me  to 
"proceed  to  Fort  Leavenworth,  to  report  in  person,  upon  my  ar- 
rival there,  to  the  commanding  officer  of  the  post  as  under  arrest, 
awaiting  trial  before  a  General  Court-Martial,  and  to  await  trial  at 
Leavenworth  City,  Kan."  While  from  the  terms  of  the  above- 
quoted  order  I  might  have  assumed  that  I  would  be  tried  by  the 
court  subsequently  appointed,  and  now  in  session  at  Fort  Leaven- 
worth, it  is  respectfully  suggested  that  it  would  have  been  entirely 
premature  in  me,  before  an  official  notification  of  the  fact,  and 
before  even  being  furnished  by  the  Judge-Advocate  with  a  copy 
of  the  specifications  and  charges  against  me,  to  send  you  a  list  of 
the  witnesses  needed  for  my  vindication,  with  a  request  that  you 
would  summon  them  to  appear  before  a  court  not  then  appointed. 
Indeed,  it  was  only  on  the  27th  inst.  that  I  received  a  complete 
copy  of  the  specifications  and  charges  upon  which  I  am  about  to 
be  brought  to  trial.  I  thank  you  for  the  copy  of  the  order  appoint- 
ing the  court  and  Judge-Advocate  which  you  enclose  for  my  use 
in  your  communication  of  the  28th.  It  is  the  first  and  only  copy 
which  I  have  yet  seen  of  that  order,  protesting  that  if  it  be  true,  as 
you  declare,  that  "my  course  in  the  matter  so  far  is  one  which  re- 
sults in  disadvantage  to  myself  only,"  no  fault  can  justly  be  im- 
puted to  myself  under  the  circumstances  so  hastily  and,  I  believe, 
trulv  narrated. 


221 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  Colonel,  very  respectfully, 
Your  obedient  servant, 
GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Capt.  Tenth  Cavalry, 

Bvt.  Maj.  U.  S.  A. 

Fort  Leavenworth,  February  4,  1870. 

Agreeably  to  the  order  of  the  court,  passed  yesterday,  when  I 
took  the  oath  as  prescribed,  T  appear  today  to  declare  that,  to  the 
best  of  my  knowledge  and  belief,  the  testimony  of  each  of  the  per- 
sons named  in  the  communication  addressed  by  me  to  the  Judge- 
Advocate  on  the  27th  ult.  is  material  and  necessary  to  the  ends  of 
justice  in  my  case.  Although  under  charges,  I  am  placed  in  the 
anomalous  position  of  being  compelled  to  appear  as  a  witness 
under  oath  in  my  own  case,  the  court  requiring  that  an  affidavit 
should  be  substituted  for  my  written  declaration  that  I  cannot, 
without  disclosing  my  line  of  defense,  fulfill  the  requirements  of 
the  Judge-Advocate  respecting  the  persons  whom  I  have  requested 
him  to  summon  for  the  defense.  The  honorable  court  cannot  fail 
to  appreciate  the  reasons  which  induced  me  to  ask  a  day's  delay 
before  complying  with  its  extraordinary  mandate,  for,  while  I  be- 
lieved then,  as  now.  that  the  testimony  of  each  of  the  persons 
named  in  my  communication  of  the  27th  ult.  was  necessary  for  my 
vindication,  yet  I  was  aware  that  in  certain  contingencies  some  of 
them  might  not  be  needed  as  witnesses  before  this  tribunal.  A 
desire,  however,  to  be  fully  prepared  upon  each  and  every  charge, 
and  not  to  endanger  my  case  by  omissions  founded  upon  contin- 
gencies which  may  not  occur,  naturally  induced  me  to  adhere  to 
the  application  which  is  now  pending  before  the  court.  If,  in  my 
anxiety  to  make  a  successful  defense,  it  shall  be  found  that  I  have 
asked  too  much,  none  will  regret  the  fact  more  than  myself,  for  it 
is  my  earnest  desire,  as  an  officer  true  to  the  Government  of  my 
country,  not  necessarily  to  add  to  the  heavy  expense  incident  to 
this  court.  I  now  respectfully  ask  that  the  Judge-Advocate  retire, 
in  order  that,  if  the  court  please,  it  may,  by  interrogating  me,  judge 
for  itself  of  the  necessity  for  each  of  the  witnesses  named  in  my 
communication  of  the  27th  ult.,  having  entire  confidence  in  the 
wisdom  and  justice  of  the  court.  I  desire  that  the  questions  and 
answers  be  made  of  record,  but  trust  that  I  may,  without  impro- 
priety, ask  that  they  may  be  withheld  from  the  knowledge  of  the 
Judge-Advocate. 

Respectfully  submitted, 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES, 
Capt.  Tenth  Cav.,  Bvt.  Maj.,  U.  S.  A. 

A  true  copy: 

A.  C.  VON  LUTTEWITZ, 

Second  Lieut.  Third  U.  S.  Cav. 

21 


322 

Headquarters  Fort  Leavenworth,  Kan.,  February  23,  1870. 
To  Bvt.  Maj.  G.  A.  Armes,  Tenth  Cavalry, 

Leavenworth  City,  Kan.: 

Major — Your  letter  of  this  date  asking  that  Captain  Graham  be 
placed  in  close  arrest  is  received. 

In  reply,  I  would  say  that  while  1  regret  that  so  unfortunate  (to 
use  no  harsher  term)  affair  should  have  occurred  between  two 
officers  of  the  Army  as  is  represented  in  your  letter,  still  I  do  not 
see  how  it  could  be  remedied  by  a  close  arrest  of  Captain  Graham. 
Placing  a  commissioned  officer  in  close  arrest  is  a  step  that  I  am 
very  slow  to  take,  and  one  that  can  only  be  justified  in  cases  of  an 
extremely  rare  character.  If,  however,  you  desire  that  your  letter 
be  forwarded  to  Department  Heaquarters  for  the  action  of  higher 
authority  it  shall  be  forwarded. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

S.  D.  STURGIS, 
Col.  Seventh  Cav.,  Bvt.  Maj. -Gen., 

Commanding. 

The  reader  can  see  that  General  Sturgis  declined  to  put  Cap- 
tain Graham  in  close  arrest,  while  in  his  capacity  as  president  of 
the  court  he  ordered  me  to  be  so  treated,  and  thus  disclosed  his 
prejudice. 

As  soon  as  it  became  known  that  General  Schofield  had  or- 
dered a  court  for  my  trial  my  friends  began  calling  to  inform  me 
of  it,  among  them  Gen.  George  A.  Custer,  with  whom  I  had 
served  a  portion  of  the  time  during  the  war  of  the  rebellion,  who 
looked  upon  such  trumped-up  charges  as  an  outrage,  and  imme- 
diately took  my  part. 

They  informed  me  of  the  prejudice  of  the  members  of  the  court, 
going  so  far  as  to  give  in  detail  the  words  used  in  their  expres- 
sions concerning  me.  I  could  not  expect  justice  before  the  court, 
therefore  I  prepared  myself  with  evidence  to  sustain  me  in  my 
grounds  for  objecting  to  the  members,  and  in  the  case  of  Colonel 
Buell  I  had  a  reliable  witness  present  who  was  proof  to  the  fact 
that  he  had  expressed  himself,  although  he  denied  it  under  oath, 
and  my  witness  being  present  was  a  great  surprise  and  enraged 
the  rest  of  the  court  to  such  an  extent  that  they  could  not  hold 
their  tempers  and  took  advantage  of  their  authority  to  arbitrarily 
sentence  me  to  the  guardhouse;  and  after  being  placed  there  I 
sent  a  note  to  the  Officer  of  the  Guard  stating  that  I  had  left  my 
rooms  and  everything  unlocked,  with  all  my  effects,  and  the  re- 
quest was  denied  me  to  even  go  and  secure  my  property.  An 


3^3 

order  from  General  Sturgis  to  the  Officer  of  the  Guard  stated 
that  I  should  be  required  to  remain  in  the  guardhouse  until  I 
purge  myself  of  contempt  of  court,  and  that  I  should  not  be 
allowed  to  have  intercourse  with  anyone.  After  being  kept  in 
the  guardhouse  all  day  without  anything  to  eat  I  made  written 
request  to  General  Sturgis  that  some  provision  be  mad^  to  keep 
me  from  starvation. 

Headquarters  Department  of  the  Missouri, 

St.  Louis,  Mo.,  December  22,  1869. 
Special  Orders  No.  239 — Extract. 

I — A  General  Court-Martial  is  hereby  appointed  to  meet  at  Fort 
Leavenworth,  Kan.,  on  Monday,  the  3d  day  of  January,  1870,  at 
10  o'clock  A.  M.,  or  as  soon  thereafter  as  practicable,  for  the  trial 
of  such  persons  as  may  be  properly  brought  before  it. 

Detail  for  the  Court* 

Bvt.  Maj.-Gen.  Saml.  I.  Sturgis,  Col.  Seventh  U.  S.  Cav. 

Bvt.  Lieut. -Col.  Franklin  E.  Hunt,  Maj.  and  Paymaster,  U. 
S.  A. 

Bvt.  Maj.  David  H.  Brotherton,  Capt.  Fifth  U.  S.  Inf. 

Bvt.  Lieut.-Col.  John  S.  Poland,  Capt.  Sixth  U.  S.  Inf. 

Capt.  Simon  Snyder,  Fifth  LT.  S.  Inf. 

Bvt.  Lieut.-Col.  David  H.  Buel,  Capt.  Ordnance  Dept. 

Bvt.  Col.  Albert  Barnitz,  Capt.  Seventh  U.  S.  Cav. 

Capt.  Chambers  McKibben.  Fifteenth  U.  S.  Inf. 

Capt.  Geo.  W.  Yates,  Seventh  U.  S.  Cav. 

Judge-Advocate,  Bvt.  Col.  Lewis  Merrill,  Maj.  Seventh  U.  S. 
Cav. 

Xo  other  officers  than  those  above  mentioned  can  be  assembled 

without  manifest  injury  to  the  service. 

#        #  *        "  *         *         *         *         *         *         * 

Fort  Leavenworth,  Kan.,  March  12,  1870. 

The  court  being  in  session,  pursuant  to  the  foregoing  order  and 
its  various  adjournments,  all  of  its  members  being  present,  Bvt. 
Col.  Lewis  Merrill,  Maj.  Seventh  U.  S.  Cavalry,  Judge- Advocate, 
then  proceeded  to  the  trial  of  Bvt.  Maj.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  Capt. 
Tenth  Cavalry,  who,  being  present  in  court,  and  having  heard  the 
order  concerning  the  court,  was  asked  if  he  objected  to  any 
member. 

The  accused  then  stated  that  he  had  only  yesterday  received 
notice  that  his  case  would  come  up  today,  and  asked  that  delay  be 
given  him  until  Monday. 

The  Judge-Advocate  stated  that  the  accused  had  been  here 
awaiting  trial  since  the  beginning  of  the  court,  and  had  long  since 
had  his  charges,  and  had  appeared  before  the  court,  and  had  all  his 
witnesses  summoned,  and  that  nearly  all  of  them  were  here;  that 


324 

he  had  been  notified  by  the  Judge-Advocate  that  his  case  would 
come  up  at  such  time  as  the  business  of  the  court  would  permit, 
and  that  at  that  time  his  request  that  he  should  have  three  or  four 
days'  notice  was  refused,  and  it  was  explained  to  him  that  the  busi- 
ness of  the  court  was  such  that  no  such  notice  would  be  given  him, 
but  that  he  must  be  ready  at  any  time  that  he  should  be  called 
upon.  This  was  some  weeks  ago. 

Whereupon  the  court  was  cleared,  and  the  request  for  delay 
refused. 

The  accused  then  desired  to  challenge  all  the  members  of  the 
court  and  the  Judge- Advocate. 

The  Judge-Advocate  then  read  the  Seventy-first  Article  of  War, 
and  informed  the  accused  that  the  law  forbade  to  even  receive  such 
a  challenge,  and  that  the  court  had  no  right  to  violate  the  law. 

The  accused  then  asked  that  Lieut.  E.  L.  Randall,  Fifth  In- 
fantry, be  permitted  to  appear  as  his  counsel  in  this  case  for  the 
present. 

Lieutenant  Randall  explained  to  the  court  that  the  accused  had 
retained  civil  counsel  in  this  case,  and  had  not  notified  them  that 
his  case  would  come  up  this  morning,  and  they  were  not  here  in 
consequence;  that  he  was  willing  to  advise  the  accused  until  they 
came,  and  then  would  withdraw. 

The  accused  then  objected  to  Capt.  Geo.  W.  Yates,  Seventh 
Cavalry,  on  the  grounds  that  Captain  Yates  was  prejudiced 
against  the  accused. 

Captain  Yates  asked  to  withdraw,  that  he  was  prejudiced. 

The  court  was  then  cleared,  Captain  Yates  withdrawing,  and 
after  a  deliberation,  decided  to  sustain  the  challenge,  and  Captain 
Yates  accordingly  ceased  to  be  a  member  of  the  court  in  this  case. 

The  accused  objected  to  Bvt.  Col.  Albert  Barnitz,  Captain  Sev- 
enth Cavalry,  on  the  ground  that  Captain  Barnitz  has  a  strong 
prejudice  against  the  accused. 

The  court  was  cleared.  Colonel  Barnitz  retiring,  and  the  chal- 
lenge was  not  sustained. 

The  accused  objected  to  Capt.  Chambers  McKibben.  Fifteenth 
Infantry,  on  the  ground  that  he  had  expressed  himself  to  others 
unfavorably  to  the  accused. 

The  court  was  cleared,  Captain  McKibben  retiring,  and  the 
challenge  was  sustained. 

The  accused  then  objected  to  Capt.  Simon  Snyder,  Fifth  In- 
fantry, on  the  grounds  of  prejudice. 

The  court  was  then  cleared,  Captain  Snyder  retiring,  and  sus- 
tained the  challenge. 

The  accused  then  objected  to  Bvt.  Lieut-Col.  David  H.  Buel, 
Capt.  Ordnance  Department,  on  the  grounds  of  prejudice  and 
that  he  had  expressed  an  opinion  unfavorable. 

Ques.  by  J.-A.  to  Colonel  Buel.  Have  you  any  knowledge  of 
the  matter  now  pending? 

Ans.     None  whatever. 


325 

Ques.  Have  you  ever  formed  or  expressed  any  opinion  what- 
soever in  regard  to  the  matter  against  the  accused? 

Ans.  It  is  impossible  that  1  should  do  so,  for  I  have  not  the 
least  idea  of  what  the  charges  are. 

Ques.  Have  you  any  bias  or  prejudice  against  the  accused 
which  will  in  the  matter  now  pending  prevent  you  from  giving  him 
a  fair  and  impartial  trial  according  to  your  oath  and  according  to 
the  evidence  which  may  be  adduced  on  the  trial? 

Ans.     I  feel  confident  that  I  have  not. 

The  accused  now  stated  that  he  could  bring  before  the  court  the 
person  to  whom  Colonel  Buel  had  expressed  the  opinions  unfav- 
orable to  the  accused  in  the  matter  now  pending,  and  desired  that 
Colonel  Buel  be  put  on  oath,  in  order  that  he  might  examine  him 
about  certain  matters. 

Bvt.  Lieutenant-Colonel  Buel  was  then  duly  sworn  by  the 
Judge-Advocate  and  put  on  his  "voir  dire." 

Ques.  by  Accused.  Have  you  ever  expressed  any  opinion  as  to 
the  guilt  or  innocence  of  the  accused  in  the  matter  now  pending? 

The  accused  then  stated  that  he  had  been  told  by  a  party  that 
Colonel  Buel  had  stated  that  he  would  not  believe  the  accused  on 
oath,  and  would  vote  for  his  dismissal  if  on  a  court,  but  that  he  de- 
clined to  state  who  told  him  so  or  to  bring  the  person  before  the 
court,  and  desired  to  question  Colonel  Buel  as  to  his  having  ex- 
pressed any  such  opinion.  The  court  refused  to  permit  the  ques- 
tion until  the  accused  should  show  grounds  for  believing  that  the 


Ouster  to  My  Rescue. 

opinion  had  been  expressed.  (General  Custer,  who  was  one  of  the 
spectators  in  the  courtroom,  at  once  authorized  me  to  call  him 
before  the  court,  as  he  saw  I  did  not  wish  to  give  his  name.)  The 


326 

accused  then  stated  that  Gen.  G.  A.  Custer  is  the  person  whose  tes- 
timony can  show  that  Colonel  Buel  said  he  would  not  believe  the 
accused  on  oath. 

Ques.  by  J.-A.  to  Colonel  Buel — Have  you  ever  stated  that  you 
would  not  believe  the  accused  on  oath,  and  would  vote  for  his  dis- 
missal if  on  a  court? 

Ans.     1  have. 

Ques.  by  Court.  Notwithstanding  the  opinion  you  have 
formed  of  the  credibility  of  the  accused,  can  you  fairly  and  impar- 
tially try  him  on  the  evidence  and  according  to  your  oath? 

Ans.     1  feel  confident  I  can  do  so. 

The  accused  then  stated  that  he  had  the  same  opinion  of  Colonel 
Buel,  and  had  so  expressed  himself  outside  before  he  came  in. 

I  said  that  was  also  "my  opinion  of  Colonel  Buel,  under  oath, 
and  I  want  that  to  go  on  the  record." 

The  accused  was  checked  by  the  president,  and  the  court  was 
cleared  for  deliberation-,  and,  on  being  reopened,  proceeded  to  his 
trial  for  contempt  of  court. 

The  members  of  the  court  were  then  duly  and  severally  sworn 
according  to  law  by  the  Judge-Advocate,  and  the  Judge-Advocate 
duly  sworn  according  to  law  by  the  president  of  the  court,  all  of 
which  was  in  the  presence  of  the  accused,  who  was  then  arraigned 
on  the  charge  of  contempt,  and  specification  as  follows: 

In  that  Bvt.  Maj.  G.  A.  Armes,  Captain  Tenth  Cavalry,  an  ac- 
cused for  trial  before  a  General  Court-Martial  instituted  by  Spe- 
cial Order  No.  239,  Headquarters  Department  of  the  Missouri,  of 
December  22,  1869,  being  in  the  presence  of  said  court,  prelimi- 
nary to  his  (Armes')  trial,  while  the  matter  of  his  challenge  to  Bvt. 
Lieut. -Col.  David  H.  Buel,  Captain  Ordnance  Department,  a 
member  of  the  court ,  was  proceeding,  did,  in  a  menacing  and  con- 
temptuous manner,  say,  I  would  not  believe  Colonel  Buel  under 
oath.  I  expressed  that  opinion  outside,  before  I  came  in.  I  want 
that  to  go  on  the  record,  too,  as  my  opinion  of  Colonel  Buel,"  re- 
ferring in  this  to  Bvt.  Lieut-Col.  David  H.  Buel,  Captain  Ord- 
nance Department,  a  member  of  the  court,  and  in  the  hearing  of, 
and  intended  to  be  heard  by  the  court  and  the  spectators,  and  to 
the  contempt  of  the  court  and  to  the  causing  of  disorder  and  the 
disturbance  of  the  proceedings  of  the  court. 

But  in  spite  of  the  insults  offered  and  the  vile  action  of  the 
court  I  controlled  my  temper  and  submitted  to  the  action  of  the 
court  without  a  word,  and  was  as  respectful  and  submissive  as 
if  on  duty. 

Whereupon  the  accused  said:  "I  do  not  wish  to  evade  a  trial 
by  any  means,  but  when  I  have  been  told  by  parties  outside  the 


327 

court  that  certain  members  of  the  court  had  expressed  opinions 
unfavorable  to  me,  1  thought  it  but  justice  to  myself  to  object  to 
them  as  members  of  the  court." 

The  court  was  cleared,  and,  after  deliberation,  found  the  ac- 
cused, Bvt.  Maj.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  Captain  Tenth  Cavalry,  "Guilty" 
of  the  charge  and  specification  exhibited  against  him,  and  therefore 
sentenced  him  to  be  confined,  in  charge  of  the  officer  of  the  guard, 
in  the  post  guardhouse  at  this  post  (Fort  Leavenworth,  Kansas) 
during  his  pending  trial,  or  during  the  pleasure  of  the  court,  and 
denied  all  communication  with  anyone. 

And  Colonel  Bnel  was  allowed  to  remain  as  a  member  and  vote 
on  the  sentence. 

Fort  Leavenworth,  Kan.,  March  12,  1870. 
Bvt.  Maj. -Gen.  S.  I).  Sturgis, 

Colonel  Seventh  Cav.  and  President  G.  C.  M., 
Through  the  Officer  of  the  Guard: 

General — I  have  the  honor  to  state  that  the  officer  of  the  guard, 
having  received  orders  not  to  allow  me  to  have  intercourse  with 
anyone,  he  has  taken  the  grounds  that  1  cannot  go  to  my  meals 
without  being  liable  to  have  intercourse  with  some  one.  I  have 
had  nothing  to  eat  since  breakfast,  and  would  respectfully  request 
that  some  provisions  be  made  to  keep  me  from  a  starvation  pun- 
ishment, which  I  should  not  think  any  commanding  officer  would 
wish  to  enforce. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

GEO.  A.  ARMES, 
Capt.  Tenth  Cavalry,  U.  S.  A. 

Main  Guard,  Fort  Leavenworth,  Kan.,  March  12,  1870. 
The  Commanding  Officer  has  verbally  directed  the  officer  of 
the  guard  to  go  with  Major  Armes  to  his  meals  at  the  messhouse. 

(Signed)         EDWARD  RANDALL, 

First  Lieut.  Fifth  Infantry, 

Officer  of  the  Guard. 

Headquarters  Fort  Leavenworth,  Kan.,  March  12,  1870. 
Officer  of  the  Guard : 

The  order  of  the  court  upon  which  Major  Armes  was  arrested 
required  that  until  he  shall  have  purged  himself  of  contempt  of 
the  court  he  would  be  confined  in  the  room  of  the  officer  of  the 
guard  and  not  be  allowed  to  have  intercourse  with  anyone. 
You  will  please  see  that  that  order  be  carried  out. 

Respectfully, 

S.  D.  STURGIS, 
Bvt.  Maj. -Gen.  Commanding. 


328 

(Endorsement.) 

Main  Guard,  Fort  Leavenworth,  February  16,  1870. 
Reply  forwarded  to  Bvt.  Major  Armes,  Captain  Tenth  Cavalry. 

EDW.  L.  RANDALL, 
First  Lieut.  Fifth  Infantry, 

Officer  of  the  Guard. 

The  officer  of  the  guard  will  permit  Mr.  Ketner,  counsel  for  Ma- 
jor Armes,  to  have  an  interview  with  that  officer,  and  as  soon  as 
it  is  over  the  Major  will  be  sent  in  charge  of  a  guard  to  the  court- 
room. 

(Signed)         S.  D.  STURGIS, 

Col.  Seventh  Cav., 
Bvt.  Maj.-Gen.,  U.  S.  A. 
March  12,  1870. 

The  trial  was  then  resumed  of  Bvt.  Maj.  Geo.  A.  Armes'  case, 
the  question  being  on  the  challenge  of  the  accused  to  Colonel 
Buel. 

The  court  was  cleared,  Colonel  Buel  retiring,  and  the  challenge 
to  Bvt.  Lieut. -Col.  David  H.  Buel,  Captain  Ordnance  Department, 
was  sustained. 

Whereupon  the  accused  represented  as  follows: 

"If  the  statement,  as  one  of  my  reasons  for  objecting  to  Colonel 
Buel  serving  on  this  court,  that  'I  would  not  believe  him  under 
oath,'  is  construed  to  be  disrespectful  to  the  court,  I  hereby  dis- 
claim any  intention  of  contempt,  and  without  hesitation  apologize." 

I  was  then  released  from  the  guardhouse. 

The  Judge-Advocate  asks  the  attention  of  the  court  to  the  fact 
that  the  statement  was  not  made  in  any  such  manner  or  with  any 
such  apparent  purpose  as  would  indicate  that  it  was  the  intention 
of  the  accused  to  offer  it  as  one  of  his  reasons  for  challenging  Col- 
onel Buel,  but  was  offered  as  a  gratuitous  insult. 

The  accused  was  then  asked  if  he  objected  any  further  to  any 
member  of  the  court.  The  accused  then  objected  to  Bvt.  Maj. 
David  H.  Brotherton,  Captain  Fifth  Infantry,  on  the  grounds  of 
prejudice. 

The  court  was  cleared,  Major  Brotherton  retiring,  and  refused 
to  sustain  the  challenge  or  excuse  Major  Brotherton. 

The  accused  then  objected  to  Bvt.  Lieut. -Col.  John  S.  Poland, 
Captain  Fifth  Infantry,  as  a  member  of  the  court,  on  the  grounds 
of  prejudice. 

The  court  was  then  cleared,  Bvt.  Lieutenant-Colonel  Poland 
retiring,  and  the  challenge  was  not  sustained. 

The  accused  then  objected  to  Bvt.  Lieut. -Col.  Franklin  H. 
Hunt,  Major  and  Paymaster  of  U.  S.  A.,  on  the  grounds  of  prej- 
udice. 


329 

The  court  was  then  cleared,  Bvt.  Lieutenant-Colonel  Hunt  re- 
tiring, and  refused  to  sustain  the  challenge. 

The  accused  then  objected  to  Bvt.  Maj.-Gen.  Saml.  D.  Sturgis, 
Colonel  Seventh  Cavalry,  as  a  member  of  the  court,  on  the  grounds 
of  prejudice,  and  having  expressed  his  opinion. 

Ques.  Have  you  any  bias  or  prejudice  against  the  accused 
that  will  prevent  your  giving  him  a  fair  and  impartial  trial  on  the 
matter  now  pending,  according  to  your  oath  and  the  evidence 
which  may  be  adduced? 

Ans.     Not  any — not  the  slightest. 

At  the  request  of  the  accused,  General  Sturgis  was  sworn  by 
the  Judge-Advocate  and  put  on  his  "voir  dire." 

Ques.  by  Accused.  Did  you  not  say  that  I  was  not  worthy  to 
hold  a  position  in  the  Army? 

Ans.  I  have  no  recollection  of  saying  anything  of  that  kind. 
Major  Armes  has  been  discussed  so  publicly  that  I  presume  his 
name  has  been  in  the  mouth  of  everybody  in  the  vicinity,  but  I 
have  no  recollection  of  saying  anything  of  the  kind  to  anyone.  I 
don't  remember  saying  anything  of  the  kind,  but  he  has  been  so 
much  discussed  and  so  generally  talked  about,  and  his  conduct  so 
criticised,  that  some  remark  may  have  escaped  me  to  the  effect 
that  if  the  things  under  discussion  were  true  he  was  not  fit  to  be 
in  the  service,  but  I  have  no  recollection  of  saying  even  that  much. 

The  court  was  then  cleared,  Bvt.  Major-General  Sturgis  retir- 
ing, and  the  challenge  was  not  sustained. 

The  members  of  the  court  were  then  duly  and  severally  sworn 
according  to  law  by  the  Judge-Advocate,  and  the  Judge-Advocate 
duly  sworn  according  to  law  by  the  president  of  the  court,  all  of 
which  was  in  the  presence  of  the  accused,  who  was  then  arraigned 
on  the  charges  and  specifications  thereto  already  given. 

(True   copy   of   letter   sent   to   Judge-Advocate-General   of   the 

Department.) 

Leavenworth  City,  Kan.,  May  5,  1870. 
Maj.  D.  G.  Swaim, 

Judge-Advocate,  Department  of  the  Missouri: 
Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  submit  a  brief  statement  of  the  facts  in 
relation  to  the  members  of  the  court-martial  before  which  I  have 
just  been  tried,  and  ask  of  you  if  I  could  expect  justice  from  its 
hands.  I  was  told  by  parties  who  heard  members  of  the  court  say 
at  a  certain  gambling-house  in  this  city  that  if  I  were  brought  be- 
fore it  for  trial  I  would  be  dismissed  from  the  service,  as  they  were 
so  prejudiced  against  me;  that  they  felt  it  their  duty  to  inform  me 
of  the  fact,  in  order  that  I  might  prepare  myself  in  time  to  avoid  a 
trial  from  the  court.  Therefore,  I  objected  to  each  member,  in 
order  that  no  particular  one  would  be  brought  out  as  being  counted 
with  the  plot  to  dismiss  me,  but  after  the  court  had  been  reduced 
to  only  five  members,  it  objected  to  relieving  any  more.  I  had 


330 

just  as  good  grounds  for  objecting  to  three  of  their  five  as  I  had  to 
the  four  that  were  excused.  I  may  have  appeared  to  have  acted  in 
haste  in  my  objecting  to  members,  but  how  could  I  help  it,  when 
I  had  just  cause  to  believe  that  the  Judge- Advocate  was  doing 
everything  in  his  power  to  find  me  guilty? 

He  was  not  satisfied  with  the  facts  as  they  would  have  been 
brought  out,  but  would  falsely  represent  matters  in  such  a  way 
that  I  could  not  expect  justice,  and  some  of  the  members  of  the 
court  seemed  so  stupid  or  drunk  that  they  did  not  appear  to  take 
notice  of  the  Judge-Advocate's  malicious  attempt  to  find  me 
guilty.  I  am  told  that  charges  have  been  preferred  against  him, 
and  that  he  is  trying  to  bring  about  certain  influence  to  avoid  a 
trial,  and  if  he  succeeds  I  cannot  see  where  an  officer  can  expect 
to  find  justice  in  the  Army.  As  for  what  1  have  heard  of  his  char- 
acter, he  will  be  found  guilty  if  ever  brought  to  trial.  I  have  heard 
his  name  brought  up  and  discussed  in  nublic  and  upon  the  streets 
as  being  "one  of  the  d — d  scoundrels  in  the  Army"  (I  only  repeat 
the  words  as  they  were  used  by  an  officer  who  has  known  him  for 
years  and  who  outranks  him).  I  have  been  waiting  for  the  pro- 
mulgation of  the  proceedings  in  my  case  before  forwarding  the 
charges  against  Colonel  Buel,  but,  in  order  that  he  may  be  brought 
to  trial  before  the  witnesses  leave  the  post,  I  forward  them  today. 
If  I  had  not  preferred  charges  against  Captain  Graham  I  would 
not  have  been  brought  to  trial  at  all.  I  do  not  expect  that  the  re- 
viewing authority  can  or  will  approve  the  finding  of  the  court  in 
my  case. 

Please  inform  me  if  there  are  any  charges  on  file  with  you 
against  me,  and  oblige  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

U.  S.  A. 

I  then  had  the  members  of  the  court  that  tried  me  arrested  by 
the  civil  authority  for  false  imprisonment  and  sent  the  following 
request  for  information  upon  which  to  base  the  prosecution : 


jX*-«>—  <  —  •—  —  <M-*>-tJ!£i  ^o«-^~    rt~~<r 

&*<~«-j    /6    '  /*  ?& 


/  3  y  /*/ 


^^o  - 


332 

I  desired  the  names  of  these  men  to  use  as  witnesses  in  a  civil 
court. 

May  22,  1870. 

I  sent  a  set  of  charges  against  S.  D.  Sturgis  to  General  Scho- 
field, which  I  suppose  will  remain  on  file  without  action,  he  ap- 
pearing to  be  one  of  the  conspirators  connected  with  Schofield 
in  trying  to  ruin  me  if  possible. 

On  November  19  I  sent  serious  charges  against  Gen.  A.  D. 
Nelson,  U.  S.  A.,  also  an  additional  set  January  27,  he  also  being 
one  of  the  conspirators.  It  is  not  likely  any  action  will  be  taken 
by  Schofield.  In  November,  1869,  I  preferred  a  set  of  charges 
against  G.  W.  Graham,  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry,  through  Colonel 
Nelson,  then  my  commanding  officer  at  Camp  Supply,  I.  T.  He 
did  all  he  could  to  shield  Graham  from  trial.  I  also  sent  in  a  set 
of  charges  against  Mai.  M.  A.  Kidd,  Maj.  C.  G.  Cox,  Captain 
Buell  and  Col.  Lewis  Merrill. 

From  the  fact  that  I  did  not  insist  upon  Cox  being  brought  to 
trial  charges  were  preferred  against  me  for  neglect  of  duty  in  not 
following  up  the  case  and  being  too  lenient.  Although  charges 
I  had  preferred  against  Major  Kidd,  Lieutenant  Kennedy  and 
others  had  no  attention  paid  to  them,  I  thought  I  had  a  right  to 
use  my  own  discretion  as  commanding  officer  in  forwarding  or 
withdrawing  charges.  From  this  I  am  led  to  believe  that  Gen- 
eral Schofield  is  at  the  head  of  those  who  are  attempting  to  work 
my  ruin. 

I  received  the  following  letter  from  my  brother : 

Washington,  D.  C.,  June  5,  1870. 
Dear  George: 

All  is  hopeless.  We  have  done  all  that  could  be  done,  but  Grant 
has  approved  the  sentence.  The  Secretary  of  War  took  the  case 
personally  to  him,  with  the  recommendation  that  it  be  approved 
even  after  General  Townsend  had  seen  him  (the  Secretary),  and 
did  all  he  could  to  get  him  to  consent  to  have  your  sentence  com- 
muted. The  die  is  cast.  I  have  been  to  the  newspaper  office  and 
made  them  promise  not  to  publish  it,  but  some  outside  parties  have 
gotten  hold  of  it,  and  it  will  soon,  I  fear,  become  generally  known. 

I  will  write  as  soon  as  I  return. 

Affectionately, 

(Signed)         C.  H.  ARMES. 

The  records  show  the  sentence  was  never  approved  by  Presi- 
dent Grant. 


333 

Leavenworth,  Kan.,  July  5,  1870. 
Hon.  W.  W.  Belknap, 

Secretary  of  War, 

Washington,  D.  C. : 

Dear  General — It  is  with  considerable  interest  that  I  address 
you  in  behalf  of  Bvt.  Maj.  Geo.  A.  Armes.  I  was  one  of  his  coun- 
sel before  the  court  which  tried  him  and  sentenced  him  to  dismis- 
sal from  the  service.  I  really  am  surprised  at  the  findings  and 
sentence  of  the  court.  I  know  Major  Armes  to  be  a  high-minded, 
moral  and  upright  gentleman.  He  has  a  record  for  gallant  con- 
duct in  action  excelled  by  no  officer  in  the  Army.  He  is  an  officer 
I  should  think  the  service  could  ill  afford  to  sacrifice  on  such  a 
charge,  so  poorly  supported.  The  witness,  Ben  Betten,  I  know 
to  be  a  truthful  boy,  every  way  entitled  to  credit.  He  was  not  tam- 
pered with,  as  intimated  by  Colonel  Merrill,  the  Judge-Advocate, 
but,  on  the  other  hand,  there  was  such  ill-feeling  on  the  part  of 
Merrill  that  he  would  hold  no  communication  with  Major  Armes 
whatever,  except  through  his  (Armes')  counsel. 

This  witness,  Ben,  positively  contradicts  the  charges  and  speci- 
fications, and  is  corroborated  by  three  other  witnesses.  The 
charge  is  sustained  only  on  the  testimony  of  three  other  witnesses. 

Certainly,  the  preponderance  of  testimony  in  this  case  is  in 
favor  of  the  accused,  and  which,  together  with  his  unblemished 
character,  should  entitle  him  to  an  honorable  acquittal. 

I  can  further  say,  General,  that  I  am  quite  well  acquainted  with 
the  officers  of  this  Department,  and  that  there  is  great  jealousy 
between  them.  Tt  is  not  confined  to  ill-feeling  alone,  but  is  some- 
times manifested  in  most  dishonorable  conduct.  This  is  a  case 
affected  almost  entirely  by  this  feeling.  I  trust,  General,  you  will 
give  this  case  further  consideration,  and  see  that  this  officer  is  not 
ruined  in  his  honor  and  standing  by  prejudice  and  jealousy. 

I  am,  General,  very  respectfullv,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         GEO.  H.  ENGLISH. 


/<&>—  fjt^^-  /5t*^T     y^a^f-f'^i^^      S 

Z^"   t^^t. —  /4**^6   J?z^*-    s^*^    ?-*^ 

2r-*<^  yfe>t*^<;    ^-tr-C       ^i^t-<^     «--*->/£^o "~ 


&~ 


r  <^~f 


^. 


Senate  Chamber,  July  13,  1870. 

Sir— 1  would  call  in  person  to  introduce  Captain  Armes,  the 
bearer  of  this  note,  if  my  duties  in  the  Senate  chamber  would  per- 
mit. I  wish  you  would  see  him  and  hear  his  case.  He  brings  let- 
ters to  me  from  valued  friends,  who  think  he  has  been  unjustly 
treated. 

With  great  respect,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         JAS.  HARLAN. 
HON.  MR.  BELKNAP, 

Secretary  of  War. 


335 

To  show  the  indignity,  arbitrary  and  disgraceful  action  of  the 
president  of  the  court  and  of  General  Schofield,  who  knew  the 
sentence  and  expected  it  to  be  carried  out,  fearing  that  I  might  be 
able  to  bring  some  influence  to  bear  in  my  favor,  immediately 
ordered  me  to  return  to  my  post,  hundreds  of  miles  away,  there 
to  await  the  promulgation  of  the  sentence.  In  spite  of  my  .appeals 
to  be  allowed  to  await  the  result  at  Fort  Leavenworth  the  order 
was  enforced,  thereby  causing  me  great  inconvenience  and  put- 
ting me  to  the  terrible  expense  of  having  to  pay  my  own  way  from 
Camp  Supply,  I.  T.,  to  Washington  city  after  the  sentence  of 
dismissal  went  into  effect. 

Upon  the  advice  of  counsel  I  brought  a  suit  at  Leavenworth 
City  for  ten  thousand  dollars  damages  for  false  imprisonment 
and  the  arbitrary  treatment  suffered  at  the  hands  of  General  Scho- 
field, Sturgis  and  his  court. 


Gov.  AND  MRS.  KIRKWOOD. 


Immediately  upon  receipt  of  my  order  of  dismissal  at  Camp 
Supply  I  was  forced  to  sell  everything  I  could  convert  into  cash 
at  a  sacrifice,  and  after  paying  my  counsed  fees  and  the  enormous 
debts  that  I  had  contracted  in  the  effort  to  save  my  commission, 


336 

I  borrowed  money  from  the  post  trader,  Mr.  Wright,  to  pay  my 
expenses  home,  and  landed  in  Washington  city  without  sufficient 
means  to  purchase  a  change  of  clothing.  In  the  meantime  I  had 
written  to  friends,  among  them  Governor  Kirkwood,  who  sent 
me  a  letter,  which  I  took  in  person  to  W.  W.  Belknap,  then  Sec- 
retary of  War,  asking  a  re-opening  and  reconsideration  of  the 
case ;  and  after  handing  him  this  letter  from  the  Governor,  who 
had  made  him  what  he  was,  giving  him  a  start  in  the  Army  by 
commissioning  him  as  an  officer  of  volunteers,  he  treated  the  let- 
ter with  contempt,  throwing  it  in  the  waste-basket  and  insul- 
tingly remarking  to  me  that  under  no  circumstances  would  he 
re-open  the  case  or  give  any  attention  to  it ;  that  I  had  preferred 
charges  against  several  of  the  best  officers  in  the  Army,  and  that 
an  officer  who  would  interfere  with  the  actions  of  other  officers 
was  not  fit  to  be  in  the  service. 

I  stooped  down  and  picked  the  letter  up  and  said,  "If  you  have 
no  objections  I  would  like  to  retain  it."  He  said,  "Yes,  you  may 
keep  it  if  it  will  do  you  any  good/' 

I  then  found  it  necessary  to  get  employment  of  some  kind. 
Meeting  Judge  Moore  and  Jessie  Bright,  a  son  of  the  late  Senator, 
and  after  an  explanation  of  my  circumstances  they  kindly  invited 
me  into  their  office  on  Seventh  street,  between  E  and  F,  assign- 
ing me  to  a  desk  with  all  the  stationery  I  needed,  with  the  as- 
surance that  I  need  not  feel  uneasy  about  having  to  pay  them  for 
any  courtesies  extended  until  I  was  in  a  position  to  do  so  without 
embarrassment.  Feeling  thus  encouraged,  I  started  as  a  real- 
estate  broker. 
*  *  *  *  ****** 

Not  being  able  to  make  arrangements  with  Chipman  &  Hosmer, 
I  called  on  Judge  T.  W.  Bartley  (brother-in-law  of  General 
Sherman)  of  the  firm  of  Bartley  &  Stanton,  who  took  charge  of 
my  case,  prepared  an  argument  and  called  upon  the  Secretary  of 
War,  from  whom  they  failed  to  get  any  satisfaction. 

Then  they  submitted  the  case  to  the  President,  after  which  they 
informed  me  that  the  principal  obstacle  in  the  way  was  the  suit 
pending  against  the  court  at  Fort  Leavenworth,  Kan.,  and  ad- 
vised me  that  if  I  wished  to  be  restored  I  should  send  out  an  ap- 
plication withdrawing  the  suit  pending  against  the  court,  which 
I  did. 


337 

Not  having  had  any  experience  in  the  real-estate  business, 
]  found  it  rather  an  up-hill  matter  to  succeed.  My  first  encour- 
agement was  with  Colonel  Eaton,  whom  I  had  known  for  several 
years,  applying  to  me  for  a  loan,  which  I  carried  through,  making 
a  commission  of  three  hundred  dollars  in  cash,  which  greatly  en- 
couraged me  to  continue,  it  being  the  first  money  I  had  earned 
in  my  new  pursuit. 

Of  course  the  first  thing  after  paying  a  portion  of  my  debt  was 
to  purchase  a  horse  and  buggy,  which  gave  me  an  opportunity  to 
take  customers  around  and  show  them  property,  and  in  addition 
to  my  business  matters  I  had  an  opportunity  to  take  in  social 
functions,  being  encouraged  to  visit  and  attend  receptions  at  Gen- 
eral Sherman's,  whose  daughter,  Miss  Minnie,  introduced  me  to 
many  of  her  friends,  who  entertained  me,  feeling  that  if  received 
by  the  Sherman  family  my  sentence  of  court-martial  did  not  os- 
tracise me  from  good  society.  I  shall  never  forget  the  kind  hos- 
pitality extended  to  me  by  Miss  Minnie,  who  knew  me  well 
enough  to  know  that  the  sentence  of  the  court  was  unjust  and 
brutal. 

I  received  many  letters  of  sympathy  from  friends  all  over 
the  country,  and  was  encouraged  in  my  real-estate  business  by 
hundreds  of  capitalists  and  owners  of  property  giving  me  the 
exclusive  right  to  sell  or  rent  their  holdings,  and  it  was  not  long 
before  I  purchased  a  house  on  Sixth  street,  between  O  and  P, 
bought  me  a  pair  of  horses,  furnished  my  house  and  kept  bach- 
elor's hall,  where  I  could  entertain  my  friends  to  my  own  satis- 
faction. 

In  the  meantime  I  secured  letters  of  recommendation  from 
many  friends  who  had  known  me  from  boyhood,  among  them 
being  Colonel  W.  G.  Moore  and  others. 

National  Hotel  (F.  Tenney  &  Co.); 

Washington,  D.  C,  September  20,  1870. 
To  President  Grant: 

Sir — I  take  great  pleasure  in  saying  that  from  a  personal  knowl- 
edge of  and  acquaintance  with  Capt.  George  A.  Armes,  U.  S.  A., 
I  believe  him  to  be  one  of  the  most  efficient  officers  that  has  been 
on  duty  on  the  plains,  and  that  he  is  in  every  way  worthy. 

To  be  more  particular,  I  was  at  Forts  Laramie,  Mitchell  and 
Sedgwick  during  the  winter  of  1866-67,  and  know  from  personal 

22 


338 

observation  that  the  service  that  Captain  Arrnes  performed  in  the 
pursuit  and  punishment  of  the  Indians,  and  recapturing  citizens' 
stock,  and  General  Cook's  complimentary  order  to  Captain  Armes 
for  his  services  so  well  performed  in  midwinter,  caused  much  envy 
and  jealousy  towards  Captain  Armes,  and  I  state  that  I  heard 
many  officers  speak  disparagingly  of  Captain  Armes,  owing,  as  I 
believe,  to  his  great  activity  and  persistence  in  his  Indian  cam- 
paigns. 

Captain  Armes  bears  the  name  and  has  the  reputation  of  being 
a  strictly  sober  and  otherwise  moral  man,  and  in  this  respect  far 
above  the  average  of  his  fellow-officers. 

I  can  but  think  this  charge  on  which  he  was  tried  as  the  merest 
pretext.  I  will  say  that,  in  common  with  ten  thousand  (and  more) 
other  citizens  of  Kansas,  Nebraska,  Colorado,  Wyoming  and  Mon- 
tana, I  earnestly  trust  your  Excellency  will  restore  Captain  Armes 
to  his  rank  and  place  in  the  Army,  to  date  from  the  time  of  his 
dismissal,  so  that  he  may  continue  to  serve  or  be  at  liberty  to  hon- 
orably resign  the  place  he  has  so  successfully  filled. 

If  your  Excellency  requires  it,  in  order  to  his  restoration,  I 
would  engage  to  get  such  a  number  of  signers  to  a  petition  as  will 
show  how  Captain  Armes  is  appreciated  in  the  West,  where  he  has 
served  for  four  years,  or  nearly  so. 

Respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         J.  M.  CHIVINGTON, 

Member  National  Central  Committee  of  the  Soldiers'  and  Sailors' 
Convention. 

To  the  President  of  the  United  States: 

Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes  of  the  Army  of  the  United  States  has  re- 
cently been  tried  by  court-martial,  and  sentenced  to  be  dismissed 
from  the  service. 

The  evidence  was  vague  and  contradictory  upon  which  he  was 
convicted,  and  can  hardly  be  said  to  warrant  a  finding  of  guilty  of 
the  allegations.  But  we  are  satisfied  that  the  whole  matter  has  its 
origin  in  malice,  and  has  no  foundation  in  truth. 

Major  Armes  is  a  most  gallant  officer,  and  has  shown  his  bravery 
on  many  occasions.  We  respectfully  ask  that  the  sentence  may  be 
disapproved,  and  Major  Armes  restored  to  his  position. 

JAMES  W.  NYE. 
LUKE  P.  POLAND. 
C.  H.  VAN  WYCK. 
LEWIS  MCKENZTE. 
I  respectfully  concur. 

AMASA  COBB. 


339 

This  officer  is  very  highly  recommended  to  me  by  gentlemen  in 
whom  I  have  the  fullest  confidence  for  his  gallant  services,  both 
during  the  war  and  more  especially  during  the  Indian  disturbance 
on  the  plains  and  in  Kansas,  and  I  ask  for  him  the  kindly  consid- 
eration of  the  President,  and  that  his  meritorious  services  may  be 
permitted  to  offset,  as  far  as  may  be  consistent,  any  irregularities 
that  may  be  charged  against  him. 

(Signed)         E.  G.  Ross. 

I  concur. 

(Signed)         S.  C.  POMEROY. 

1  know  nothing  of  the  facts,  but  hope  this  young  man  may  have 
a  hearing. 

(Signed)         JOHN  A.  LOGAN. 
I  concur. 

(Signed)         R.  S.  AYER. 

(Signed)         WM.  MILNES. 

This  is  a  case  that  ought  to  be  reopened.  There  are  strong  rea- 
sons to  believe  that  malice  was  at  the  foundation  of  this  matter, 
and  that  this  officer  has  not  had  a  fair  trial.  I  hope  he  may  have 
justice  done  him. 

(Signed)         SIDNEY  CLARKE,  M.  C. 


CHAPTER  IX. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  January  i,  1871. 

I  made  the  rounds  New  Year's,  calling  all  day,  and  met  many 
of  my  old  friends  whom  I  had  not  seen  for  several  years ;  was 
snubbed  by  quite  a  number  who,  I  thought  at  one  time,  were 
ladies,  and  who  appeared  as  friendly  and  sociable  as  possible 
when  I  was  an  officer,  but  now,  when  I  appear  to  be  under  a  cloud, 
they  seem  ready  to  add  another  kick.  My  guests  noticed  the 
coolness  displayed,  but  it  made  them  more  attentive  to  me,  as 
they  understood  my  case  thoroughly,  and  nothing  that  could  be 
said  by  anyone  could  change  their  opinion  of  me.  If  I  had  been 
in  full  uniform  and  on  duty  with  the  President  I  could  not  have 
received  more  attention  than  was  given  to  me  by  Miss  Minnie 
Sherman,  who  introduced  us  to  a  bevy  of  beautiful  girls  receiving 
with  her.  The  Misses  Mackey,  daughters  of  Dr.  Mackey ;  Miss 
Alice  Bartley,  daughter  of  Judge  T.  W.  Bartley,  whose  mother 
is  a  sister  to  General  Sherman,  made  my  party  feel  at  home  and 
did  all  they  could  to  make  our  visit  as  pleasant  as  possible,  and  so 
did  Miss  Julia  Clephane,  a  sister  of  the  Hon.  Lewis  Clephane, 
one  of  our  leading  and  prominent  citizens;  also  ex-Mayor  M.  G. 
Emory  and  his  daughters,  and  the  Misses  Kidwell  of  Georgetown, 
the  Misses  Welch,  Witherell,  Woods,  Newmans,  Clarks,  Polkin- 
horns  were  among  those  who  made  us  feel  like  welcome  visitors. 
It  is  now  12  o'clock,  and  after  being  assured  by  my  friends  of 
their  enjoyment  all  day,  we  parted,  to  meet  again  soon,  I  hope. 

January  2,  1871. 

I  have  been  in  my  office  most  of  the  day  looking  over  old  let- 
ters, bills  and  papers  of  last  year,  and  find  that  of  the  nine  officers 
against  whom  I  filed  charges  at  the  War  Department  I  have  had 
the  satisfaction  of  knowing  that  three  have  been  court-martialed 
and  convicted. 

So  I  have  no  cause  to  complain  when  I  consider  the  fact  that 
I  landed  in  this  city  without  money  enough  to  buy  a  change  of 
clothing,  disgraced  and  looked  upon  as  an  outcast  by  many  who 
had  been  my  pretended  friends,  but  with  the  assistance  of  Judge 
Moore  and  Jesse  Bright,  whom  I  have  mentioned  heretofore  as 


taking  me  in  their  office,  gave  me  encouragement  and  a  good 
start  in  business,  and  the  lady  friends  whom  1  mentioned  as  hav- 
ing called  upon  New  Year's  Day,  set  me  all  right  in  society, 
which  braced  me  up  with  encouragement  to  persevere  and  seek 
redress  from  the  officials  in  power  to  have  the  wrongs  righted 
and  render  me  the  justice  to  which  I  am  entitled.  Members  of 
Congress,  Senators  and  other  officials  took  a  great  interest  in  me 
socially,  among  whom  I  made  many  personal  friends,  as  the  ex- 
tracts from  a  few  letters  submitted  will  prove.  All  the  property 
that  I  had  in  the  world  had  been  sacrificed  by  me  in  trying  to  save 
my  commission,  except  a  few  lots  at  the  corner  of  Seventeenth 
and  R  streets,  worth  $5000,  which  I  deeded  to  Judge  Bartley, 
Stanton  &  Casey  as  their  fees  for  taking  charge  of  my  case.  They 
being  big  lawyers,  naturally  required  big  fees,  but  they  earned  all 
I  gave  them,  and  more,  too,  as  they  called  on  the  President  and 
Secretary  of  War,  Judge-Advocate-General  and  many  other  offi- 
cials in  my  behalf,  making  arguments  and  doing  everything  pos- 
sible to  have  me  restored.  Finally,  they  made  arrangements  with 
Generals  Grant  and  Belknap  to  have  me  reappointed  as  a  Captain 
of  cavalry  on  condition  that  I  would  withdraw  the  suit  for  $10,000 
against  the  members  of  the  court-martial  pending  at  Leaven- 
worth,  Kan.  Knowing  I  had  a  clear  case  and  was  sure  to  win,  I  at 
first  hesitated,  but  upon  their  advice  and  explanation  that  it  would 
put  me  right  and  in  good  standing  before  the  world,  and  having 
made  over  $25,000  in  my  business  since  July,  I  felt  as  if  I  could 
easily  sacrifice  the  $10,000  in  order  to  have  my  record  clear  at  the 
War  Department,  and  therefore  consented  for  them  to  go  ahead. 
Immediately  after  the  said  suit  was  withdrawn  and  dismissed 
Belknap  sent  for  me  and  said,  "I  have  decided  to  require  your 
resignation  before  sending  your  name  to  the  Senate  for  appoint- 
ment as  Captain  in  the  Army."  When  I  remarked  that  I  did  not 
see  how  it  was  possible  for  me  to  resign  from  a  place  I  did  not 
hold,  he  touched  a  bell  and  directed  a  clerk  to  write  out  a  resig- 
nation, ordering  him  to  leave  it  in  blank,  saying,  "You  sign  that 
paper,  Mr.  Armes,  and  I  can  put  the  date  in  after  you  have  been 
confirmed  and  commissioned."  Upon  the  spur  of  the  moment, 
without  stopping  to  think  of  the  predicament  I  would  be  placed  in, 
I  signed  it  in  blank,  but  upon  returning  to  my  room  began  to 
consider  the  matter  seriously,  and  felt  that  some  underhanded 
means  were  on  foot  to  use  me  in  trying  to  stop  the  proceedings 


342 

at  Leavenworth  against  the  court-martial  and  save  the  War  De- 
partment the  scandal  which  that  suit  was  liable  to  bring  upon  it. 
And  feeling  that  it  was  only  a  trick  and  an  excuse,  and  that  I 
would  be  in  a  worse  position  in  the  end,  being  made  to  appear  as 
if  I  could  not  remain  in  the  Army,  I  immediately  sent  a  letter  re- 
questing that  the  paper  I  had  signed  be  returned  to  me. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  January  4,  1871. 
Hon.  W.  W.  Belknap, 

Secretary  of  War: 

Sir — At  the  time  when  the  President  was  about  to  send  my  name 
to  the  Senate,  restoring  me  to  my  position  as  a  Captain  in  the 
Army,  you  required  me  to  deposit  with  you  my  resignation,  with 
blank  date,  saying  that  otherwise  I  would  not  be  nominated  at  all. 
Under  the  compulsion  of  these  circumstances,  I  was  induced  to 
do  as  you  required,  but  I  have  since  come  to  the  conclusion  that  I 
committed  an  error  in  giving  my  resignation  as  the  condition  of 
my  nomination.  I  therefore  now  withdraw  my  resignation,  and 
if,  in  consequence  of  this,  you  should  cause  my  nomination  to  be 
withdrawn  from  the  Senate,  I  prefer  that  result  to  the  present  posi- 
tion of  the  matter.  *  *  * 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  very  respectfully, 
Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Late  Captain  Tenth  Cavalry. 

Before  the  above  letter  had  reached  the  Secretary  of  War  my 
nomination  had  been  sent  to  the  Senate,  but  my  letter  recalling 
the  blank  resignation  appeared  to  have  offended  the  Secretary  of 
War  to  such  an  extent  that  I  was  not  confirmed,  and  soon  dis- 
covered that  the  inducement  offered  to  have  me  restored  was 
only  a  ruse  to  get  the  suit  at  Leavenworth  against  the  court  with- 
drawn and  dismissed.  I  immediately  requested  that  a  copy  of 
any  charges  or  reports  that  tended  to  reflect  upon  me  be  fur- 
nished in  order  that  I  might  submit  them  to  Congress  for  an  in- 
vestigation, which  was  refused  and  further  correspondence  with 
the  War  Department  denied  me. 

Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  January  10,  1871. 
Mr.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 

Washington,  D.  C. : 

Sir — I  have  respectfully  to  inform  you  that  your  application  for 
a  copy  of  all  charges,  specifications  and  reports  on  file  against  you 


343 

in  this  office  is  not  favorably  considered,  and  that  the  Department 
declines  further  correspondence  with  you  on  the  subject. 

It  is  proper  to  remind  you  that  you  are  already  familiar  with  all 
charges  against  you  which  have  received  official  notice. 
Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         E.  D.  TOWNSEND, 

Adjt.-General. 

The  following  letter  addressed  to  an  Army  officer  other  than 
myself,  is  self-explanatory : 

Fifth  Ave.  Hotel,  New  York,  January  30,  1871. 
My  Dear  Captain : 

Being  informed  that  Colonel  Merrill  while  on  duty  as  Judge- 
Advocate  had  solicited  by  letter,  a  fee  from  you  for  securing  your 
acquittal,  I  very  much  desire  a  copy  of  this  letter — or  the  origi- 
nal— to  use  in  a  certain  quarter  and  hope  you  will  kindly  send  it 
to  me  at  your  early  convenience.  Give  me  any  further  informa- 
tion you  may  have.  I  am,  very  respectfully, 


While  going  on  with  my  real-estate  transactions  I  kept  up  a 
large  correspondence  all  over  the  country,  receiving  letters  of 
recommendation  and  endorsements  from  friends  who  desired  to 
aid  me  in  regaining  my  lost  commission,  among  them  the  fol- 
lowing : 

March  8,  1871. 
Hon.  F.  P.  Blair,  Jr., 

U.  S.  Senate: 

Dear  General — Permit  me  to  introduce  Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 
late  of  the  Army,  whom  I  well  knew  when  serving  on  the  plains  as 
a  gallant  and  efficient  officer  and  a  terror  to  the  Indians.  I  know 
nothing  of  the  charges  which  caused  his  dismissal  from  the  Army, 
but  have  heard  that  they  are  of  a  trivial  nature.  Since  my  ac- 
quaintance with  him  I  have  never  heard  anything  derogatory  of 
his  character.  He  desires  your  assistance  in  getting  him  restored 
to  his  former  position,  and  should  you,  upon  investigation  of  his 
case,  find  it  as  it  has  been  represented  to  me,  you  will  confer  an 
obligation  on,  me  by  giving  your  aid. 

I  am,  most  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         W.  A.  CARTER. 


344 

Mr.  Belknap  having  failed  to  furnish  me  any  copies  of  charges 
or  anything  that  reflected  upon  my  character  on  file  in  his  office, 
I  had  to  work  somewhat  in  the  dark,  but  in  order  that  my  resig- 
nation should  not  remain  on  file  in  blank  I  sent  a  second  request 
for  its  return. 

Of  course  no  attention  was  given  to  it.  In  the  meantime  I  got 
up  a  petition  to  the  President  of  the  United  States,  which  was  en- 
dorsed by  those  who  had  known  me  personally  for  several  years, 
as  follows : 

Washington,  D.  C,  March  4,  1871. 
His  Excellency,  U.  S.  Grant, 

President  of  the  United  States: 

The  Senate  having  failed  to  act  on  the  nomination  of  Capt.  Geo. 
A.  Armes  before  the  adjournment  today,  we  respectfully  request 
your  Excellency  to  renew  the  nomination,  as  we  are  confident  it 
will  be  confirmed  at  the  present  session.  We  feel  great  interest 
in  the  restoration  of  Captain  Armes,  as  we  know  that  he  has  been 
unjustly  dismissed  from  the  Army.  The  charge  was  trivial  at 
best  and  the  evidence  contradictory,  although  it  was  plainly  insti- 
gated by  the  malice  of  his  accusers. 

The  faithfulness  and  good  conduct  of  Captain  Armes  during 
the  war,  for  which  he  was  several  times  commended  and  promoted, 
and  his  upright  character  as  a  gentleman,  entitle  him  to  this  act  of 
justice  at  the  hands  of  his  country. 

L.  P.  POLAND.  T.  C.  THEAKER. 

JNO.  C.  UNDERWOOD.  SAML.  Ross. 

F.  E.  SPINNER.  B.  F.  GRAFTON. 

A.  M.  MCDONALD.  LEROY  R.  TUTTLE. 

J.  B.  DONLEY.  GEO.  P.  FISHER. 

JNO.  A.  SMITH.  G.  W.  SAMPSON. 

WM.  HERRING.  J.  J.  JOHNSON. 

Jos.  CASEY.  A.  C.  BRADLEY. 

T.  W.  BARTLEY.  GEO.  F.  WRIGHT. 

O.  H.  DOCKERY.  S.  H.  FIOGE,  JR. 

JNO.  A.  MITCHELL.  CHAS.  O'NEIL. 

R.  F.  VAN  HORN.  R.  R.  BUTLER. 

FRED  P.  STANTON.  JACOB  C.  STEVENSON. 

SYDNEY  CLARK.  LEONARD  MYERS. 

JAS.  H.  PRATT,  JR.  C.  H.  VAN  WYCK. 

GEO.  P.  VAN  WYCK.  JNO.  HILL. 

W.  P.  WYLIE.  P.  FILETUS  SAWYER, 

R.  M.  HALL.  J.  BUFFINGTON. 

AMASA  COBB.  WILLIS  MUSSON. 


345 

JNO.  NYE.  D.  K.  CARTER. 

W.  D.  COLT.  H.  O.  O'CONNOR. 

GEO.  BURGESS.  W.  B.  DONOYLIEN, 
T.  W.  FERRY.  New  York  Democrat. 

M.  G.  EMORY.  JAS.  BURR, 
CHAS.  EWING.  Washington  Chronicle. 

ALLEN  RUTHERFORD.          W.  R.  COLLINS, 
J.  S.  ASPER.  Washington  Star. 

I  have  known  Captain  Armes  from  his  boyhood;  he  belongs  to 
a  good  family,  and  has  always  borne  a  high  character. 

(Signed)         S.  B.  NOYES. 

I  have  the  honor  to  state  that  if  my  name  is  sent  up  today  I  will 
abide   by   the   decision  of   the  Senate,  and  not  again  trouble  the 
President. 
Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Late  Captain  Tenth  Cav. 
March  8,  1871. 

Judge  Bartley,  Judge  Stanton,  Judge  Casey  and  Judge  Poland 
all  called  upon  President  Grant  with  the  above  petition  and  several 
strong  letters,  and  after  quietly  listening  to  what  my  friends  had 
to  say,  General  Grant  informed  them  that  Mr.  Belknap  had  stated 
that  he  would  resign  his  office  as  Secretary  of  War  before  he 
would  consent  to  my  being  restored  to  the  Army,  and  he  could 
think  of  no  other  resort  but  to  apply  to  Congress  and  get  a  bill 
passed  authorizing  my  restoration.  I  therefore  had  a  bill  intro- 
duced, which  was  referred  to  the  Military  Committee.  In  the 
meantime  I  received  letters  from  Governor  Harvey  of  Kansas, 
whom  I  helped  to  elect  to  his  office ;  Judge  Upsher,  who  was  Sec- 
retary of  Interior,  endorsed  by  Treasurer  F.  E.  Spinner,  and  also 
a  letter  from  Hon.  A.  E.  Garrett  of  Tennessee,  the  sentiments  of 
which  show  that  I  had  not  lost  their  friendship  on  account  of  the 
action  of  the  court-martial.  I  also  submit  one  from  General 
Sherman  to  his  brother,  which  I  requested  him  to  write  and 
which  I  have  not  had  occasion  to  use  in  applying  for  any  Gov- 
ernment office,  but  secured  his  friendship  and  active  co-operation 
and  assistance  as  a  Senator,  who  has  since  taken  an  active  part 
in  mv  behalf. 


346 

Headquarters  Army  of  the  United  States, 

Washington,  D.  C,  April  3,  1871. 
Hon.  John  Sherman, 

U.  S.  Senate: 

Dear  Brother — The  bearer  of  this,  G.  A.  Armes,  was  an  officer 
of  the  Army  of  good  repute,  but  got  into  some  scrapes  that  re- 
sulted in  his  dismissal.  At  this  time  I  regard  it  as  impracticable 
for  him  to  regain  his  lost  commission,  but  1  know  of  no  good  rea- 
son why  he  may  not  undertake  some  civil  affair  or  position,  if  he 
applies  to  you  for  assistance  to  this  end.  I  know  of  no  good  reason 
why  you  should  not  give  it. 

Affectionately, 

(Signed)     W.  T.  SHERMAN, 

General. 

The  following  was  from  the  Secretary  of  the  Interior : 

Washington,  D.  C.,  March  22,  1871. 

Sir — I  frequently  met  Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes  on  the  plains  in 
Kansas  while  he  w:as  in  the  military  service. 

He  at  all  times  bore  himself  like  a  gentleman,  was  neat  and  clean 
in  his  person  and  respectful  in  his  manner.  He  always  appeared 
devoted  to  and  proud  of  his  profession. 

I  hear  with  much  regret  the  difficulty  in  which  he  has  become 
involved,  and  join  with  his  friends  in  the  request  that  you  will,  if 
practicable,  relieve  him  of  the  dishonor  under  which  I  cannot  but 
think  he  is  unjustly  suffering. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         J.  P.  UPSHER, 

Secretary  of  Interior. 
The  President; 

Believing  that  Major  Armes  was  unjustly  removed  from  his 
position  in  the  Army,  and  that  he  is  a  meritorious  officer,  I  do 
hope  he  may  be  restored  to  his  former  position  in  the  Army. 

(Signed)         F.  E.  SPINNER. 

Having  been  dropped  as  a  member  of  the  Society  of  the  Army 
of  the  Potomac  on  account  of  the  action  of  the  court-martial  at 
Leavenworth,  I  could  not  but  feel  very  sore,  as  we  there  had 
very  interesting  annual  meetings  and  banquets,  where  we  could 
meet  each  other  and  talk  over  the  past.  Being  anxious  to  remain 
on  the  rolls,  I  sent  a  letter  to  Gen.  George  G.  Meade,  our  Presi- 
dent, for  his  views,  to  which  he  sent  the  following  reply : 

Headquarters  Military  Division  of  the  Atlantic, 

Philadelphia,  May  I,  1871. 


347 

Geo.  A.  Armes, 

No.  614  Twelfth  street, 

Washington,  D.  C: 

Dear  Sir — Upon  my  return  from  an  absence  from  home  I  find 
yours  of  the  2/th  ult.  Under  the  constitution  of  the  Society  of  the 
Army  of  the  Potomac,  your  dismissal  from  the  Army  (whether 
just  or  unjust)  would  prevent  your  admission  as  a  member. 
Should  the  Senate  confirm  your  application  this  would  be  a  re- 
versal of  the  judgment  of  the  court  and  would  restore  you  to  the 
status,  rendering  you  eligible  to  election  as  a  member  of  the 
Society. 

Very  truly,  yours, 

(Signed)         GEO.  G.  MEADE. 

The  following  is  a  portion  of  the  correspondence  in  connection 
with  charges  and  statements  in  relation  to  Maj.  Lewis  Merrill  of 
the  United  States  Cavalry,  one  of  my  principal  persecutors  in  the 
Army,  commencing  immediately  after  the  complimentary  order 
of  General  Cooke  was  issued  in  relation  to  my  successful  raid  and 
destruction  of  an  Indian  village,  for  which  I  was  specially  pro- 
moted over  several  hundred  officers,  causing  Merrill  to  undertake 
to  break  me  down  through  jealousy  and  envy,  he  being  a  gradu- 
ate of  West  Point,  and  avoided  running  any  risks  of  exposure  dur- 
ing his  whole  career : 

War  Department, 

Bureau  of  Military  Justice,  February  8,  1871. 
Respectfully  returned  to  the  Secretary  of  War: 
This  person  having  recently  been  dismissed  from  the  Army 
upon  conviction  of  "Conduct  unbecoming  an  officer  and  a  gentle- 
man," it  is  conceived  that  charges  made  by  him  against  an  officer 
of  the  Army  in  good  standing,  and  presented  in  a  general  form, 
without  specification  or  support,  cannot  be  entertained  by  the  Sec- 
retary of  War.  When  the  circumstances  and  details  of  the  alleged 
offenses  are  fully  exhibited,  and  the  charges  are  so  supported  by 
the  affidavits  of  credible  witnesses  (other  than  the  writer  himself), 
as  clearly  to  indicate  a  prima  facie  case  against  the  officer  accused, 
the  same  may,  in  the  opinion  of  this  Bureau,  properly  be  consid- 
ered by  the  Secretary  of  War. 

J.  HOLT, 

Judge-Advocate  General. 
Concurred  in  by  the  Secretary  of  War. 
ED.  SHRIVER, 

Ins. -Gen. 

The  reader  cannot  help  but  observe  from  the  endorsement  of 
Judge  Holt,  the  Judge- Advocate-General,  that  he  was  already 
prejudiced  against  me ;  therefore  I  could  not  expect  justice  or  a 


348 

favorable  opinion  in  the  action  of  any  case  affecting  me  which 
was  before  him  for  investigation ;  and  he  had  a  great  deal  of 
weight  with  other  officials  who  had  a  disposition  to  help  me. 
Many  were  prejudiced  by  him  until  a  personal  investigation  of 
facts  convinced  them  that  there  was  a  conspiracy  formed  to  force 
me  from  the  Army,  believing  or  feeling  that  I  was  too  quick  to 
notice  the  failings  or  dishonesty  of  officers. 

December  31,  1871. 

During  the  past  year,  in  addition  to  the  recommendations  and 
correspondence  submitted,  events  show  that  I  took  an  active  part 
in  trying  to  defend  myself  against  the  persecutors  who  were  de- 
termined that  I  should  not  be  restored  under  any  circumstances, 
but  as  my  salary  from  the  Government  had  to  stop  and  I  had  no 
income  from  any  source  whatever,  I  gave  a  great  portion  of  my 
time  to  real-estate  transactions ;  was  very  successful  in  many,  and 
was  enabled  to  meet  a  good  class  of  people,  who  became  greatly 
interested  in  my  behalf. 

Hon.  Frederic  P.  Stanton,  attorney-at-law,  1303  F  street, wrote: 

Washington,  D.  C,  May  27,  1871. 
Gen.  S.  C.  Pomeroy, 

U.  S.  Senator: 

Dear  Sir — At  the  request  of  Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes  I  write  this 
note  to  say  that  I  have  thoroughly  examined  the  record  of  the 
court-martial  which  tried  and  dismissed  him  from  the  service,  and 
am  satisfied  that  great  injustice  has  been  done  him.  There  was 
nothing  developed  in  the  whole  case  which  in  the  slightest  degree 
affected  his  honor  and  integrity.  The  charge  on  which  he  was 
convicted  was,  at  the  worst,  only  an  indiscretion,  which,  even  if  he 
were  guilty,  ought  not  to  have  been  punished  so  severely,  but  I 
am  satisfied  from  the  record  of  the  trial,  and  also  from  my  knowl- 
edge of  the  man,  that  he  was  not  guilty,  and  that  the  whole  prose- 
cution was  the  result  of  malice  and  envy  on  the  part  of  civil  officers. 

It  is  the  universal  testimony  of  leading  officers  of  the  Army  that 
Captain  Armes  was  a  good  soldier  and  distinguished  for  his  energy 
and  gallantry.  I  have  talked  with  Major-General  Hancock  and 
some  other  officers  on  this  subject,  and  derive  my  knowledge  on 
this  subject  from  them.  I  esteem  Captain  Armes  as  a  gentleman 
of  unusual  freedom  from  the  vices  of  young  men  in  the  Army,  and 
I  have  no  doubt  he  is  well  qualified  for  almost  any  civil  employ- 
ment he  would  undertake.  It  is  with  a  view  to  some  civil  employ- 
ment, as  I  understand,  that  he  asks  for  this  note.  I  have  no  hesi- 
tation in  recommending  him  as  worthy  of  confidence,  in  spite  of 
the  persecution  he  has  suffered  in  the  Army. 
Very  truly,  yours, 

(Signed)         FRED  P.  STANTON. 


CHAPTER  X. 

January  I,  1872. 

I  drove  my  team  around  to  the  Arlington  at  10  this  A.  M.,  when 
Mr.  W.  W.  Batchelder,  Judge  Zering  and  Lieutenant  Hardie  got 
into  my  carriage,  and  we  made  New  Year's  calls.  Of  course  we 
called  on  old  friends  and  new  acquaintances,  as  follows :  ,  The 
Misses  Morgan,  the  Misses  Larner  and  the  ladies  of  the  Cabinet, 
and  made  many  other  official  calls. 

Below  are  given  samples  of  the  efforts  made  by  my  enemies  to 
accomplish  my  downfall : 


350 

Fort  Sill,  Indian  Territory,  January  3,  1872. 
To  the  Honorable  Chairman  Military  Committee, 

U.  S.  House  of  Representatives, 

Washington,  D.  C.: 

Sir — Many  of  the  officers  signing  this  paper  served  for  a  num- 
ber of  years  in  the  same  regiment  with  the  individual  above  men- 
tioned, and  they  all  know  him  intimately,  personally  or  by  reputa- 
tion, and  desire  very  respectfully  to  submit  for  the  consideration 
of  your  honorable  committee  the  following: 

Mr.  George  A.  Armes  was  formerly  a  Captain  in  the  Tenth  Cav- 
alry, and  he  was  notoriously  incompetent  for  the  position  which 
he  afterwards  was  dismissed  from  in  disgrace  by  the  sentence  of  a 
General  Court-Martial  for  conduct  unworthy  an  officer  and  a  gen- 
tleman. He  was  incapacitated  by  want  of  education  alone,  being 
unable  to  write  or  even  spell  correctly,  and  a  want  of  veracity  and 
integrity  of  character  in  his  ordinary  dealings  was  apparent  to 
those  of  his  brother-officers  who  came  in  contact  with  him  during 
the  time  that  he  remained  in  the  service.  Many  of  them,  becom- 
ing disgusted  with  his  general  character,  declined  at  length  to  as- 
sociate with  him,  and,  upon  this,  he  afterwards  raised  capital  and 
excited  sympathy  in  some  quarters  by  claiming  that  he  was  un- 
justly persecuted'  by  his  regiment,  or  that  he  was  disliked  because 
he  came  from  Virginia.  .  Both  statements  are  entirely  false  and 
without  foundation  in  fact.  He  received  every  consideration  from 
his  comrades  until  he  no  longer  deserved  anything  at  their  hands. 

In  making  the  statements  to  your  honorable  committee  the  un- 
dersigned have  confined  themselves  to  facts  which  have  become 
notorious,  but  they  have  been  informed  and  believe  that  he  was 
notorious  for  the  same  ungentlemanly  and  unofficer-like  conduct 
in  the  Second  U.  S.  Cavalry,  where  he  served  before  joining  the 
Tenth. 

The  officers  signing  this  paper  most  earnestly  represent  that 
they  have  not  been  influenced  by  any  vindictive  spirit  against  Mr. 
Armes,  or  by  any  political  reasons  whatever  in  pursuing  this 
course,  but  by  the  simple  conviction  that  he  is  an  unsuitable  per- 
son to  be  commissioned  as  an  officer  in  the  Army.  A  number  of 
them  ranked  him  or  were  superior  to  him  in  grade,  and  all  are  de- 
sirous that  these  facts  should  be  placed  before  you  to  forward  the 
best  interests  of  the  service. 

JOHN  B.  VAUDE  VIELE,  L.W.  CARPENTER  (Ret'd), 
Capt.  loth  Cav.  Capt.  loth  Cav. 

P.  LINBWELL  LEE,  J.  H.  WALSH, 
Capt.  loth  Cav.  Capt.  loth  Cav. 

S.  R.  COLLODAY,  GEO.  T.  ROLINSON, 
First  Lieut.  ioth  Cav.  Capt.  loth  Cav. 


JNO.  D.  MYRICK,  ALEX.  S.  S.  KEYES, 

First  Lieut.  loth  Cav.  First  Lieut.  loth  Cav. 

SILAS  PEPOON,  J.  M.  KELLEY, 

Second  Lieut.  loth  Cav.  First  Lieut.  loth  Cav. 

S.  L.  WOODWARD,  CHAS.  L.  COOPER, 

First  Lieut,  and  Adj.  loth  Cav.  First  Lieut.  loth  Cav. 

R.  H.  PRATT,  J.  WILL  MYERS, 

First  Lieut.  loth  Cav.  Second  Lieut.  loth  Cav. 

WM.  H.  BECK,  L.  P.  HUNT, 

First  Lieut.,  R.  Q.  M.,  loth  Cav.  Second  Lieut.  loth  Cav. 

THOS.  S.  J.  SPENCER,  WM.  R.  HARMON, 

First  Lieut.  loth  Cav.  Second  Lieut.  loth  Cav. 

S.  T.  NORVELL,  '   C.  R.  WARD, 

Capt.  loth  Cav.  Second  Lieut.  loth  Cav. 

THOS.  LITTLE,  J.  S.  MORRISON, 

Capt.  loth  Cav.  First  Lieut.  loth  Cav. 

(Endorsement.) 
Headquarters  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry, 

Fort  Sill,  Indian  Territory,  January  6,  1872. 
From  what  I  know  of  Mr.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  formerly  a  Captain 
in  my  regiment,  I  consider  him  incompetent  and  totally  unfit  to  be 
commissioned  in  the  Army. 

(Signed)         B.  H.  GRIERSON, 

Col.  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry. 

At  this  writing  only  six  of  the  officers  who  signed  the  above 
petition  are  now  in  active  service  in  the  Army,  and  if  they  were 
fully  investigated  I  believe  facts  as  to  their  character  would  be 
brought  out  showing  they  are  unfitted  to  hold  any  place  where 
a  gentleman  should  be  installed.  That  all  but  six  of  these  officers 
have  left  the  service  in  disgrace  is  comment  sufficient. 

During  the  month  of  February  the  State  sociables  were  in  full 
blast,  each  State  trying  to  outdo  the  other  in  their  grand  enter- 
tainments with  music  and  refreshments,  dancing  until  sunrise  in 
many  instances.  I  will  not  forget  the  Illinois  State  Sociable, 
which  gave  a  grand  masked  ball  on  February  14,  1872,  and  was 
attended  by  General  Grant  and  most  of  the  Cabinet. 

I  scarcely  missed  an  evening  during  the  social  season  from  at- 
tending receptions,  parties,  weddings,  balls,  etc.,  among  which  I 
may  mention  a  fine  reception  at  Dr.  Mackey's  house,  where  I  met 
the  Hon.  John  Bozman  Kerr,  his  wife  and  daughter,  Miss  Lucy 
Hamilton  Kerr.  The  latter  inspired  me  with  special  interest.  I 
had  a  very  pleasant  conversation  with  her,  and  she  gave  me  a  cor- 
dial invitation  to  call,  of  which  I  assured  her  I  would  avail  myself. 


352 

Among  the  friends  with  whom  I  made  social  calls  during  the 
months  of  February  and  March  were  General  Barry  of  Missis- 
sippi, who  finally  became  engaged  to  and  married  Miss  Kate 
Thyson ;  Dr.  Patterson ;  General  Ryan  of  Cuban  fame ;  Captain 
Collins,  General  Garrett,  General  Leach,  Colonel  McCarthy,  Wil- 
liam Dangerfield,  Colonel  Maish,  Mr.  Pulitzer  (now  of  the  World) 
and  many  others. 

In  1871  I  made  the  acquaintance  of  a  young  newspaper  man 
named  A.  H.  Dowell,  Jr.,  of  North  Carolina,  who  was  interested 
in  the  Washington  Transcript  with  Mr.  Grady,  and  we  worked 
together  in  political  matters  for  some  months,  and  after  receiv- 
ing the  following  letter  I  bought  out  his  interest  in  the  paper : 

Raleigh,  N.  C,  July  2,  1872. 
Col.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 

Washington,  D.  C. : 

My  Dear  Sir — I  am  so  situated  I  cannot  return  for  several  days, 
and  regret  it  exceedingly,  and  wish  you  would  favor  me  by  letting 
my  note,  due  on  the  3oth,  be  extended  thirty  days  further,  as  I 
have  had  to  meet  some  debts  here  and  am  troubled  financially.  I 
enclose  you  a  letter  from  my  friend,  Mr.  O.  D.  Barrett.  Please 
call  and  see  him,  and  write  me  the  results. 
Your  friend, 

(Signed)         A.  H.  DOWELL,  JR. 

31744  St.,  Washington,  D.  C,  July  12,  1872. 
A.  H.  Dowell,  Esq.: 

Dear  Friend — Ingersoll  showed  me  your  letter  relating  to  the 
Transcript.  Went  to  the  office  several  times  before  I  saw  Grady. 
He  wants  $5000  for  his  interest,  and  is  trying  to  convert  it  to  an 
evening  daily,  and  wants  a  stock  company,  with  a  capital  of 
$50,000.  The  paper,  as  it  is,  is  representing  $5000  of  the  $50,000, 
the  balance,  $45,000,  to  be  paid  up  to  the  extent  of  fifty  cents  on  the 
dollar.  With  a  few  thousand  dollars  you  can  control  the  whole 
thing,  taking  a  majority  of  the  stock.  A  big  thing  can  be  made 
out  of  it  if  Horace  Greeley  wins,  and  it  looks  that  way  now.  If  you 
can  command  money  you  had  better  come  on  and  post  me  in  full, 
and  I  can  work  this  into  your  hand. 

Yours  truly,  in  haste, 

(Signed)         O.  D.  BARRETT. 

I  got  control  of  the  Washington  Transcript  and  took  a  great 
interest  in  politics,  advocating  General  Hancock  for  President, 
and  attended  the  Baltimore  Convention  in  his  behalf,  but  soon 


353 

found  that  Horace  Greely  had  the  inside  track  there  and  that  it 
was  impossible  to  pull  General  Hancock  through.  I  felt  that  it 
was  a  great  mistake  to  nominate  Mr.  Greely,  and  believing  he 
could  not  be  elected,  I  supported  General  Grant,  writing  many 
letters  in  reply  to  correspondents,  of  which  the  following  will 
show  the  general  scope  of  my  views  at  that  time : 

Washington,  D.  C,  June  20,  1872. 
Dear  General: 

On  inspecting  the  enclosed  slips  (clipped  from  newspapers)  you 
will  see  that  you  hold  a  foremost  place  in  the  minds  of  some  of  the 
best  and  ablest  men  in  the  country,  who  would  like  to  see  you 
occupy  the  highest  position  in  the  gift  of  the  American  people.  I 
propose  to  take  an  active  part  in  the  Baltimore  Convention,  and 
if  you  will  consent  to  let  your  name  be  used  for  that  high  trust  I 
am  convinced  that  you  can  get  the  Democratic  nomination,  and, 
if  nominated,  would  make  a  clean  sweep  over  the  field.  Without 
the  Democratic  nomination  Mr.  Greeley  will  be  helpless  and  will 
withdraw,  leaving  the  race  between  yourself  and  General  Grant. 
Mr.  Greeley  giving  you  his  support,  gives  you  two  in  the  race, 
with  seven  chances  in  ten  that  you  are  the  next  President. 

I  shall  never  forget  the  many  kindnesses  you  have  shown  me, 
and  if  I  cannot  repay  you  in  one  way  I  will  in  another,  and  let  you 
see  that  I  am  a  true  friend  to  him  that  stands  by  me  in  my  troubles, 
and  I  assure  you  that  you  will  never  have  cause  to  regret  anything 
you  have  ever  done  for  me.  I  am  connected  with  friends  of  yours 
who  will  go  together  for  you  in  a  unit  for  our  next  President. 

Hoping  to  hear  from  you  soon,  and  that  you  will  allow  your 
name  to  be  used.  I  remain,  respectfully, 

JYour  obedient  servant  and  true  friend, 
GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Late  Captain,  U.  S.  A. 
To  MAJ.-GEN.  W.  S.  HANCOCK, 

St.  Paul,  Minn. 

My  Virginia  friends  were  under  the  impression  that  in  case  I 
could  not  secure  the  nomination  of  General  Hancock  I  would 
naturally  espouse  the  cause  of  Mr.  Greely,  and  the  Virginia  Sen- 
tinel, owned  and  edited  by  Col.  Mott  Delaney  Ball,  who  had  been 
Captain  of  my  company  before  tire  Rebellion,  and  who  had  been 
captured  at  the  slave-pen,  with  thirty-five  of  his  men,  in  1861  in 
Alexandria,  became  enraged  at  me,  and  made  a  fierce  attack  in 
his  issue  of  Friday  evening,  October  18,  1872,  coming  out  in 
large  heading  on  the  front  page,  "For  President,  Horace  Greely 
of  New  York." 

The  editorial  was  as  follows : 


354 

"A  GREAT  ACCESSION. — 'Colonel'  Geo.  A.  Armes,  having  kept 
out  of  the  newspapers  for  an  incredibly  long  time  (for  him) — in- 
deed, ever  since  the  Saratoga  tournament  that  he  got  up  last  sum- 
mer, with  the  aid  of  the  plow  horses,  etc. — has  at  last  found  a  sheet 
willing  to  do  itself  the  honor  of  reviving  him.  The  Huntington 
Man,  a  new  journal,  fired  with  emulation,  publishes  a  long  letter 
from  the  'Colonel/  setting  forth  what  he  knows  about  Grant's  be- 
ing the  greatest  man  that  ever  lived.  This  Colonel  Armes  (so- 
called)  is  a  fair  exemplification  of  the  causes  that  drive  some  men 
to  the  Grant  party.  He  was  at  the  Baltimore  Convention  a  strong 
Hancock  man,  and  busily  engaged  in  'lobbying'  for  that  ticket. 
His  advocacy  did  his  man  as  much  good  as  it  will  do  here.  After- 
wards he  became  interested  in  and  one  of  the  publishers  of  the 
Washington  Transcript,  about  as  red-hot  a  Greeley  journal  as  the 
canvass  has  seen.  Finding  the  paper  could  not  sustain  itself  by 
the  vigor  of  its  proprietary  brain,  or,  what  is  more  likely,  having 
purchased  his  interest  with  the  view  of  a  political  speculation,  he 
at  once  applied  to  Mr.  Greeley  for  a  'little  testimonial,'  in  order 
to  run  the  valuable  'machine'  in  his  favor.  Mr.  Greeley  did  not 
see  it  in  that  phase  of  illumination  in  which  it  appeared  to  the 
'Colonel/  and  declined.  Hence,  doubtless,  the  advocacy  of  Grant 
and  the  long  letter/' 

I  immediately  replied  editorially  in  my  paper,  and  the  reply 
was  copied  in  other  papers  throughout  the  South,  as  well  as  in 
Northern  papers,  reminding  Colonel  Ball  of  his  having  been 
caught  asleep  with  his  company  at  the  slave-pen,  which  shut  him 
up  from  any  further  attacks  upon  me.  I  said : 

"Recriminations  are  in  bad  taste,  yet  we  cannot  refrain  from 
commenting  upon  the  vituperative  leader  of  the  Virginia  Sentinel 
of  October  18,  1872,  wherein  its  accomplished  editor  is  pleased  to 
make  free  use  of  the  name  of  the  gentleman  mentioned,  detracting 
from  the  honorable  distinction,  ironically  accorded  by  it,  yet 
caused  and  merited,  as  can  be  substantiated  by  documentary  evi- 
dence, accusing  him  of  insincerity  and  of  pursuing  the  course  of 
action  he  followed  from  interested  motives.  It  will  take  a  more 
alert  Deader  than  that  referred  to  to  catch  Colonel  Armes  while 
sleeping  on  his  post  The  asperity  displayed,  intended,  no  doubt, 
to  show^the  Sentinel's  zeal  in  the  cause  which  it  has  espoused,  indi- 
cates a  jaundiced  condition,  doubtless  due  to  the  certain  impend- 
ing defeat  of  the  Greeley  party  in  the  ensuing  election.  General 
Hancock  has  been  a  warm  personal  friend  of  Colonel  Armes  dur- 
ing and  since  the  war.  Hence  it  was  natural  that  the  Colonel 
should  advocate  the  General's  cause.  It  is  hardly  to  be  presumed 
that  so  accomplished  and  astute  a  politician  as  the  editor  of  the 


355 

Virginia  Sentinel  can  appreciate  the  situation,  yet  we  can  see  the 
justness  of  the  acknowledged  diversion  of  the  Colonel  as  an  act, 
dictated  by  pure  friendship,  which,  when  found  to  be  available, 
was  cast  aside,  and  the  cause  of  General  Grant,  as  the  true  and 
patriotic  side  of  the  political  question,  has  since  received  his  un- 
divided support." 

I  have  always  felt  that  my  judgment  and  my  political  course  at 
that  time  was  fully  vindicated  by  results,  and  I  will  dismiss  the 
subject. 

My  business  matters,  social  functions  and  political  affairs  did 
not  prevent  me  from  still  looking  after  my  Army  matter,  and  the 
more  I  thought  over  the  trick  played  upon  me  by  the  War  De- 
partment, which  had  induced  me  to  withdraw  the  suit  against 
the  court-martial  at  Leavemvorth,  the  more  anxious  I  was  to  get 
my  case  further  investigated.  I  wrote  to  Col.  George  H.  English, 
my  attorney,  who  replied  on  April  4  that  "the  Statute  of  Limita- 
tions had  barred  any  further  action  in  your  case  against  General 
Sturgis  et  al.  for  false  imprisonment/' 

The  following  petitions  were  adready  before  the  appropriate 
committee  of  the  legislative  branches  of  the  Government : 

Washington,  D.  C,  February  16,  1872. 
Hon.  John  Coburn, 

Chairman  Committee,  etc.: 

Sir — We  have  the  honor  most  respectfully  to  present  to  you  the 
request  that  you  consider  favorably  the  H.  R.  bill  No.  705, 
authorizing  the  restoration  of  Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes  to  his  former 
rank  in  the  U.  S.  Army.  We  are  personally  acquainted  with  Cap- 
tain Armes  and  know  him  to  be  a  gentleman  above  reproach.  The 
charges  against  him  are  as  false  as  trivial  and  the  court-martial 
sentence  not  in  accord  with  right  and  justice,  in  behalf  of  which 
we  make  this  appeal. 

Your  petitioners  will  ever  pray. 

(Signed) 

Jos.  CASEY.  F.  E.  SPINNER. 

T.  W.  EARTLEY.  FRED  P.  STANTON. 

SAML.  B.  LAUFFER,  L.  Z.  TUTTLE. 

U.S.A.  GEO.  K.  WALBRTDGE, 

EDW.  P.  DOHERTY,  Late  U.  S.  A. 

Late  U.  S.  A.  ALLAN  RUTHERFORD. 

A.  C.  WTDDECOMBE,  B.  F.  GRAFTON, 

Late  U.  S.  A.  Late  U.  S.  A. 

JAS.  T.  LEARY,  D.  K.  CARTER, 

Late  U.  S.  A.  Chief  Justice  Supreme  Court  D.  C. 


356 

JNO.  K.  SULLIVAN,  W.  HELMICK. 

Late  U.  S.  A.  J.  W.  WRIGHT. 

CHAS.  E.  MALLAN,  S.  W.  JOHNSTON. 

MARK  BROADHEAD,  A.  W.  D.  WYLIE, 
WM.  HERRING,  Late  U.  S.  A. 

Late  U.  S.  A.  GENERAL  BURNSIDE. 

CHAS.  F.  RAND,  J.  B.  DONNELLY, 

Late  U.  S.  A.  Late  U.  S.  A.  and  M.  C. 

I  am  satisfied  that  Major  Armes  should  not  have  been  dis- 
missed from  the  service.  I  have  known  him  for  some  years,  and 
am  free  to  state  that  respect  for  great  personal  bravery  and  good 
service  demand  that  he  be  restored. 

(Signed)         CHAS.  EWING, 

Late  of  the  Army. 

I  have  known  Major  Armes  for  some  time  and  I  concur  in  the 
request  for  this  restoration. 

(Signed)        T.  T.  CRITTENDEN, 

Late  of  the  Army. 

I  have  known  Major  Armes  since  early  in  year  of  1861.  I  knew 
him  to  be  a  moral  young  man  and  at  various  times  heard  him 
complimented  by  President  Lincoln  for  gallant  services.  He, 
being  very  young  during  the  war,  was  looked  upon  by  Mr.  L.  as 
a  marvel  for  daring  courage.  I  earnestly  join  in  the  request  for 
his  restoration  to  his  rank  in  the  Army. 

Respectfully, 

WARD  H.  LAMON. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  June  14,  1872. 

I  have  known  Major  Armes  since  1864,  and  while  I  am  not 
familiar  with  his  case,  I  can  state  that  I  knew  of  no  acts  on  his 
part  to  change  the  confidence  I  have  always  felt  in  him.  Justice 
should  be  given  him. 

M.    I.    LUDDINGTON. 

To  the  President  of  the  United  States: 
Present: 

Pardon  me  while  I  submit  the  following  to  your  consideration 
and  ask  your  interference  in  my  behalf: 

Let  me  premise  that  I  am  the  Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  late  of 
Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry. 

Your  Excellency  will  recollect  I  was  court-martialed  and  sen- 
tenced to  be  dismissed  the  service,  but,  you  believing  the  whole 
matter  did  me  an  injustice,  nominated  me  to  the  Senate  for  reap- 
pointment;  but,  Congress  adjourning  without  acting  on  appoint- 


357 

ment,  it  availed  me  nothing.  Since  that  time  I  have  submitted  my 
case  to  Congress  for  their  action,  and  in  consequence  of  their  early 
adjournment  it  will  not  be  acted  upon  this  session.  I  am  therefore 
thrown  back  upon  my  own  resources. 

As  I  am  innocent  of  the  charges  upon  which  I  was  dismissed,  I 
feel  it  due  to  my  honor  and  past  services  to  vindicate  myself,  and 
I  feel  confident  of  the  sympathy  of  your  Excellency  and  all  honest- 
thinking  people.  And  as  I  am  compelled  to  stay  here  during  the 
summer  and  the  setting  of  the  Congress  next  fall  and  winter  in 
order  to  accomplish  my  purpose  (unless  your  Excellency  will  re- 
nominate  me  to  the  Senate  to  my  former  rank),  I  would  like  to  be 
earning  my  living. 

I  therefore  respectfully  ask  that  you  give  me  some  civil  appoint- 
ment in  and  about  this  city  as  special  agent,  or  something  same  as 
Major  Belger  had  while  he  was  vindicating  his  character. 

I  ask  this  of  your  Excellency  that  I  may  be  enabled  to  vindicate 
myself.  I  am,  your  obedient  servant, 

GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Late  Captain,  U.  S.  A. 

I  concur  in  recommending  Mr.  Armes  for  some  position,  with- 
out expressing  any  opinion  as  to  the  judgment  of  the  court-martial. 

JOHN  A.  LOGAN, 

U.  S.  S. 
JOSHUA  HILL, 

U.  S.  S. 

I  cordially  concur  in  the  opinions  and  recommendations  of  the 
appointment  of  Captain  Armes  to  office. 

CHRIS.  C.  Cox, 

Board  of  Health. 

I  carefully  examined  all  the  papers  and  evidence  in  Captain 
Armes'  case,  and  I  was  fully  satisfied  he  was  wrongfully  convicted 
and  dismissed. 

LUKE  A.  POLAND, 
M.  C. 

I  have  not  examined  the  case  of  Captain  Armes,  and  therefore 
I  do  not  know  anything  about  it;  but  sign  this  paper  upon  the 
testimony  of  Mr.  Poland. 

JjoHN  F.  LEWIS, 
*  U.  S.  S. 

I  sympathize  with  the  Captain,  and  hope  he  may  be  protected. 

J.  W.  FLANNAGAN, 
U.  S.  S. 


358 

I  endorse  this  application,  satisfied  that  Judge  Poland  is  con- 
vinced of  the  wrong  done  Captain  Armes. 

FREEMAN  CLARKE, 

M.  C. 

I  have  reason  to  believe  that  Major  Armes  has  been  hardly  dealt 
with,  and  join  in  recommending  him  to  some  position. 
H.  WILSON,  ALEX.  RAMSEY, 

u.  s.  s.  u.  s.  s. 

JAMES  W.  NYE,  N.  P.  BANKS, 

U.  S.  S.  M.  C. 

S.  C.  POMEROY,  F.  E.  SPINNER, 

U.  S.  S.  Treas.  U.  S.  A. 

F.  A.  SAWYER,  L.  Z.  TUTTLE, 

U.  S.  S.  Asst.  Treas.  U.  S.  A. 

W.  T.  JONES, 

M.  C. 

If  you  will  comply  with  Captain  Armes'  request  I  will  consider 
it  a  personal  favor. 

POWELL  CLAYTON,         WM.  HELMICK, 

U.  S.  S.  Judge. 

J.  H.  SYPHER,  JNO.  C.  UNDERWOOD, 

M.  C.  Judge. 

I  concur  in  the  recommendation  of  Senator  Wilson  and  others, 
and  hope  Major  Armes  may  be  given  some  appointment. 

JAS.  H.  PLATT,  JR., 
M.  C. 
FRANK  MORREY, 

M.  C. 

Being  satisfied  nothing  could  be  done  with  the  Secretary  of 
War  or  the  President,  I  took  my  summer  vacation,  meeting  many 
relatives  and  friends,  which  proved  beneficial  to  my  health  and 
financially,  as  I  carried  through  several  large  transactions,  and 
upon  my  return  to  Washington  consulted  my  attorneys,  introduc- 
ing a  bill  for  my  restoration,  which  was  referred  to  the  Military 
Committee  of  the  House  for  investigation  and  report.  I  con- 
tinued to  receive  a  great  many  letters  enclosing  descriptions  of 
property  to  be  placed  in  my  hands  for,  sale,  and  among  my  cus- 
tomers was  Moses  Kelly,  a  large  real-estate  owner  and  banker, 
with  whom  I  had  made  a  great  many  large  transactions  of  finan- 
cial benefit  to  both  of  us. 


359 

Saratoga  Springs,  N.  Y.,  July  29,  1872. 

After  breakfast,  between  1 1  and  12  o'clock,  Commodore  Van- 
derbilt,  Gov.  John  T.  Hoffman,  Hon.  Smith  Ely,  Mayor  of  New 
York;  Gen.  G.  S.  Batcheller  of  Saratoga,  N.  Y.,  and  Gen.  H.  H. 


COMMODORE  VANDERBILT. 


Wells,  ex-Governor  of  Virginia,  and  Governor  T.  G.  Alvord  of 
Syracuse  were  all  sitting  on  the  veranda  discussing  horseman- 
ship, when  Governor  Hoffman  remarked  that  the  Northern  men 


360 

made  better  cavalrymen  than  the  Southerners.  I  took  excep- 
tions to  this  at  once,  and  after  a  short  discussion,  in  which  all 
seemed  to  take  great  interest,  I  suggested  that  he  invite  fifty 
young  men  from  New  York  or  any  other  Northern  State  he 
wished,  and  I  would  invite  fifty  young  men  from  Virginia,  Mary- 
land and  the  District  of  Columbia  and  have  a  tournament,  and 
pledged  myself  to  crown  the  Queen  of  Love  and  Beauty  and  more 
maids  of  honor  with  my  fifty  young  men  than  he  with  his  fifty, 
or  I  would  pay  all  expenses.  Commodore  Vanderbilt  jumped  up 
from  his  chair  at  this  challenge,  offering  to  furnish  passes  for  all 
the  knights  to  and  from  Saratoga.  The  proposition  was  imme- 
diately taken  up,  and  we  organized  the  following-named  tem- 
porary committees : 

COMMITTEE    ON    ORGANIZATION. 

1.  Gen.  G.  S.  Batcheller,  Saratoga,  N.  Y. 

2.  Dr.  W.  J.  Lewis,  New  Orleans,  La. 

3.  Col.  Francis  Copcutt,  New  York. 

4.  Col.  D.  F.  Ritchie,  Saratoga. 

5.  Capt.  D.  F.  Judson,  Saratoga. 

6.  Col.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  Washington,  D.  C. 

COMMITTEE    ON    DECORATION. 

1.  Mitchell  Bros.,  Saratoga. 

2.  Col.  C.  J.  Van  Horn,  Philadelphia. 

3.  Messrs.  Bennett  &  McCaffrey,  Saratoga. 

4.  Mr.  E.  Reynolds,  Connecticut. 

THE  TOURNAMENT. 

"Grand  Field  Day  at  Glen  Mitchell — Large  Attendance — Lots  of 
Sport — Saratoga,  Her  Beauty  and  Her  Chivalry — A 

High  Old  Time. 

"The  elements  conspired  against  'the  chivalry'  of  New  York, 
Canada,  Virginia,  Maryland  and  Washington,  but  they  conspired 
in  vain.  Sir  George  Armes  said  there  should  be  no  postponement 
on  account  of  a  little  rain,  and  all  the  knights  said,  'So  mote  it  be,' 
and  so  it  was.  At  4  o'clock  the  knights  assembled  at  the  Grand 
Central  Hotel,  armed  to  the  teeth  and  in  full  armor  clad.  Their 
gallant  steeds,  borrowed  mostly  from  Saratoga  agriculturists, 
pranced  and  neighed  until  the  young  ladies  on  the  piazzas  of  the 


362 

hotels  went  wild  with  excitement.  Carriages  were  ordered  out 
immediately,  and  forthwith  Broadway  was  lined  with  equipages 
en  route  to  the  Glen.  On  account  of  the  lateness  of  the  hour,  the 
cavalcade  was  postponed,  the  knights,  with  Marshal  Armes  and 
his  aides,  galloping  briskly  to  Glen  Mitchell,  where  Hon.  James 
W.  Huested,  the  orator  of  the  day,  in  a  few  appropriate  sentences, 
spoken  from  the  judge's  stand,  welcomed  the  Knights  of  the  South 
to  a  friendly  trial  of  skill  with  the  Knights  of  the  North. 

"The  honors  were  as  follows: 

"R.  C.  Gwynn,  Knight  of  Washington  City,  9;  E.  M.  Jackson, 
Knight  of  Fairfax,  8;  T.  E.  Allen,  Knight  of  Ontario,  Canada,  9; 
R.  Wallace,  Knight  of  Marlborough,  7;  J.  F.  McGregor,  Knight 
of  'My  Maryland,'  7;  E.  P.  Gwynn,  Knight  of  Baltimore,  6;  W.  H. 
Johnson,  Knight  of  Troy,  9. 

"The  column  of  figures  indicates  the  number  of  rings  taken  by 
each  knight  three  tilts.  It  is  but  justice  to  state  that  some  of  the 
best  riders  were  unfortunately  afflicted  with  most  awkward 
equines.  And  yet  the  general  effect  was  quite  inspiriting.  The 
attendance  of  distinguished  people  was  very  large.  The  grounds 
were  thronged  with  splendid  turnouts.  Among  the  carriages  was 
that  of  Commodore  Vanderbilt,  occupied  by  the  Commodore  and 
his  wife,  and  we  noticed  on  the  judge's  stand  Mr.  Frank  Leslie, 
Hon.  James  W.  Husted,  'Eli  Perkins,'  E.  O.  Perrin  and  others, 
and  large  numbers  of  the  elite  occupied  the  elegant  equipages  and 
the  grand  stand.  Considering  the  untoward  circumstances  and 
the  powerful  (?)  opposition  of  some  jealous  churls  in  Saratoga,  it 
was  a  very  notable  success,  and  we  think  that  next  year  the  Sara- 
toga tournament  will  be  still  more  of  an  event.  It  is  due  Col.  Geo. 
A.  Armes,  who  started  the  enterprise,  to  say  that  he  labored  man- 
fully, but  almost  single-handed,  in  getting  it  up. 

"The  assemblage  in  the  evening  was  one  of  the  finest  that  Sara- 
toga has  seen  this  season.  The  attendance  was  large  and  brilliant, 
and  the  ceremony  of  crowning  the  Queen  of  Love  and  Beauty  and 
her  maids  of  honor  was  a  fine  spectacle.  Each  knight  was  intro- 
duced in  turn  by  Mr.  E.  O.  Perrin,  who  pronounced  the  title,  in 
the  order  given  above,  the  first  crowning  the  Queen,  and  so  on 
through  the  list.  The  chosen  Queen  of  Love  and  Beauty  was  Miss 
Lillie  Washington  of  Washington,  who  is,  we  believe,  one  of  the 
nearest  descendants  living  of  the  family  of  Gen.  George  Washing- 
ton. Miss  Washington  was  elegantly  dressed  in  light-blue  silk, 
court  train,  white  Swiss  overdress  trimmed  with  the  same,  hair  in 
chatelaine  braids  and  curls.  The  maids  of  honor  were  Miss  Jennie 
Miller  of  Brooklyn,  Mrs.  E.  P.  Smith  of  Saratoga,  Miss  Annie 
Morgan  of  New  York,  Mrs.  E.  J.  Lewis  of  New  Orleans,  Miss 
Mary  Donnington  of  New  York,  Mrs.  Hicks  (Sophie  Sparkle)  of 
New  York. 


"After  the  coronation  Mr.  E.  O.  Perrin  delivered  the  address, 
paying  a  high  compliment  to  the  Queen,  her  ladies  and  their  chiv- 
alric  knights.  It  was  a  very  handsome  effort,  and  was  received 
with  much  enthusiasm.  The  address  was  followed  by  a  grand 
promenade." 

The  whole  press  gave  for  several  days  all  kinds  of  accounts  of 
the  tournament,  as  it  was  such  a  novelty  to  Saratoga.  The  duel 
also  added  considerably  to  the  excitement  of  the  visitors  and  resi-* 
dents.  Being  in  the  heart  of  the  season,  Saratoga  was  crowded, 
and  the  news  of  the  duel  went  like  wildfire  and  was  the  general 
topic  of  conversation.  The  circumstances  were  these :  Mr. 
Gwynn,  one  of  the  finest-looking  and  most  gallant  knights  at  the 
ball,  danced  oftener  with  Miss  M —  -  of  New  York  than  Mr. 
Frank  Lord  approved  of,  and  he  became  very  jealous,  caution- 
ing her  not  to  be  seen  with  that  "young  Virginia  guerrilla"  any 
more.  Instead  of  Miss  M —  -  objecting,  she  immediately  told 
Mr.  Gwynn  that  Mr.  Lord  had  accused  him  of  being  a  guerrilla 
and  did  everything  he  could  to  prevent  her  further  acquaintance 
with  him.  Mr.  Gwynn  immediately  reported  the  fact  to  me,  when 
I  told  him  I  would  assume  the  responsibility,  and  for  him  to  go 
ahead  and  pay  no  attention  to  Mr.  Lord's  remarks.  I  imme- 
diately called  upon  Mr.  Lord,  demanding  an  apology  and  ex- 
planation to  Mr.  Gwynn  in  the  presence  of  Miss  M—  — .  Mr. 
Lord  declined  to  apologize.  I  therefore  called  on  my  friend,  Gen- 
eral Thomas,  who  took  a  note  to  Mr.  Lord,  and  it  was  arranged 
for  us  to  meet  at  sunrise  next  morning  near  Glen  Mitchell  and 
settle  the  affair  in  a  gentlemanly  way.  General  Thomas  acted  as 
my  second,  and  I  at  once  fixed  up  my  affairs  and  packed  my  trunk, 
not  expecting  to  return  alive,  as  it  was  reported  that  Mr.  Lord 
was  one  of  the  best  shots  at  Saratoga ;  that  he  had  been  a  sports- 
man at  Saratoga,  and  took  delight  in  displaying  his  skill  by  shoot- 
ing a  ten-cent  piece  with  a  bullet,  every  shot  hitting  the  mark  at 
ten  paces.  I  had  had  a  little  practice  myself,  and  was  in  the  habit 
of  snuffing  a  candle  by  firing  at  the  blaze  at  a  distance  of  fifteen 
to  twenty  feet,  never  touching  the  candle,  but  in  most  every  in- 
stance putting  out  the  blaze,  and  considered  myself  a  pretty  good 
shot.  Under  the  circumstances  I  did  not  hesitate  to  meet  Mr. 
Lord  according  to  agreement,  but  after  waiting  on  the  ground 
for  over  one  hour,  to  my  great  delight  Mr.  Lord  and  his  second 
failed  to  show  up.  Then  I  returned  to  the  hotel  to  inquire  of  their 


^    Awaiting  My  Antagonist. 

whereabouts.  I  was  informed  that  Mr.  Lord  had  been  suddenly 
called  to  New  York,  and  had  left  on  the  midnight  train  to  attend 
to  urgent  business  requiring  his  personal  attention,  taking  with 
him  his  horses  and  carriages  and  servants.  The  duel,  therefore, 
did  not  take  place,  but  I  was  blamed  by  many  and  called  the  fiery 
young  Colonel  from  the  impetuous  South  who  had  challenged  to 
mortal  combat  an  inoffensive  citizen  of  the  frigid  North. 

After  all  the  fun  was  over  I  furnished  carriages  for  the  boys  to 
go  sightseeing  and  enjoy  themselves,  and  entertained  them  to  the 
best  of  my  ability,  and,  although  it  was  understood  and  agreed 
by  Commodore  Vanderbilt,  Governor  Hoffman  and  others  that 
all  expenses  should  be  paid  by  them  if  their  side  lost,  my  part 
came  to  $2240,  and  their  expenses  ran  up  into  the  thousands. 
None  of  us,  however,  regretted  the  expense,  as  it  gave  general 
satisfaction  to  us  all,  and  the  fact  that  my  Southern  boys  crowned 
the  Queen  of  Love  and  Beauty  and  four  maids  of  honor  out  of 
the  seven  made  me  feel  amply  repaid  for  all  my  expenditure  and 
troubles. 


365 


Virginia  and  Maryland  v.  New  York. 

VhiefMitrtltatt, 
Col.  GEO.  A.  ARMES. 


dirts: 

Hon.  A.  J.  ROGERS,  .New  York. 
FRANK  LORD,  Now  York. 


HARRY  WRIGHT,  Washington. 
IKE  f'OOX,"  Now  York. 


fits'  I  Ma  ft  A  tt  Ms: 
Col.  D.  F.  RITCHIE.  Saratoga.  Dr.  W   J    LEWIS,  New  Orleans. 

c4ids:  sfitts: 

Capt,  W.  W.  FRENCH,  JAS.  S.  MORSE,  Baltimore. 

Dr.  J.  C.  McEWEN.  WM.  W  REARDON.    do 

Judges: 

JOHN  P.  CONKL1XG,  Maj.  I.  A,  ROSEKRANS, 

R.  H.  SOUTHGATE,  Ca])f.  G.  C.  BYRNBt 

CLARENCE  KILMER,  Capt.  B.  F.  JUDSON, 

MILO  J.  JENNINGS,  Col.  W    R.  JOHNSON, 

ISAAC  SHERWOOD,  Mr.  M.  E.  DfiRIVAS. 


Oivrtort  of  the  fttt^  /w?  Gt**i  MitcheUi 

Hon.  JAMES  W.  HUSTED,  Peekskill,  Westchester  Co. 
-  Hon.  SMITH  ELY,  Jr.,  of  New  York. 

Evening  —  foeni  ; 
ELI  PERKINS,  of  New  York, 

In  tlio  Grand  Union  Hotel  Ball  Room. 


K.MfiHTs'  names  will  be  given  on  a  separate  Programme  at  ronnneilCOihent  of 


366 


SELECT 


_ALL» 

AT  THE 

GRAND  UNION  MOTEL, 

SARATOGA, 

.  14, 


are  respectfully  invited  to  witness  the  Crowning  of  thc(Queen  of  Love 
and  Beauty,  and  her  six  Maids  of  Honor,  also  to  participate  in  the 
evening  exercises. 


Compliments  of 


Committee  of  yirrangements: 

Gen.  G.  S.  Batcheller.  -  Saratoga,  lion.  I.  V.  Baker,  Washington  ('a  , 
Col.  G.  A.  Armcs,  Washington,  U.O.  Hon.  Win.  Johnson.  -  Seneca  Co., 
Hon.  C.  H.  Adams,  -  -  -  Cohocs,  Dr.  \V.  J.  Lewis,  -  New  Orleans, 

Floor  Jfanctf/evt; 

M.  Landon,    -    -    -    -    New  York,    Hon.  Smith  Kly,      -    -    New  York, 

Capt.  W.  P.  Jarvis,     -    -      Boston,    Hon.  G.  II.  Mitchell,  -    -Saratoga, 

W.  M.  Smith,     -    -    -    New  York,    Geo  E  McOmbcr     -    -    Saratoga, 

Prof.  MANUEL,  Master  of  Ceremonies. 


Committee  on  Invitation? 

Com  Vanderhilt,    -    -    New  York,  Hon.  I.  V.  Baker,  Jr.,  -  Wash.  Co., 

Hon.  J.  T.  Hoffman,  -    New  York,'  Hon.  Win.  Johnson,   -    Seneca  Co., 

Hon. Fernando  Wood,  -New  York,  Hon.  Smith  Ely,      -    -    New  York, 

Hon.  A.  McDonald,      -    Arkansas,  lion.  Jarvis  Lord,  -    -    New  York, 

J.  II.  Breslin,  Esq.,  -    -    Saratoga,  Hon.  H.  V.  Twombly,    New  York, 

Gen.  H.  H.  Wells,     -    -    -    -    Va.,  "Ike  Coon,"-    -    - 

Hon.  H.  B.  Anthony,  U.  S.  S.,  Del.,  Capt.  W.  P.  Jarvis, 

Hon.  A.  W.  Palmer,    -    New. York,  Col.  W.  G.  Grant,  - 

Hon.  S.  Ainsworth,  -    -    Saratoga,"  Mr.  I.  Sherwood,    - 

Gov.  T.  G.  Alvord,    -    -    Syracuse,  Hon.  A.  J.  Rogers, 

Col.  Francis  Copcutt,  -  New  York,  Mr.  DeRivas, '    -    - 

Eli  Perkins,    ....    New  York,  Hon.  J  C  Jacobs, 

H.  S.  Powers,     -    -    -    New  York,  Hon  D   P.  Wood,  - 

A.  II  Grachall,   -    -    -    New  York.  A.  X   Parker,-    -    - 

Hon  J  H.Graham,    -    New  York,  Hon  James  Wood, 

Hon.  Wm  S  Dickinson,  New  York,  J- M  «andley,      - 

Judge  I.  S  Spencer,    -      Syracuse,  "Sophie  Spark! 

Mrs.  Pitman,    -    -    -    -    Newport,  Miss  Grundy, 

The  ahove-named  gentlemen  have  signed  their  names,  or  authorized 
IIIQ  to  use  them  in  connection  with  the  Tournament,  and  they  are 
assigned  as  the  Committee  on  Invitation. 


New  York, 
-  Boston, 
New  York, 
New  Yo'k, 
New  York, 
New  York, 
Brooklyn, 
Syracuse, 
Potsdam, 
Genessee. 
-  New  Ytu-k, 
•,  Evening  Mail, 
-  -  N.  Y.  World. 


Geo.  A.  ARMES,  Chief  Marshall. 


Music  by  MollenhaueVs  Orchestra. 


367 

The  invitations  were  gotten  up  so  as  to  have  only  those  present 
who  were  invited  by  name,  which  made  it  a  very  select  affair,  and 
the  guests  were  composed  of  the  best  people  of  New  York  and 
the  other  States  of  the  Union. 

It  happened  that  Miss  Morgan  of  New  York,  who  had  pre- 
sented me  with  a  beautiful  silk  sash,  drove  up  by  the  side  of  my 
horse  while  I  was  at  the  head  of  my  procession  and  handed  me 
her  yellow  silk  umbrella  as  it  commenced  to  rain,  remarking, 
"Do  not  let  your  silk  sash  be  spoiled,"  and  upon  the  spur  of  the 
moment  I  raised  the  umbrella,  and  the  papers  had  to  comment 
upon  my  action.  But  such  a  grand  affair  has  never  been  at  Sara- 
toga before  or  since,  and  everyone  was  pleased  and  gratified, 
and  will  long  remember  the  victory  of  the  Southern  boys.  I  re- 
mained in  Saratoga  ten  or  fifteen  days,  attending  the  hops  at  the 
different  hotels,  which  occurred  almost  every  evening,  meeting 
many  of  the  most  fashionable  and  most  finely  dressed  ladies  of 
the  country  on  those  occasions.  Among  them  were  Mrs.  Mor- 
rissey,  who  expressed  much  gratitude  to  me  for  allowing  her  son 
to  ride  at  the  tournament,  and  I  had  the  pleasure  of  dancing  two 
sets  with  her  at  the  Grand  Union.  She  was  gorgeously  dressed, 
her  diamonds  alone  costing  more  than  $100,000. 

On  my  return  to  Washington  I  stopped  over  at  Albany,  N.  Y., 
one  day,  meeting  many  of  my  old  friends,  among  them  General 
Farnsworth. 

After  my  return  to  Washington  I  made  several  large  transac- 
tions in  real  estate,  and  as  soon  as  Congress  met  called  on  Gen- 
eral Morey  of  Louisiana,  who  had  charge  of  my  military  case,  and 
was  giving  it  every  attention.  General  Barry  of  Mississippi 
proved  to  be  a  strong  friend  to  me  and  appreciated  my  introduc- 
ing him  to  Miss  Katie  Tyson,  to  whom  he  became  engaged.  At 
the  close  of  the  year  I  wrote : 

"I  have  had  a  very  eventful  and  pleasant  year,  and  not  allowed 
my  troubles  to  worry  me  in  the  least.  I  have  had  enough  to  en- 
courage me  greatly,  financially  and  socially,  having  cleared  over 
$8000  in  business,  besides  my  losses  in  loaning  money,  specula- 
tions and  expenses.  Many  invitations  were  extended  me  for  State 
sociables,  which  were  given  by  almost  every  State  upon  different 
occasions  during  the  year.  The  victory  I  won  at  Saratoga  and 
the  intended  duel  made  me  quite  a  repute  upon  these  occasions." 


CHAPTER  XI. 

January  I,  1873. 

Dr.  Turpin,  General  Barry  and  General  Ryan  accepted  my  in- 
vitation to  go  New  Year's  calling  with  me  this  morning.  My 
diary  for  the  day  included  the  following : 

"We  were  highly  entertained  and  welcomed  by  all,  and  my 
friends  at  their  parting  assured  me  they  appreciated  the  enter- 
tainment as  one  of  the  best  they  had  ever  had,  and  at  12  we 
parted  to  meet  again  soon."  Little  did  I  then  dream  of  the  tragic 
death  awaiting  General  Ryan. 

As  soon  as  Congress  met  I  appeared  before  the  committee,  and 
soon  discovered  that  it  was  impossible  to  have  my  bill  passed  re- 
storing me  to  my  full  rank  as  a  Captain  in  the  active  service.  I 
therefore  entered  into  a  compromise  with  the  committee  to  accept 
an  honorable  discharge  with  one  year's  pay.  The  committee  said 
there  would  be  very  little  trouble  in  passing  the  bill  in  that  shape, 
and  after  that  I  would  be  in  a  better  position  to  get  what  I  was 
entitled  to.  The  chairman  of  the  committee  further  explained 
that  there  was  such  opposition  at  the  War  Department  against 
my  restoration  that  it  would  be  a  difficult  matter  to  have  a  bill 
passed.  Under  the  circumstances  I  thought  it  best  to  accept  the 
proposition.  General  Morey,  with  his  sub-committee,  having 
thoroughly  investigated  my  case,  made  the  following : 

House  of  Representatives,  Forty-second  Congress,  Third  Session. 

Report  No.  19. 


GEORGE  A.  ARMES. 


January  10,  1873. — Ordered  to  be  Printed. 


Mr.  Morey,  from  the  Committee  on  Military  Affairs,  made  the 
following  report  (to  accompany  Bill  H.  R.  3372) : 

It  appears  from  the  record  of  the  court-martial  which  dismissed 
Captain  Armes  that  a  considerable  portion  of  the  important  testi- 
mony which  was  relied  on  was  given  by  Capt.  Charles  G.  'Cox, 
Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry,  who  was,  within  two  months  thereafter,  him- 
self dismissed  the  service,  cashiered,  and  sentenced  to  be  fined  and 
confined  in  a  penitentiary.  His  evidence  was  contradicted  point- 


369 

blank  by  another  witness,  and  a  portion  of  his  evidence  is  conclu- 
sively shown  to  have  been  false.  But  there  is  nothing  in  the  rec- 
ord, so  far  as  can  be  judged  from  a  careful  examination  thereof, 
that,  according  to  military  usage,  justifies  the  sentence  that  was 
imposed.  *  *  * 

The  bill  then  went  to  the  House,  and,  after  discussion,  passed 
without  a  dissenting  vote. 

It  had  been  subjected  to  the  most  thorough  investigations  of 
any  case,  perhaps,  ever  before  Congress.  It  then  went  to  the 
Senate  and  was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  Military  Affairs. 
No  sooner  did  Belknap  become  apprised  of  this  than  he,  without 
being  called  upon  for  advice  or  suggestion,  transmitted  an  offi- 
cial letter,  which  General  Logan,  the  chairman,  afterwards 
handed  to  me,  as  follows : 

War  Department, 

Washington  City,  January  n,  1873. 
Hon.  John  A.  Logan, 

Chairman  Military  Committee, 

United  States  Senate: 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  direct  your  attention  to  the  bill,  H.  R. 
3372,  which  passed  the  House  of  Representatives  yesterday  and 
was  submitted  to  the  Senate,  which  in  its  direct  terms  directs  the 
Secretary  of  War  to  give  to  Geo.  A.  Armes,  late  Captain  Tenth  U. 
S.  Cavalry  and  Brevet  Major,  U.  S.  A.,  an  honorable  discharge 
from  the  service  of  the  United  States,  to  date  June  7,  1870,  and 
provides  that  said  Armes  shall  be  paid  the  same  pay  and  allowances 
as  if  he  had  been  discharged  under  the  provisions  of  the  third  sec- 
tion of  an  act  making  appropriations  for  the  support  of  the  Army 
for  the  year  ending  June  30,  1871.  I  must  officially  protest  against 
the  passage  of  this  bill,  and  would  request  that  you  call  at  this  De- 
partment and  examine  the  record  in  Mr.  Armes'  case,  or,  if  that  is 
not  convenient,  it  can  be  sent  to  you  upon  a  request  to  that  effect. 
T  am  satisfied  that  upon  a  full  examination  of  this  record  you  will 
deem  it  the  duty  of  the  Committee  on  Military  Affairs  of  the  Senate 
to  report  adversely  upon  this  resolution. 
Verv  respectfully, 


Secretary  of  War. 

24 


37° 

This  appeared  to  have  very  little  effect  in  the  end,  as  the  bill 
was  referred  to  Senator  Clayton,  now  Minister  to  Mexico,  who, 
after  thorough  investigation,  made  a  favorable  report,  which  was 
unanimously  agreed  to  by  the  committee.  In  the  meantime  I 
obtained  the  following  letter  from  General  Coburn,  chairman  of 
the  House  Military  Committee,  who  had  so  thoroughly  inves- 
tigated my  case  and  passed  it  favorably,  to  Hon.  O.  P.  Morton, 
the  Senator  from  his  State,  in  order  to  secure  his  assistance : 

Washington,  D.  C,  January  25,  1873. 
Hon.  O.  P.  Morton: 

Dear  Sir — I  am  requested  to  call  your  attention  to  the  case  of 
Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  who  was  unjustly  dismissed  from  the  service, 
in  my  opinion. 

The  case  was  passed  upon  in  the  House,  and  met  the  approval 
of  the  Committee  on  Military  Affairs  and  the  House. 

I  think  it  has  merits,  and  if  you  can  find  time  I  wish  you  would 
look  at  it. 

Yours  truly, 

(Signed)         JOHN  COBURN. 

I  found  it  necessary  to  secure  letters  of  introduction  to  several 
other  Senators  that  they  might  become  interested  in  the  matter 
and  offset  the  powerful  influence  of  the  War  Department.  Con- 
sidering the  reports,  wrhich  explain  themselves,  and  letters  from  a 
number  of  friends  and  acquaintances,  many  of  whom  had  known 
me  from  boyhood,  makes  it  unnecessary  to  go  further  into  detail. 

I  continued  my  real-estate  business  during  the  year  of  1873. 
becoming  interested  with  Gov.  A.  R.  Shepherd,  Moses  Kelly, 
John  O.  Evans  and  many  of  the  largest  capitalists  in  this  city  and 
throughout  the  country. 

The  following  details  which  explain  my  success  should  be 
given,  as  a  great  many  people  were  surprised  and  often  won- 
dered how  I  could  keep  so  many  fine  horses,  entertain,  visit  the 
watering-places,  when  it  was  generally  known  that  I  had  not  a 
dollar  when  I  landed  in  Washington  after  my  dismissal  from  the 
service,  and  in  order  that  the  reader  may  see  that  I  was  straight- 
forward in  my  transactions,  examples  of  my  deals  are  given  here- 
with : 

Being  successful  naturally  induced  many  large  owners  of  prop- 
erty to  place  their  affairs  in  my  hands.  Among  these  was  Mr. 


Paulus  Thyson,  one  of  the  wealthiest  gentlemen  of  the  District 
of  Columbia,  who  desired  to  dispose  of  square  444  on  Seventh 
street,  and  authorized  me  to  sell  it  for  $35,000  as  a  whole.  I  fig- 
ured the  number  of  feet  and  priced  it  at  fifty  cents  per  foot,  which 
amounted  to  $74,662.50.  Returning  to  him,  I  suggested  that  in- 
stead of  paying  me  the  regular  commission  he  give  me  authority 
to  put  my  own  price  on  it,  and  that  he  give  me  all  over  $50,000, 
when  he  seemed  thunderstruck  and  stated  that  a  number  of  brok- 
ers had  been  offering  it  for  $35,000  and  could  not  get  a  buyer. 
He  seemed  to  think  it  would  be  impossible  for  me  to  sell  it  for  any 
such  enormous  price.  After  a  short  argument,  he  agreed  to  let 
me  have  all  over  $50,000  and  I  immediately  began  to  hunt  cus- 
tomers. I  brought  Mr.  Wheatley,  one  of  the  largest  lumber  deal- 
ers, and  Mr.  A.  R.  Appleman,  who  was  largely  interested  in  brick- 
kilns and  vice-president  of  the  Citizens'  National  Bank,  together, 
suggesting  that  they  buy  the  whole  block  between  them,  and  after 
going  through  the  details  they  decided  to  take  it  at  fifty  cents  per 
foot,  and  I  immediately  closed  the  deal,  taking  in  part  payment 
certain  properties,  which  was  satisfactory  to  Mr.  Thyson,  and 
which  gave  me  for  my  share  $24.662.50,  closing  the  transaction 
satisfactorily  all  round. 

I  afterwards  took  the  Woodmount  tract,  containing  about  2400 
acres  of  land  near  Hancock,  Md.,  and  Berkley  Springs,  Va.,  put- 
ting a  force  of  men  to  work  getting  out  tan  bark  and  ties ;  estab- 
lished a  large  grocery  store  there;  bought  several  canal-boats 
and  mules  to  run  them  back  and  forth  to  Georgetown,  and  would 
bring  down  boatloads  of  bark  and  ties  and  take  back  groceries 
and  stores  for  the  farmers. 

By  the  1st  of  January,  1874,  figuring  up  my  profits  and  specu- 
lations for  the  year  of  1873,  I  found  that  I  had  made  $63,000  in 
my  business.  Mr.  Appleman  and  Mr.  Wheatley  were  perfectly 
satisfied  with  their  great  bargain,  and  Mr.  Appleman  afterwards 
sold  half  of  his  portion  of  the  block  to  Senator  Hamilton  of 
Maryland  for  $i  per  foot,  just  double  what  he  paid  for  it.  Mr. 
Wheatley  built  a  number  of  houses,  which  sold  and  rented  at  an 
immense  profit.  This  proves  that  general  satisfaction  was  given 
all  around,  including  Mr.  Thyson,  who  got  $15,000  more  for  the 
property  than  he  had  been  asking  before  placing  it  in  my  hands 
for  sale. 


372 

The  following  is  a  sample  of  my  correspondence  during  the 
year: 

The  following  is  a  letter  sent  the  President  offering  my  ser- 
vices to  avenge  the  death  of  General  Ryan  and  his  party,  who 
were  captured  on  the  Virginia  and  taken  to  Cuba  and  murdered 
by  the  Spaniards : 

Washington,  D.  C,  November  17,  1873. 
Gen.  U.  S.  Grant, 

President  of  the  United  States : 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  request  authority  to  organize  a  com- 
mand to  avenge  the  death  of  those  unfortunate  men  who  have  just 
been  butchered  by  the  Spaniards,  who  naturally  supposed  they 
would  be  held  as  prisoners  until  it  was  proven  they  had  committed 
some  offense  justifying  the  inhuman  punishment  they  received, 
or,  at  least,  until  arrangements  had  been  made  for  their  liberty,  or 
they  would  have  fought  until  the  last  one  died  before  surrender- 
ing. As  they  were  on  the  high  seas,  sailing  under  the  American 
flag,  they  are  justified  in  not  showing  resistance  when  overhauled, 
but  naturally  tried  to  escape  from  being  captured  and  the  embar- 
rassment of  ever  being  held  as  prisoners;  but  from  my  personal  ac- 
quaintance with  a  few  of  the  party,  I  do  know  if  they  had  been  on 
Cuban  soil  they  would  not  have  surrendered  under  any  circum- 
stances, or  expected  leniency  from  either  Government.  I  am 
ready  to  organize  a  command  of  young,  able  and  experienced  vet- 
erans, who  can  take  the  field  within  fifteen  days.  I  have  no  one 
but  a  father  and  brother  to  mourn  my  death,  and  they  would 
rather  see  me  die  leading  a  gallant  command  on  to  victory  than 
live  suffering  the  disgrace  of  dismissal  from  the  Army,  while  my 
true  friends  know  the  charges  were  without  the  slightest  foun- 
dation. 

Trusting,  Mr.  President,  that  you  will  grant  this  authority,  I 
remain,  Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Late  Capt.,  U.  S.  A. 


CHAPTER  XII. 

January  I,  1874. 

I  made  up  a  party  this  morning  consisting  of  Colonel  Maish, 
Judge  Zering  and  Captain  Howe  and  made  the  best  of  my  usual 
New  Year  visits,  bidding  my  friends  good-bye,  this  being  my 
last  day  to  call  as  a  bachelor.  After  a  full  day  of  enjoyment,  we 
parted  at  half-past  n,  and  I  have  returned  to  my  quarters.  After 
the  assembling  of  Congress  I  appeared  before  the  committee  of 
the  Senate  which  had  my  bill  before  it  for  action,  and  found  a 
great  deal  of  opposition,  not  only  from  the  War  Department,  but 
from  those  of  the  Tenth  Cavalry  whom  I  had  never  recognized  as 
gentlemen  while  in  the  regiment,  feeling  myself  above  them. 

The  following  is  one  of  the  letters  from  Secretary  Belknap  to 
Senator  Powell  Clayton  of  the  Senate 'Military  Committee,  writ- 
ten for  the  purpose  of  trying  to  defeat  favorable  action  : 

War  Department, 

(1228.)  Washington  City,  February  1 6,  1874. 

Hon.  Powell  Clayton, 

U.  S.  Senator: 

Sir — In  reply  to  your  letter  of  the  9th  inst,  I  beg  to  inform  you 
that  Geo.  A.  Armes  was  nominated  to  be  Captain,  U.  S.  Army, 
December  21,  1870.  The  nomination  was  sent  to  the  Senate  after 
all  the  court-martial  proceedings  in  his  case  had  been  submitted 
and  passed  upon  by  this  Department. 

He  is  the  same  Captain  Armes  who  was  dismissed  by  sentence 
of  General  Court-Martial  June  7,  1870.  The  Senate  took  no  ac- 
tion upon  the  nomination. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

WM.  H.  BELKNAP, 

Secretary  of  War. 

The  following  are  copies  of  letters  from  officers  of  good  stand- 
ing, who  proved  their  friendship  in  offering  me  assistance  in  my 
efforts  to  secure  justice : 

Washington,  D.  C,  January  14,  1874. 
Geo.  A.  Armes, 

Late  Capt.  Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry: 

Dear  Sir — *  *  *  I  met  you  at  Fort  Lyon,  I.  T.,  several  times 
during  the  last  half  of  the  year  1868  on  occasions  of  my  periodical 


374 

pay  tours,  which  involved  brief  sojourns  at  that  post.  I  neither 
saw  nor  heard  anything  derogatory  to  your  good  private  charac- 
ter. On  the  contrary,  my  recollection  places  you  among  those 
officers  at  the  post  whose  personal  conduct  was  exceptionally 
good.  1  never  had  occasion  to  learn  of  your  character  for  general 
efficiency,  but  recollect  well  that  you  were  reputed  a  brave  man 
and  a  fine  horseman.  *  *  * 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)        C.  L.  LARNED, 

Paymaster,  U.  S.  A. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  January  19,  1874. 
Hon.  Jno.  A.  Logan, 

Chairman  Committee  on  Military  Affairs, 

U.  S.  Senate: 

Sir — I  have  known  George  A.  Armes,  late  Captain  Tenth  U.  S. 
Cavalry,  personally  since  April,  1867.  Have  always  found  him  to 
be  a  gentleman  of  good  habits  and  honorable  bearing.  From 
those  officers  who  served  wdth  him  during  the  late  war  I  have 
learned  that  his  record  was  very  good.  He  is  certainly  deserving 
and  ought  not  to  have  his  military  record  and  future  prospects 
blighted  by  the  sentence  of  a  court-martial,  actuated  and  influenced 
by  personal  considerations,  as  I  am  satisfied  the  court  that  tried 
Captain  Armes  was. 

1  hope  your  Committee  will  give  his  case  a  careful  investigation. 
With  great  respect,  your  obedient  servant, 

B.  F.  GRAFTON, 

Late  U.  S.  A. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  January  21,  1874. 
Captain  G.  A.  Armes : 

Dear  Captain — I  learn  you  are  trying  to  set  yourself  right  be- 
fore a  congressional  committee  for  the  purpose  of  brightening  the 
record  which  has  been  unjustly  sullied.  For  the  past  ten  years  I 
have  been  personally  acquainted  with  you,  having  served  with  you 
in  1863,  and  from  that  time  to  this  have  ever  esteemed  you  as  a 
gentleman.  As  to  your  military  record,  that  is  already  recorded 
as  one  of  the  brightest  in  our  history.  That  you  have  been  cruelly 
wronged  we  truly  believe,  and  I  earnestly  hope  you  may  be 
righted.  If  any  word  I  can  say  for  you  will  be  of  service  to  you, 
you  are  privileged  to  use  this,  and  as  to  my  standing  I  refer  to  the 
honorable  Senator  from  Texas,  Flannagan. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

CHARLES  F.  RAND,  M.  D., 
Late  U.  S.  A. 


375 

The  letter  of  the  Secretary  of  War  dated  January  n,  1873,  to 
General  Logan  influenced  the  Senator  to  such  an  extent  as  to 
cause  him  to  make  an  adverse  report  on  my  bill,  which  had  passed 
the  House  and  was  before  him  as  chairman  of  the  Senate  Military 
Committee,  without  any  investigation  being  made  by  his  com- 
mittee. Supposing  that  would  end  the  matter,  the  Secretary  of 
War  felt  highly  elated,  believing  that  he  had  defeated  my  pros- 
pects for  an  honorable  discharge,  and  although  he  did  defeat  it 
for  that  session,  I  waited  until  the  reassembling  of  Congress, 
when  I  presented  a  petition. 

The  chairman  of  the  Senate  committee  immediately  brought 
my  case  before  the  full  committee,  and  it  was  referred  to  Senator 
Clayton,  who  made  the  following  report: 

Your  committee  are  well  satisfied  that  the  charges  were  pre- 
ferred through  motives  of  jealousy  and  revenge,  and  the  proceed- 
ings show  that  there  was  a  determination  on  the  part  of  those  offi- 
cers who  instigated  the  prosecution  to  have  Armes  dismissed  at 
any  cost. 

It  has  been  shown  beyond  a  doubt  that  Captain  Armes  was  a 
brave  and  gallant  officer.  He  was  mentioned  in  General  Orders 
by  Gen.  Philip  St.  George  Cooke,  United  States  Army,  and  con- 
gratulated by  letter  by  Maj.-Gen.  Winfield  S.  Hancock,  and  rec- 
ommended for  promotion  for  energy  and  gallant  and  meritorious 
conduct  on  several  occasions,  both  during  the  rebellion  and  in 
campaigns  against  the  Indians,  and  was  promoted  Captain  from 
a  Second  Lieutenant,  and  made  a  Major  by  brevet'. 

Gen.  C.  C.  Augur,  Gen.  Nelson  A.  Miles,  Gen.  N.  B.  Buford, 
Gen.  B.  H.  Grierson  and  a  number  of  other  Army  officers  bear 
testimony  to  the  high  character  and  efficiency  of  Captain  Armes. 

Numerous  statements  from  responsible  and  well-known  citizens 
also  show  that  Captain  Armes  was  considered  an  upright  and  hon- 
orable man  by  those  who  have  known  him  longest  and  best. 

Your  committee  report  back  the  bill  without  amendment,  and 
recommend  its  passage. 

It  was  adopted  unanimously,  and  the  bill  passed  the  Senate. 
Going  to  the  House,  it  was  re-examined  again  by  a  new  commit- 
tee and  passed  and  went  to  the  President,  who  referred  it  to  the 
Secretary  of  War,  as  mentioned,  who  sent  the  following  letter  in 
order  to  defeat  it  if  possible : 


376 

War  Department,  June  i,  1874. 
To  the  President: 

Sir — 1  have  the  honor  to  return  herewith  the  Act  (Senate  249) 
providing  for  the  honorable  discharge,  with  a  year's  pay  and  al- 
lowances, of  Geo.  A.  Armes,  late  Captain  Tenth  Cavalry. 

Geo.  A.  Armes  was  dismissed  as  Captain  Tenth  Cavalry  by  sen- 
tence of  court-martial  June  7,  1870.  Numerous  applications  to 
the  President  and  Secretary  of  War  for  the  reopening  of  the  case 
have  been  declined,  but  in  December,  1870,  the  President  directed 
the  reappointment  of  Captain  Armes,  on  condition  of  his  tender- 
ing his  immediate  and  unconditional  resignation.  He  was  ac- 
cordingly nominated  December  21,  1870  (having  previously  placed 
his  resignation  in  the  hands  of  the  Secretary  of  War),  but  was  not 
confirmed  by  the  Senate  prior  to  its  adjournment.  The  many 
papers  presented  to  the  Department  by  Captain  Armes  since  that 
date  have  been  placed  on  file  without  action.  This  Act  provides 
that  Captain  Armes  shall  kibe  paid  the  same  pay  and  allowances  as 
if  he  had  been  discharged  under  the  provisions  of  the  third  section 
of  the  Act  of  July  15,  1870."  He  could  not  have  been  discharged 
under  that  act  June  7,  1870,  nor  prior  to  the  date  it  became  a  law, 
July  15,  1870,  as  it  was  not  retroactive  in  its  operation.  The  offi- 
cial circumstances  of  his  case  are  entirely  against  the  favorable 
action  as  provided  for  in  the  act,  and  the  relief  granted  thereby  is 
viewed  as  establishing  a  very  bad  precedent.  The  foregoing  are 
viewed  as  objections  and  reasons  why  the  Act  should  not  receive 
the  approval  of  the  President.  The  Secretary  of  War,  before  leav- 
ing for  West  Point,  directed  the  preparation  of  this  letter  as  ex- 
pressive of  his  views  in  reference  to  the  case  of  Mr.  Armes. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         H.  T.  CROSBY, 
Chief  Clerk. 

After  as  thorough  and  careful  an  investigation  of  my  case  as 
was  ever  made  before  the  committee,  a  unanimous  report  was 
made,  and  the  House  bill  which  had  passed  in  1873  was  brought 
before  the  Senate  and  unanimously  passed,  giving  me  an  honora- 
ble discharge,  as  set  forth  in  the  following  special  order  of  the 
War  Department : 

Special  Order  No.  136. 

War  Department,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  June  19,  1874. 
(Extract.) 

i.  Capt.  George  A.  Armes,  Tenth  Cavalry,  dismissed  the  ser- 
vice by  General  Court-Martial  Order  No.  36,  June  7,  1870,  from 
Headquarters  of  the  Army,  Adjutant-General's  Office,  is  honor- 
ably discharged  the  service,  to  date  June  7,  1870,  by  the  following 
Act  of  Congress : 


377 

"An  Act  authorizing  and  directing  the  Secretary  of  War  to  give 
to  Geo.  A.  Armes,  late  Captain  Tenth  United  States  Cavalry,  an 
honorable  discharge,  to  date  the  seventh  day  of  June,  eighteen  hun- 
dred and  seventy. 

''Be  it  enacted  by  the  Senate  and  House  of  Representatives  of  the 
United  States  of  America  in  Congress  assembled,  That  the  Secretary 
of  War  is  hereby  authorized  and  directed  to  give  to  George  A. 
Armes,  late  Captain  Tenth  United  States  Cavalry  and  Brevet  Ma- 
jor, United  States  Army,  an  honorable  discharge  from  the  service 
of  the  United  States,  to  date  June  seventh,  eighteen  hundred  and 
seventy,  and  that  said  George  A.  Armes  be  paid  the  same  pay  and 
allowance  as  if  he  had  been  discharged  under  the  provisions  of 
the  third  section  of  the  Act  entitled  'An  Act  making  appropriations 
for  the  support  of  the  Army  for  the  year  ending  June  thirtieth, 
eighteen  hundred  and  seventy-one,  and  for  other  purposes/  ap- 
proved July  fifteenth,  eighteen  hundred  and  seventy. 

"J.  G.  ELAINE, 
"Speaker  of  the  House  of  Representatives. 

"MATT.  H.  CARPENTER, 
"President  of  the  Senate  pro  tempore." 

Received  by  the  President  May  28,  1874. 

(Note  by  the  Department  of  State.) 

The  foregoing  Act  having  been  presented  to  the  President  of 
the  United  States  for  his  approval,  and  not  having  been  returned 
by  him  to  the  House  of  Congress  in  which  it  originated  within  the 
time  prescribed  by  the  Constitution  of  the  United  States,  has  be- 
come a  law  without  his  approval. 

When  I  applied  for  pay  under  the  law  the  following  endorse- 
ment was  put  on  my  paper: 

Adjutant-General's  Office,  June  19,  1874. 

Respectfully  referred  to  the  Paymaster-General.  In  his  ac- 
ceptance of  original  appointment  in  the  Army  as  Second  Lieuten- 
ant Second  U.  S.  Cavalry  in  1866  Captain  Armes  gave  his  resi- 
dence as  Annandale,  Fairfax  County,  Virginia.  His  station  June 
7,  1870,  was  Camp  Supply,  I.  T. 

(Signed)        THOMAS  A.  VINCENT, 
Asst.  Adjt.-Gen. 

Major  Vincent  knew  my  address  was  Washington,  D.  C.,  and 
not  at  either  place  mentioned  in  his  endorsement.  This  proves 
his  treachery,  which  has  been  continued  towards  me  ever  since. 
Could  meanness  descend  to  lower  depths? 

The  following  correspondence  further  elucidates  the  events  of 
the  year  1874: 


378 

Leavenworth,  Kan.,  June  29,  1874. 
Maj.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 

Washington,  D.  C.: 

Dear  Sir  —  Permit  me  to  congratulate  you  on  your  vindication 
of  yourself,  as  I  see  by  the  Army  and  Navy  Journal  of  June  20,  p. 
710,  that  you  have  been  successful  in  obtaining  your  honorable 
discharge.  No  one  rejoices  more  than  I  do  in  your  success,  which 
you  deserve.  God  bless  you  and  continue  your  prosperity. 

Your  friend,  sincerely, 

E.  N.  O.  CLOUGH. 


u, 


truy 

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'7kn4>  (UWW     ****     bkcr^  y 

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379 


Shortly  after  my  case  was  thoroughly  settled,  the  records  were 
corrected  so  as  to  show  I  had  an  honorable  discharge  and  the 
stigma  of  my  dismissal  wiped  off,  I  applied  to  the  President 
for  renomination  to  my  position  as  Captain,  enclosing  the  follow- 
ing recommendations  of  the  Military  Committee  both  of  the 
House  and  the  Senate : 


380 

The  President  failing  to  act  on  the  above,  I  took  my  summer 
outing,  visiting  my  Woodmont  farm,  stopping  over  at  Berkley 
Springs  for  a  short  time,  at  the  same  time  transferring  my  real- 
estate  business,  and  finally,  purchasing  a  lot  on  Tenth  street,  I 
arranged  to  give  up  my  bachelorhood  and  go  to  housekeeping 
with  a  partner.  On  the  I4th  day  of  October,  1874,  I  surprised 
my  friends  by  getting  married  to  Miss  Lucy  Hamilton  Kerr,  the 
following  notice  appearing  in  the  Evening  Star: 

"WEDDING  IN  THE  FIRST  WARD. 

"Col.  George  A.  Arnies,  formerly  of  Fainax  County,  .Virginia, 
late  of  the  United  States  Army,  and  now  one  of  our  successful  real 
estate  agents,  was  married  yesterday  morning  at  10  o'clock  to 
Miss  Lucy  H.  Kerr,  eldest  daughter  of  the  Hon.  John  Bozeman 
Kerr  of  this  city.  Colonel  Armes  is  the  young  officer  compli- 
mented in  general  orders  and  breveted  Major  in  the  regular  Army 
for  leading  a  charge  at  Hatcher's  Run  in  1864.  Again  mentioned 
in  general  orders,  and  brought  to  the  notice  and  approval  of  Gen- 
eral Grant,  he  was  specially  promoted  in  1866  for  capturing  and 
destroying  a  village  of  hostile  Indians  in  Dakota.  On  the  staff  of 
Maj.-Gen.  W.  S.  Hancock  during  a  portion  of  the  rebellion,  and 
successfully  engaged  with  the  Indians  in  1868,  this  young  officer 
was  recommended  for  brevet  Lieutenant-Colonel,  U.  S.  Army 
both  by  General  Hancock  and  General  Sherman.  The  Colonel 
and  his  bride  left  in  an  early  train  yesterday  for  the  North,  and 
they  carried  with  them  the  best  wishes  of  many  warm  and  true 
friends." 

Immediately  after  my  marriage  a  number  of  my  friends  es- 
corted me  to  the  Baltimore  &  Potomac  Depot,  where  I  took  the 
train  for  Niagara  Falls  and  a  number  of  other  resorts.  Major 
Flagler,  a  brother  of  the  late  General  Flagler,  Chief  of  Ordnance, 
a  custom-house  officer  on  duty  at  Niagara  Falls,  who,  with  his 
wife,  called  upon  myself  and  bride  and  took  us  in  their  carriage  to 
all  the  places  of  interest  at  the  Falls  and  in  Canada.  His  kindness 
I  shall  never  forget,  as  I  was  a  stranger  in  that  part  of  the  country 
then. 

Shortly  after  my  return  to  Washington  from  my  bridal  tour  I 
went  to  housekeeping  at  714  Tenth  street,  where  I  established  my 
office  and  carried  on  large  transactions  in  real  estate. 

At  the  time  of  my  marriage  I  was  the  owner  of  fourteen  houses, 
the  Woodmont  tract,  a  hundred  acres  of  land  in  Kentucky,  a  num- 
ber of  building  lots  at  Huntington,  Md.,  and  a  small  piece  of  land 


near  Muirkirk  Station,  Md.,  in  addition  to  $25,000  in  stocks  and 
bonds,  making  me  feel  more  independent  in  worldly  matters  than 
I  did  when  I  arrived  in  Washington  four  years  before  without  a 
dollar;  and  during  the  fall  of  1874  I  laid  my  plans  to  commence 
with  Congress  for  restoration  to  my  former  rank  in  the  Army. 

Boonville,  Mo.,  August  24,  1874. 
Friend  Armes: 

Yours  of  the  I7th  inst.  has  been  received.  I  imagine  that  you 
must  be  having  a  good  time  and  enjoying  yourself  at  that  great 
pleasure  resort,  Saratoga. 

My  Maryland  farm  is  for  sale.  Five  thousand  five  hundred  dol- 
lars will  purchase  it  just  as  I  left  it,  with  a  number  of  farming 
"requisites."  I  have  a  colored  man  living  on  the  place  to  take  care 
of  it.  This  is  less  money  than  it  cost  me  ten  years  ago,  besides 
what  I  have  spent  on  the  place  since.  Anyone  who  desires  a  farm 
in  the  vicinity  of  Washington  cannot  get  a  better  bargain  for  the 
amount  of  money. 

The  extreme  hot  weather  that  has  prevailed  here  all  summer  has 
cut  crops  short  throughout  the  State,  and  the  prospects  for  busi- 
ness of  all  kind  is  anything  but  flattering. 

I  hope  you  may  succeed  in  finding  me  a  purchaser  for  the  farm. 

My  family  are  all  well. 

Yours,  very  truly, 

A.  C.  WlDDECOMBE. 

"MURDEROUS    ATTACK — BOLD    ATTEMPT   TO    ROB    A    UNITED 
STATES  PAYMASTER — CAPTAIN  IRWIN,  FIFTH  CAVALRY, 

SHOT. 

''Denver,  Col.,  September  TO,  1874. — A  special  to  the  News, 
from  Hugo,  Col.,  contains  the  following: 

"A  bold  attempt  was  made  at  River  Bend  this  morning  to  rob 
the  United  States  Paymaster,  Major  Brooks,  as  he  was  going  from 
the  train  to  the  camp  of  the  Sixth  Cavalry,  about  three  miles  from 
River  Bend,  to  pay  the  troops.  He  got  off  the  western-bound 
train  early  this  morning,  and  was  met  at  the  station  by  Captain 
Irwin  and  Lieutenant  Witmore  of  the  Sixth  Cavalry,  with  an  am- 
bulance. 

"When  a  short  distance  from  the  station  the  ambulance  was 
halted  by  two  men  on  foot,  who  were  masked.  Three  shots  were 
fired  by  them  from  a  shotgun,  loaded  with  buckshot,  one  charge 
taking  effect  in  Captain  Irwin's  back.  At  first  his  injuries  were 
considered  slight,  but  he  has  since  commenced  bleeding  internally, 
and  is  now  spitting  blood.  Another  shot  was  fired  by  the  robbers 
from  a  pistol,  the  ball  passing-  across  Major  Brook's  lap  and 
through  Mrs.  Roberts'  hand,  making  a  painful  wound. 


382 

"Lieutenant  Witmore  fired  his  pistol  at  one  of  the  robbers, 
named  G.  W.  Graham,  formerly  a  Captain  in  the  Tenth  Cavalry 
at  Fort  Leavenworth.  The  ball  passed  through  his  body,  just  be- 
low his  heart,  and  he  is  dying.  The  other  robber,  John  Dick,  for- 
merly keeper  of  No.  I  Stage  Station  on  the  Atchison,  Topeka  & 
Santa  Fe  Railroad,  escaped,  but  the  cavalry  are  after  him." 

The  following  letter  will  show  on  what  familiar  terms  I  stood 
with  the  writer  : 


ife*  |nttcb 


&     S*     S~ 

•*•      C       &+—      r      C*-~*    -,    »,  ^  ^       ^ 


r—         


</-c. 

^ 


«j^ 


CHAPTER  XIII. 

After  breakfast  on  January  I,  1875,  I  drove  to  the  Arlington 
and  invited  Mr.  Morris,  Judge  Zering  and  General  Ross  to  make 
New  Year's  calls  with  me.  We  kept  up  until  9  o'clock,  when  I 
parted  with  my  guests,  who  expressed  themselves  as  having 
greatly  enjoyed  their  drive. 

During  the  month  of  January  I  overhauled  and  fixed  up  my 
house  with  all  modern  improvements  and  made  it  as  comfortable 
as  possible,  expending  more  to  remodel  it  than  it  would  have  cost 
to  build  a  new  house.  My  mother-in-law,  Mrs.  Kerr,  who  at  first 
thought  it  was  impossible  to  fix  over  an  old  house,  finally  inspected 
it  and  congratulated  me  for  having  made  such  a  cozy  place. 

Mr.  Waterman  Palmer,  a  very  wealthy  gentleman  who  had  pur- 
chased a  large  amount  of  property  in  Georgetown,  entrusted  his 
property  and  many  of  his  claims  to  me  to  look  after.  His  family 
seemed  to  take  a  great  interest  in  my  wife. 

An  agreement  with  General  Negley  is  only  one  of  the  many 
transactions  that  I  had  with  him  while  he  was  in  Congress.  Mr. 
Palmer  paid  him  $3000  down  to  bind  a  bargain,  and  he  imme- 
diately transferred  that  amount  to  me,  my  fee  being  $5000  in  all. 

I  quote  from  my  diary : 

January  15,  1875. 

Went  to  the  Capitol  today ;  had  a  very  satisfactory  interview 
with  General  Coburn,  chairman  of  the  Military  Committee  of  the 
House;  General  Hunton,  General  Hawley  of  Connecticut  and  Mr. 
Hawley  of  Illinois,  who  assured  me  that  they  will  do  everything 
they  can  in  my  behalf,  and  I  feel  that  I  can  rely  upon  them  to 
make  a  favorable  report  on  my  bill ;  also  saw  Governor  Shepperd 
about  the  Palmer  trade,  and  Mr.  Thyson  and  Moses  Kelly. 

January  16,  1875. 

Met  Judge  Zering  at  the  Arlington  and  Colonel  Markland  at 
the  Ebbitt,  then  called  on  Generals  Leech,  Negley  and  Morey  at 
the  Capitol,  who  have  taken  a  personal  interest  in  my  bill  and  as- 
sured me  they  would  vote  for  it.  General  Leech  and  General 
Negley  called  on  Belknap  in  my  behalf,  but  got  no  satisfaction. 


3*5 

January  20,  1875. 

Called  on  Mr.  Ward,  one  of  the  most  reliable  real-estate  ab- 
stracters  in  the  city,  and  he  fixed  up  the  title  for  Moses  Kelly 
and  the  Negley  property,  which  transactions  we  had  closed, 
amounting  to  $44,000. 

January  21,  1875. 

Mr.  Eaton  called  on  me  last  evening  and  made  a  proposition 
about  his  railroad  switch,  which  I  accepted.  I  paid  him  $2600 
for  his  interest.  Negley  is  also  interested. 

February  i,  1875. 

The  following  are  copied  from  the  records  now  on  the  files  of 
the  War  Department,  duplicates  being  filed  in  the  Houses  of 
Congress : 

Washington  D.  C,  February  n,  1875. 
Hon.  W.  W.  Belknap, 

Secretary  of  War. 

Sir— rl  demand  that  you  substantiate  the  statement  made  to 
the  chairman  of  the  Committee  on  Military  Affairs  of  the  House  of 
Representatives,  dated  "Fort  Sill,  Indian  Territory,  January  7, 
1874,"  and  transmitted  by  you  to  the  Senate  January  28,  1875,  or 
retract  same. 

Respectfully,  etc., 

GEO.  A.  ARMES, 
Late  Captain,  U.  S.  Army. 

Extract  from  Diary. — February  n,  1875. — General  Coburn 
showed  me  the  petition  that  General  Davidson  had  sent  him,  dated 
Fort  Sill,  January  7,  1874,  which  worked  me  up  so  that  I  imme- 
diately rushed  around  among  my  friends,  who  signed  the  follow- 
ing petition  as  an  off-set  to  sustain  me  in  opposition  to  the  peti- 
tion gotten  up  by  Davidson.  I  also  sent  a  copy  of  it  to  the  Secre- 
tary of  War,  and  one  to  the  House,  and  one  to  the  Senate,  with 
the  request  that  they  be  copied  and  put  on  file  with  the  official 
records  of  Congress. 

[House  of  Representatives.     Forty-third  Congress,  Second  Ses- 
sion.    Mis.  Doc.  No.  108."] 

GEORGE  A.  ARMES.     Papers  transmitted  to  the  Committee  on 
Military  Affairs,  in  the  case  of  George  A.  Armes. 


February  19,  1875. — Referred  to  the  Committee  on  Military  Af- 
fairs and  ordered  to  be  printed. 

25 


386 

Washington,  February  n,  1875. 
To  the  Honorable  Chairman  Military  Committee 

of  the  House  of  Representatives: 

We,  the  undersigned  officers  of  the  United  States  Army,  now 
in  Washington,  and  who  personally  know  Capt.  G.  A.  Armes,  late 
of  the  Army,  cheerfully  join  with  his  citizen  friends  and  ask  that 
he  be  reinstated  to  his  former  position  as  Captain  in  the  Army. 
From  what  we  know  or  have  heard,  we  can  say  he  is  a  gentleman 
above  reoroach. 

WM.  THOMPSON,  W.  H.  SLATER. 

Captain  Seventh  Cavalry,  U.  S.  A.       A.  W.  ADAMS. 
CHAS.  T.  LARNED,  FRED.  KOONES. 

Paymaster,  U.  S.  A.  JOHN  L.  KIDWELL. 

EDGAR  VAN  HORN,  WM.  G.  MOORE. 

L.  B.  G.  MILLER.  MOSES  KELLY. 

ROBT.  A.  PHILLIPS. 

J.  F.  BRODHEAD.  F.  SPINNER. 

FRED.  P.  STANTON.  S.  W.  JOHNSTON. 

GEO.  R.  WALBRIDGE,  Jos.  CASEY. 

Late  United  States  Army. 

The  undersigned  has  known  Captain  Armes  for  some  years, 
and  though  he  has  no  knowledge  of  the  special  causes  which  re- 
sulted in  his  leaving  the  service,  cannot  but  believe  that  a  miscon- 
ception of  his  character  was  the  cause.  Captain  Armes,  to  my  per- 
sonal knowledge,  is  a  brave,  capable  officer  and  a  gentleman. 

A.  T.  DALLAS,  JOHN  FLETCHER. 

Major  Twenty-third  Infantry.          A.  R.  APPLEMAN. 
L.  R.  TUTTLE.  A.  HART. 

J.  F.  EVANS.  OTIS  BTGELOW. 

ALLAN  RUTHERFORD.  J.  T.  COLDWELL. 

G.  T..  CHASE.  BRATNARD  H.  WARNER. 

"Washington,  February  n,  1875. 

Sir — I  have  seen  the  petition  which  you  and  a  few  others,  tinder 
date  of  Fort  Sill,  January  7,  1874  (5),  have  addressed  to  the  hon- 
orable chairman  of  the  Military  Committee  of  the  House  of  Rep- 
resentatives. The  object  of  this  malignant  paper  is  to  do  me  a 
wanton  injury,  but  in  the  end  it  will  fail  of  its  intended  effect. 
As  for  yourself,  the  evidence  of  your  cowardice  displayed  during 
the  war  of  the  rebellion  is  on  record ;  and  the  slanderous  paper 
you  have  handed  with  your  name,  and  no  doubt  instigated  your 
associates  to  sign,  is  only  the  natural  emanation  of  a  base  charac- 
ter. 

Major  Schofieldis  a  weak-minded  man,  easily  influenced  by  such 
as  you.  He  is  kept  in  place  by  the  influence  of  relatives  who 
happen  to  be  in  official  position,  and  is  naturally  a  toad y.  But 
that  he  should  play  that  part  toward  you  adds  degradation  to  his 
insignificance. 


Surgeon  F.  L.  Town,  Captain  Carlton,  Captain  Beach,  Captain 
Lawson,  Captain  Keys,  Captain  Norvell,  and  Captain  Viele  are 
persons  whom  I  do  not  remember  ever  having  seen.  As  I  know 
nothing  of  them  I  presume  they  take  their  impressions  of  me,  not 
from  any  knowledge  of  their  own,  but  from  your  false  representa- 
tions. Capt.  L.  H.  Carpenter  is  not  to  be  depended  upon  by  anyone 
who  knows  him.  For  his  true  character  I  refer  to  the  officers  of 
the  Sixth  United  States  Cavalry.  Captain  Kennedy  is  an  Irish 
blackguard,  who,  within  the  last  year,  was  arrested  by  the  police 
of  this  city,  and  taken  to  the  central  guard-house  for  insulting 
ladies  in  the  street.  Lieut.  J.  M.  Kelley  is  a  weak  and  simple- 
minded  creature,  kept  in  the  Army  by  relatives.  He  is  not  com- 
petent to  earn  a  support  in  civil  life.  Smithers,  Woodward,  Orle- 
man,  Myers,  and  Van  de  Wiele  are  low-bred  individuals,  and  I 
would  take  no  notice  of  any  of  them  if  I  did  not  feel  it  my  duty  to 
expose  to  the  public  the  character  of  your  instruments — the  men 
whose  names  you  have  procured  to  your  false  and  libelous  petition. 
You  know  that  you  utter  a  falsehood  when  you  state  that  you  are 
acquainted  with  me,  and  that  I  am  unfitted  for  a  commission  in  the 
Army  ;  also  when  you  allege  that  I  am  unworthy  in  consequence 
of  deficiency  in  education,  intellect,  morality,  and  the  qualities 
necessary  to  constitute  an  officer  and  a  gentleman  ;  and  when  you 
say  I  was  so  illiterate  that  I  could  not  indite  the  most  ordinary 
official  or  personal  communication  without  making  it  apparent  in 
the  diction  and  the  spelling  ;  when  you  allege  maladministration 
in  the  affairs  of  my  company  you  are  guilty  of  an  unmanly  lie, 
which  you  aggravate  with  your  natural  malignity  when  you  attri- 
bute the  alleged  failure  to  an  unevenly  balanced  mind.  You  lie 
when  you  say  I  made  no  effort  to  vindicate  my  character  in  1868 
at  Fort  Riley,  Kans.,  when  a  set  of  Army  loafers,  like  yourself, 
were  trying  to  crush  me,  and  you  well  know  the  absolute  falsity  of 
the  charge  made  against  me  in  the  court-martial  to  which  you 
refer  with  so  much  malignity.  You  reach  the  lowest  depths  of 
hypocrisy  and  lying  when  you  pretend  that  you  act  from  a  sense 
of  duty  to  the  Government  and  the  Army  in  making  the  above 
false  charges,  when  you  must  be  conscious,  if  you  have  any  con- 
science at  all,  that  you  yourself  deserve  the  fate  which  so  justly 
befell  your  worthy  comrades  and  associates,  Cox  and  Graham. 

I  defy  you  to  substantiate  the  statements  you  have  made  in 
your  infamous  petition.  No  one  knows  better  than  you  that  it 
was  false  testimony  which  put  me  out  of  the  Army.  The  presi- 
dent of  the  court,  Col.  Sam.  Sturgis,  was  a  drunken  loafer,  and 
any  other  action  could  not  be  expected  from  him,  as  it  would  be 
vain  to  expect  from  you  anything  honorable  or  truthful. 

GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Late  Captain  and  Brevet  Major,  U.  S.  A. 
J.  W.  DAVIDSON, 

Lieutenant  Colonel  Tenth  Cavalry,  U.  S.  A." 


388 

War  Department,  Washington  City,  February  13,  1875. 
Hon.  John  Coburn, 

Chairman  Committee  on  Military  Affairs, 

House  of  Representatives: 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  transmit  to  you  for  the  consideration 
of  your  honorable  committee  a  copy  of  a  letter  received  by  me 
from  Geo.  A.  Armes,  late  a  captain  in  the  Army.  His  letter  refers 
to  a  communication  made  by  me  to  the  Senate  (Senate  Ex.  Doc. 
No.  21,  Forty-third  Congress,  second  session)  transmitting  a  pe- 
tition of  officers  protesting  against  his  reappointment  in  the  Army. 
In  sending  forward  the  petition  I  remember  that  "the  Department 
concurs  in  the  views  expressed  in  this  petition,"  and  in  order  that 
no  misunderstanding  may  arise  as  to  the  meaning  of  this  language, 
I  beg  to  state  that  I. agreed  with  those  officers  that  "either  through 
personal  knowledge  or  testimony  of  others  we  are  satisfied  that 
he  is  utterly  unfitted  for  a  commission  in  the  Army,"  and  my 
knowledge,  personal  and  otherwise,  is  based  upon  the  record  of  a 
general  court-martial  dismissing  Armes  from  the  service,  upon 
the  testimony  of  the  Army  officers  who  have  signed  the  petition  in 
question  and  upon  his  personal  bearing  and  action  before  this 
Department  since  his  dismissal.  As  to  the  facts  which  the  petition 
sets  forth  as  occurring  elsewhere,  I  wish  to  say  that  my  knowledge 
is,  of  course,  confined  to  the  statements  of  the  petitioners  as  far  as 
they  may  be  supported  by  the  records  of  the  Department. 

A  copy  of  the  petition  referred  to  was  sent  by  me  to  the  House 
on  the  28th  ult.  and  referred  to  the  Committee  on  Military  Affairs 
on  the  3d  inst. 

Very  respectfully, 

W.  W.  BELKXAP. 

Secretary  of  War. 

I  enclosed  a  copy  of  the  foregoing  letter  with  the  following : 

Washington,  D.  C,  February  16,  1875. 
Colonel  Nolan  or  Lieutenant  Davis : 

Please  forward  through  the  gallant  and  manly  Adjutant  of  the 
Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry  the  enclosed  opinion  I  publicly  express  of 
those  who  think  they  have  ruined  me.  I  sent  the  original  to  the 
Secretary  of  War,  and  enclose  this  copy  for  those  who  are  inter- 
ested to  sleep  over,  get  drunk  over  or  think  over,  just  as  they  feel 
inclined.  I  think  Davidson  must  have  been  hard  up  for  names 
when  he  had  to  get  seven  creatures  whom  I  don't  know  and  who 
I  think  never  saw  me.  Tell  them  I  say  "Go  ahead;"  they  are  wel- 
come to  all  they  can  make  on  me,  and  the  future  will  show  for 
itself. 

Yours  truly, 

GEO.  A.  ARMES. 


P.  S. — Please  acknowledge  receipt,  etc.  If  there  is  anything  I 
can  do  for  you  here  let  me  know. 

The  most  powerful  of  my  antagonists  returned  to  the  assault 
with  the  following: 

War  Department,  Washington  City,  February  20,  1875. 
Hon.  John  Coburn, 

Chairman  Committee  on  Military  Affairs, 

House  of  Representatives: 

Sir — In  reply  to  your  letter  of  the  iQth  inst,  requesting  on  the 
behalf  of  the  Committee  on  Military  Affairs  of  the  House  of 
Representatives  that  all  papers  on  file  in  the  War  Department 
relating  to  the  standing  of  George  A.  Armes,  late  Captain,  U.  S. 
Army,  as  an  officer,  be  transmitted  to  the  committee  for  its  in- 
formation, I  beg  to  say  that  these  papers  are  quite  voluminous 
and  of  such  a  Character  that  they  could  not  be  copied  within  a 
short  period.  In  my  opinion  it  would  not  be  consistent  with  the 
public  interest  to  permit  the  originals  to  pass  out  of  the  possession 
of  the  Department  for  a  reason  which  I  can,  if  desired,  explain  to 
you  personally.  But  I  shall  be  most  happy  to  show  all  the  papers 
and  records  in  question  to  the  committee  or  to  any  member  thereof 
who  may  be  chosen  for  the  purpose. 

Very  respectfully, 
(Signed)        WM.  W.  BELKNAP, 

Secretary  of  War. 

I  now  resume  my  diary : 

February  20,  1875. 

Met  General  Coburn  at  the  Capitol,  who  showed  me  the  letter 
from  General  Belknap  protesting  against  his  favorable  action  on 
my  bill,  but  proving  himself  my  friend  by  allowing  me  to  keep 
the  letter.  He  will  pay  no  attention  to  it,  as  he  is  satisfied  that  I 
am  being  persecuted. 

Shortly  after  my  reply  to  the  petition  sent  in  by  Colonel  Davison 
and  others  the  officers  of  the  Tenth  Cavalry  got  up  a  scurrilous 
affidavit,  which  was  sworn  to  by  a  negro  named  William  Johnson, 
who  could  not  read  or  write,  and  had  it  fixed  up  by  these  officers 
and  forwarded  to  the  committee  with  the  hope  that  they  might  be 
influenced  to  report  against  my  bill,  but  after  a  thorough  inves- 
tigation it  was  thrown  to  one  side  with  other  scurrilous  and  false 
representations. 


390 

February  23,  1875. 

While  at  the  Capitol  today  General  McDougal  oi  i\ew  York, 
who  had  always  been  my  friend  while  in  the  field  and  ever  since, 
while  in  Congress,  handed  my  papers  to  me  in  order  that  I  might 
get  them  in  print. 

February  25,  1875. 

While  looking  through  the  morning  papers  before  breakfast  I 
noticed  the  death  of  my  brother's  mother-in-law,  Mrs.  Beard,  and 
after  breakfast  Lucy  and  I  went  up  there  to  tender  our  services. 

March  4,  1875. 

After  breakfast  Lucy  and  I  went  to  see  Senator  Alcorn  of  Mis- 
sissippi, then  to  the  Capitol,  where  I  was  admitted  to  the  floor  of 
the  House  and  watched  the  old  Forty-third  Congress  die,  stand- 
ing near  Speaker  Blaine  during  his  short  address  to  the  House, 
thanking  it  for  the  honor  of  retaining  him  as  Speaker  for  six 
years.  I  never  saw  a  man  receive  such  tremendous  applause  as 
Elaine  when  he  announced  "the  House  is  adjourned."  Tears 
came  in  his  eyes,  he  was  so  affected,  and  hundreds  came  to  con- 
gratulate him  and  bid  him  good-bye.  It  was  a  great  sight  to  wit- 
ness the  sad  expression  on  each  member's  face  as  he  left  his  seat, 
many  never  to  return. 

March  15,  1875. 

Sent  off  a  large  number  of  my  printed  documents  with  my 
reply  to  Davison's  petition  to  the  officers  of  the  Army  throughout 
the  country. 

March  22,1875. 

Closed  a  large  transaction  with  Mr.  Gilbert  and  Waterman 
Palmer  of  property  in  Chicago,  receiving  a  commission  of  $1300. 

March  27,  1875. 

After  breakfast  I  called  on  Senator  B.  F.  Rice  at  his  office  on 
Fourteenth  street.  He  and  his  wife  and  I  drove  out  to  look  at 
some  houses,  and  they  seemed  very  much  pleased  with  one  on 
Corcoran  street.  The  Senator  is  one  of  the  friends  of  my  bill. 

Baltimore,  Md.,  April  14. 

I  made  quite  a  deal  here  today  with  Mr.  Gilbert,  and  have 
taken  four  houses  in  the  transaction.  Met  Senator  Hamilton  and 
Charley  Kerr,  my  wife's  uncle,  who  married  Miss  Ella  Johnson, 
youngest  daughter  of  Reverdy  Johnson.  I  have  been  very  hand- 
somely entertained  while  in  Baltimore. 


April  1 8,  1875. 

Lucy  and  I  attended  St.  Matthew's  Church  again  this  morning. 
We  have  not  missed  a  Sunday  since  our  marriage.  We  usually 
meet  Colonel  Berrett,  one  of  the  principal  members.  Senator 
Kernan  and  family  of  New  York  are  also  members  of  this  church 
and  occupy  a  pew  near  us. 

April  30,  1875. 

Sold  Mr.  Gibson  of  New  York  a  house  on  Corcoran  street, 
receiving  a  commission  of  $550. 

Hancock,  Md.,  June  24,  1875. 

I  have  found  it  necessary  to  make  a  visit  to  my  farm  here,  and 
have  been  very  busy  all  day  with  my  foreman,  Mr.  Hall,  going 
over  it.  He  has  not  made  it  very  profitable  to  me  so  far.  This 
afternoon  I  visited  Berkley  Springs  and  met  quite  a  number  of 
Washingtonians  who  were  spending  the  summer  there,  among 
them  Judge  Wright,  who  owns  a  cottage. 

July  12,  1875. 

Took  a  drive  with  Orville  Grant,  the  President's  brother,  this 
afternoon.  He  is  very  anxious  to  purchase  my  trotting  horse, 
Frank. 

July  15,  1875. 

Took  Commissioner  Johnson  of  the  customs  driving  this  after- 
noon and  introduced  him  to  Fred  Grant,  who  has  purchased  con- 
siderable property  lately.  Mr.  Grow,  Fred  Grant  and  myself  went 
out  to  look  at  the  houses. 

July  19,  1875. 

I  had  a  long  talk  with  Fred  Grant  today  with  regard  to  his 
houses ;  also  took  Mrs.  General  Boynton  to  see  one  of  them ;  then 
introduced  Max  Wilder  to  Fred  Grant,  and  tried  to  get  him  to 
purchase  the  Fifteenth-street  house.  While  on  the  drive  we  met 
General  and  Mrs.  Capron,  and  this  afternoon  Fred  Grant  and  I 
called  on  Mr.  Wilder. 

August  i,  1875. 

Last  night  we  had  quite  a  tea  party  at  the  house.  I  sent  for  Dr. 
Muncaster  and  my  wife's  mother  and  Aunt  Ray,  who  were  all 
called,  and  this  morning  my  little  girl  was  born  at  10  o'clock. 

August  24,  1875. 

After  I  returned  from  market  this  A.  M.  Mr.  Kelly  called  and 
paid  me  $1400  cash  for  lot  5  in  square  465  on  Mr.  Ward's  abstract 
of  title. 


392 

October  17,  1875. 

I  rented  one  of  Col.  Fred  Grant's  houses  on  Vermont  avenue 
today  for  $50  per  month,  and  had  quite  an  interview  with  Senator 
Vance  and  Governor  Sheppard,  with  the  latter  of  whom  I  am  in- 
terested in  large  real-estate  transactions. 

November  6,  1875. 

Senator  Hitchcock  of  Nebraska  and  I  drove  out  to  look  at 
property  this  afternoon  and  had  a  long  talk.  He  became  very 
much  interested  in  my  case.  I  also  took  Secretary  Bristow  of  the 
Treasury  Department  to  see  Mrs.  Gen.  Morgan  L.  Smith's  house, 
for  which  she  wants  $8000  rent.  Finally,  after  a  little  discussion 
in  regard  to  what  Secretary  Bristow  thought  was  an  enormous 
rent,  he  agreed  to  take  the  house. 

It  would  not  have  been  in  accordance  with  human  nature  had 
I  not  read  with  interest  the  following,  which  has  just  reached  me : 

(Colorado  Miner  and  Advertiser  of  Friday,  October  22,  1875.) 
The  Pueblo  Chieftain  says:  A  gentleman  from  Rosita  who  was 
present  at  the  capture  of  Major  Graham  states  that  Graham 
begged  so  hard  to  be  released,  offering  to  go  back  to  penitentiary 
at  Canton  for  life  or  to  leave  the  country  immediately.  He  was  told 
that  he  might  run  for  his  life,  which  he  proceeded  to  do,  attempt- 
ing to  grab  a  shotgun  from  one  of  his  captors  as  he  started.  He 
was  soon  riddled  with  bullets.  Our  informant  says  that  Graham 
was  a  coward  and  a  bully,  and  took  part  in  the  mining  difficulty 
from  pure  meanness,  with  the  hope  of  obtaining  an  opportunity  of 
shooting  someone.  His  great  aim  seemed  to  be  to  rule  the  whole 
camp,  but  he  finally  died  with  his  boots  on,  as  most  men  of  his 
stamp  do. 

November  8,  1875. 

While  at  breakfast  I  received  a  letter  from  Secretary  Bristow 
declining  Mrs.  Smith's  house,  which  was  quite  a  surprise,  as  he 
had  decided  only  Saturday,  the  6th,  that  he  would  take  it  at  her 
price.  After  receipt  of  his  letter  I  called  on  the  Secretary  in  per- 
son to  try  and  find  out  why  he  withdrew  his  offer,  when  he  smiled 
and  said  in  a  joking  way  he  had  talked  the  matter  over  with  his 
wife,  and  they  had  not  been  able  to  discover  any  way  of  disposing 
of  the  other  thousand  dollars  of  his  salary,  and  if  he  should  give 
$7000  for  the  house  there  would  be  a  thousand  extra  left.  He 
finally  admitted,  however,  that  $5000  per  year  was  as  much  as  he 
thought  he  cared  to  pay  for  the  rent  of  a  house,  but  didn't  wish 
to  jew  Mrs.  Smith  down. 


393 

November  13,  1875. 

It  was  I  o'clock  A.  M.  before  Lucy  and  I  retired,  as  we  at- 
tended A.  A.  Birney's  wedding  reception,  and  danced  until  12 
o'clock.  There  were  at  least  seventy-five  or  one  hundred  persons 
present,  and  it  was  as  happy  and  pleasant  a  gathering  as  I  ever 
saw  assembled.  The  bride  looked  beautiful,  and  Lex  looked  like 
a  bashful  boy.  After  congratulating  and  wishing  them  all  success 
and  a  happy  future,  we  parted  at  a  little  after  12  o'clock. 

November  16,  1875. 

Mrs.  George  Davis,  mother  of  Lewis  Davis,  the  banker,  has 
given  me  the  care  of  quite  a  large  amount  of  her  property,  and  I 
have  been  quite  busy  having  her  house,  corner  Eleventh  and  G, 
remodeled. 

November  29,  1875. 

Called  on  Captain  Hayes  of  theFifth  Cavalry  at  the  Ebbitt  last 
evening.  Met  General  Fitzhugh  Lee  and  Major  Conrad  of  Vir- 
ginia, and  spent  a  very  social  and  pleasant  evening.  General  Lee 
is  a  special  friend  of  Captain  Hayes,  who  used  to  be  his  bugler 
before  the  war. 

December  3,  1875. 

Sold  one  of  Mr.  Cammack's  houses  on  Corcoran  street,  who 
paid  me  $200  on  account  of  commission ;  also  sold  Gunston  &  Co. 
one  of  Col.  Fred  Grant's  houses  on  Vermont  avenue  for  $5000. 

December  4,  1875. 

The  first  thing  after  breakfast  I  called  at  Colonel  Grant's  bank. 
He  got  in  my  buggy,  and  we  drove  to  Colonel  Wilder's  house, 
then  to  Governor  Sheppard's  by  way  of  my  office,  then  to  Gun- 
ston's,  then  from  there  to  the  city  hall,  to  Colonel  Plowman's,  to 
Orville  Grant's,  who  is  sick,  and  from  there  I  drove  Fred  to  see 
his  father  at  the  White  House. 

John  Sherman  is  a  partner  in  the  bank  of  Sherman  &  Grant, 
and  I  am  one  of  their  depositors,  doing  quite  a  large  business.  A 
great  many  contractors  and  business  men  are  patronizing  their 
bank,  getting  large  discounts  carried  through,  and  some  of  their 
customers,  I  notice,  are  sharpers,  and  if  the  firm  of  Sherman  & 
Grant  are  not  very  careful  they  will  be  taken  advantage  of. 

Senator  John  Sherman  seems  to  be  one  of  the  principal  ad- 
visers, and  is  at  the  bank  a  great  part  of  his  time. 


394 

December  19,  1875. 

Last  night  1  called  on  my  father  a  short  time,  then  went  to  see 
Mr.  Baker  from  Indiana  in  relation  to  a  house ;  also  spent  an  hour 
or  two  with  Mr.  A.  C.  Buell,  who  sent  a  letter  that  we  fixed  up  in 
regard  to  Mr.  Belknap's  running  for  the  Senate  that  will  defeat 
him,  as  I  have  taken  quite  an  active  part  with  my  friends  in  Iowa, 
showing  his  underhanded  work  against  me. 

December  21,  1875. 

After  dinner  Dr.  Woodbury  came  in  for  a  short  time,  and  we 
went  to  the  Ebbitt  House  and  Willard's,  then  called  on  General 
Banning,  who  had  just  been  appointed  chairman  of  the  Military 
Committee,  and  is  also  a  friend  of  mine.  I  then  went  to  the  office 
of  the  Chronicle,  where  we  had  a  long  chat  with  Colonel  Corkhill, 
who  handed  me  a  check  for  $50  on  a  transaction  we  are  inter- 
ested in. 

December  22,  1875. 

Called  at  Sherman  &  Grant's  bank  and  met  Speaker  Kerr, 
whom  I  drove  to  the  Capitol  and  got  him  very  much  interested 
in  my  case.  I  am  satisfied  I  may  rely  upon  him  as  a  friend. 

December  24,  1875. 

General  Babcock,  General  Grant's  private  secretary,  and  I 
drove  around  to  look  at  his  houses,  which  he  gave  me  to  sell.  He 
has  proved  himself  a  strong  friend  during  my  military  troubles. 

December  25,  1875. 

On  my  return  from  the  Ebbitt  House  last  evening  I  stopped  in 
a  book  store  and  bought  a  valuable  copy  of  Shakespeare,  and 
came  home  and  hid  them  until  after  Lucy  had  retired,  and  this 
morning  she  found  them  as  a  Christmas  present. 

December  28,  1875. 

I  am  now  spending  a  great  deal  of  time  getting  my  evidence  in 
regard  to  Secretary  Belknap's  crooked  transactions,  and  have 
just  written  a  letter  to  General  Sherman  for  points. 

December  30,  1875. 

Formulated  quite  an  interesting  set  of  charges  against  Belknap, 
and  have  General  Clarke  of  Iowa,  Gen.  Charles  Ewing  and  others 
to  back  me. 


395 

December  31,  1875. 

This  being  the  last  day  of  the  year,  I  have  been  busy  making 
collections  and  settling  up  my  affairs,  getting  ready  for  the  new 
year,  to  make  New  Year's  calls  tomorrow. 

I  have  had  a  very  prosperous  year ;  my  wife,  baby  and  myself 
are  enjoying  good  health ;  have  three  carriages,  four  horses,  five 
servants,  and  our  house  comfortably  furnished  and  in  good  con- 
dition for  entertaining  our  friends,  so  that  I  have  little  to  com- 
plain of,  except  that  I  have  not  been  able  to  get  justice  from  the 
War  Department,  but  I  propose  to  follow  it  up  until  I  do. 


CHAPTER  XIV. 

January  i. 

Lucy  and  I  commenced  the  new  year  as  we  did  last  year — by 
saying  our  prayers  before  breakfast — but  we  had  one  more  to 
pray  for  this  morning  than  before.  Our  little  Cecflia  is  five 
months  old  today.  After  breakfast  I  called  on  my  father,  and, 
with  Mr.  A.  C.  Buell,  made  thirty-four  New  Year  calls.  The 
weather  is  like  summer,  and  we  rode  without  overcoats. 

January  9. 

Spent  most  of  last  evening  with  Governor  Walker  of  Virginia 
and  Mr.  Lewis  of  Alabama.  The  latter  has  taken  quite  an  interest, 
and  is  assisting  me  to  get  Belknap's  case  investigated. 

January  10. 

Took  Hon.  B.  B.  Lewis  driving  and  to  see  a  number  of  houses. 
We  again  talked  over  the  Belknap  case,  and  he  has  agreed  to  go 
to  see  Mr.  Randall  the  first  chance  that  occurs.  I  also  took  Mr. 
Adams  to  see  a  number  of  houses  belonging  to  Moses  Kelly, 
but  did  not  close  any  trade. 

(St.  Louis  Daily  Times  of  Monday,  January  10,  1876.) 

ARMES'    CHARGES    AGAINST    SECRETARY    BELKNAP. 

Washington. 

George  A.  Armes,  who  is  now  pursuing  the  profession  of  a 
claim  agent  in  this  city,  will  shortly  prefer  charges  against  Sec- 
retary Belknap,  if  he  can  get  a  hearing,  and  if  not  will  endeavor 
to  have  congressional  action  taken  upon  his  case.  The  following 
is  a  synopsis: 

1.  That  W.  W.  Belknap  did  borrow  money  to  pay  his  personal 
expenses  and  debts  at  the  time  he  was  made  Secretary  of  War, 
not  owning  any  real  estate  in  this  city  or  anywhere  else  at  that 
time,  but  is  now  the  owner  of  over  $40,000  in  real  estate,  stocks, 
bonds,  etc.,  and  living  at  an  expense  of  over  $10,000  a  year  upon 
a  salary  of  $8000. 

2.  That  W.  W.  Belknap  did  cause  applications  for  post-trader- 
ships  to  be  made  to  a  certain  party  in  Washington  city,  who  had 
them  appointed  for  certain  considerations. 

3.  That  W.  W.  Belknap  received  an  amount  of  money  for  giving 
out  contracts  for  headstones  for  soldiers'  graves. 


397 

4.  That  he  received  money  or  its  value  for  giving  subordinate 
positions  in  the  Government  departments. 

5.  That  he  wrote  letters  and  made  statements  for  members  and 
Senators  in  Congress  which  he  knew  to  be  false,  tending  to  dis- 
•grace  the  character  of  a  young  officer  whose  reputation  is  unim- 
peachable. 

6.  That  he  employs  one  or  more  private  servants,  falsely  re- 
porting their  duties. 

January  n. 

Had  a  long  talk  with  General  Hazen,  Chief  Signal  Officer,  who 
has  the  names  of  witnesses  and  evidence  enough  to  impeach  Bel- 
knap  if  we  can  get  his  case  up  before  Congress.  Mr.  Lewis  and 
I  called  on  Mr.  Randall  and  made  an  appointment  for  an  inter- 
view. 

January  12. 

Spent  a  portion  of  last  evening  with  Mr.  Lewis  and  agreed  to 
meet  Mr.  Randall  at  7  o'clock  tomorrow  evening. 

January  13. 

Mr.  Lewis  and  I  spent  several  hours  with  Mr.  Randall  last 
evening,  going  through  the  whole  case  of  Belknap's  transactions, 
and  he  directed  us  to  call  and  put  the  matter  before  General  Ban- 
ning, chairman  of  the  Military  Committee,  whom  we  called  upon 
today.  After  going  through  the  details,  General  Banning  de- 
clined to  bring  the  matter  before  his  committee,  stating  that 
General  Hazen  had  presented  the  same  charges  in  substance,  and 
for  many  political  reasons  he  could  not  afford  to  make  a  fight  on 
the  Secretary  of  War,  and  we  had  to  give  up  all  hopes  of  gettting 
the  matter  brought  up  before  his  committee. 

January  14. 

Called  on  Mr.  Lewis  last  evening  and  appointed  a  time  to  call 
on  Mr.  Randall  again. 

January  15. 

Mr.  Lewis  and  I  drove  to  Mr.  Randall's  this  morning.  He  ap- 
peared quite  provoked  at  General  Banning' s  declination  to  inves- 
tigate the  Belknap  matter,  and  referred  us  to  Mr.  Clymer,  chair- 
;  man  of  Expenditures  of  War  Department. 


398 

January  16. 

Mr.  Lewis  and  I  called  on  Mr.  Clymer,  who  agreed  to  look  into 
the  matter  and  bring  it  before  his  committee. 

January  17. 

After  breakfast  called  on  Governor  Walker,  who  is  very  anx- 
ious to  purchase  a  large  house,  at  his  hotel;  also  called  on  Mr. 
Clymer,  who  seemed  to  be  very  indifferent  about  the  Belknap 
matter. 

January  20. 

Went  to  the  Capitol,  calling  on  General  Williams  of  Michigan, 
who  has  promised  to  bring  my  bill  before  the  committee,  but 
failed  to  get  action.  Wrote  Secretary  Belknap  a  letter  of  defiance 
today. 

January  21. 

Spent  last  evening  with  Mr.  Lewis,  who  informed  me  that  Mr. 
Clymer  had  been  talking  with  Belknap,  who  advised  him  to  pay 
no  attention  to  any  charge  that  I  would  make.  He  said  he  had 
decided  not  to  go  any  further  in  the  matter,  but  requested  me  to 
give  him  any  letters  of  reference  and  any  further  proof  I  had  of 
Belknap's  crooked  transactions,  which  I  agreed  to  do. 

January  22. 

Had  a  long  talk  with  Generals  Banning  and  Williams  of  the 
House  Military  Committee,  and  they  agreed  to  refer  my  papers 
to  General  Glover  of  Missouri  of  the  Military  Committee  for  fur- 
ther investigation. 

January  24. 

I  satisfied  Mr.  Lewis  today  that  I  could  substantiate  every 
charge  I  made  against  Belknap,  and  he  called  upon  Mr.  Clymer, 
informing  him  that  if  he  did  not  have  the  matter  investigated  im- 
mediately he  would  ask  a  resolution  of  the  House.  I  then  called 
on  Senator  Bayard,  who  went  with  me  over  to  the  House,  where 
we  had  a  long  talk  with  Clymer.  Mr.  Bayard  is  a  very  strong 
friend  of  mine,  anxious  to  see  my  persecutors  brought  to  justice 
and  agrees  to  aid  me  in  every  way  possible. 


399 


January  28. 

General  Williams  turned  all  my  papers  over  to  General  Glover 
of  Missouri  today,  who  has  agreed  to  get  me  an  inteview  and  to 
help  me  all  he  can.  Saw  Mr.  Lewis  for  a  few  moments.  He  is 
satisfied  that  Mr.  Clyrner  will  investigate.  I  referred  him  to  Gen- 
eral Hazen  and  gave  him  a  list  of  all  the  necessary  witnesses  to 
examine  before  he  calls  up  the  case.  Lucy  has  spent  several  hours 
in  helping  me  to  write  letters,  proving  herself  to  be  a  devoted  wife. 
Spent  last  evening  with  General  Glover,  who  will  make  a  report  as 
soon  as  he  can  get  further  information  from  the  War  Depart- 
ment. I  wrote  to  Belknap  for  all  papers  in  connection  with  my 
case.  Called  on  Senator  Spencer  at  the  Arlington,  who  agrees 
to  take  an  interest  himself. 


400 

January  31. 

Was  at  the  Capitol  today  and  made  an  appointment  to  meet 
Mr.  Clymer  at  10  o'clock  tomorrow.  Saw  Senator  Spencer  about 
my  bill,  which  he  agrees  to  introduce.  General  Glover  informed 
me  that  he  had  quite  a  long  talk  with  Belknap,  who  agreed  to 
send  him  all  my  papers  immediately. 

February  I. 

Called  on  General  Glover  last  evening;  also  on  Senator  Clay- 
ton, who  was  playing  chess,  and  not  wishing  to  disturb  him,  I  left, 
returning  after  an  hour  or  two,  remaining  in  the  room  with  him 
until  12  o'clock  before  I  could  have  any  talk  with  him  about  my 
bill.  Met  Mr.  Clymer  and  Mr.  Lewis  today,  and  we  all  sat  down 
and  drafted  charges  against  Belknap  in  order  that  he  could  be 
brought  before  the  committee. 

February  2. 

I  was  before  the  Clymer  committee  this  A.  M. 

February  9. 

I  went  before  the  Clymer  committee  to  day.  Mr.  Clymer  was 
very  much  vexed  about  Hester,  who  has  proved  himself  very  un- 
reliable. Saw  Mr.  Springer  of  Illinois,  who  is  one  of  my  friends. 

February  u. 

Met  Senator  Spencer  last  evening  at  the  Arlington,  and  called 
on  General  Logan  also,  who  appeared  to  be  more  friendly  than 
he  had  been  heretofore.  Judge  Clymer  sent  for  me  today.  Saw 
the  Judge- Advocate-General,  who  pretended  to  be  very  friendly, 
but  I  cloubt  him,  as  he  is  doing  what  he  can  to  keep  me  down. 

February  13. 

I  attended  the  meeting-  of  the  Maryland  Committee  at  Willard's 
and  was  elected  one  of  the  delegation  to  visit  Baltimore  in  at- 
tendance at  Reverdy  Johnson's  funeral,  of  which  Dr.  C.  C.  Cox 
was  made  chairman.  We  all  left  on  the  9.45  train,  and  made  our 
headquarters  at  the  Eutaw  House.  The  streets  were  blocked, 
thousands  of  people  surrounding  Mr.  Johnson's  house,  and  it  is 
said  that  such  a  gathering  was  never  known  to  be  assembled  at 
the  funeral  of  anyone  in  Baltimore  before.  After  it  was  over  Sen- 
ator Pinckney  Whyte  invited  the  Chief  Justice  and  a  number  of 
United  States  Senators  and  our  committee  to  his  house  to  lunch, 


401 

which  was  one  of  the  most  elaborate  I  ever  saw  served.  Terra- 
pin, champagne  and  everything  the  market  could  afford  was  got- 
ten up  in  the  grandest  style. 

February  15. 

Spent  several  hours  with  General  Hazen,  who  has  most  of  the 
evidence  and  names  of  the  principal  witnesses  in  \  the  Belknap 
case.  He  is  one  of  my  strongest  Army  friends  and  one  of  the 
most  honorable  and  conscientious  officers  in  the  Army.  He  is 
only  anxious  for  the  good  of  the  service  and  to  see  that  thieves 
and  dishonorable  men  are  exposed.  Saw  Judge  Clymer  of  the 
committee,  who  has  collected  some  valuable  information.  He 
acknowledged  to  me  that  he  believed  Belknap  was  guilty  of  every 
charge  that  I  had  brought  against  him. 

February  16. 

Mrs.  Governor  Thomas  of  Virginia  called  on  my  wife  today. 
She  remains  a  true  friend  to  me,  and  appears  to  cherish  no  ill  feel- 
ing on  account  of  the  part  I  took  against  her  relatives  and  her 
son,  who  was  a  neighbor  of  mine  in  Virginia.  She  is  a  sister  to 
James  W.  Jackson,  who  killed  Colonel  Ellsworth  in  Alexandria 
in  1861  at  the  Marshall  House.  General  Glover  turned  over  the 
proceedings  furnished  by  Belknap  against  me  to  the  committee, 
but  they  had  no  effect. 

I  wrote  my  persecutor  as  follows  : 

Washington,  D.  C,  February  18,  1876. 
Hon.  W.  W.  Belknap, 

Secretary  of  War: 

Sir — It  might*be  exacting  too  much  of  your  time,  under  daily 
pressure  of  official  station,  as  among  the  Cabinet  officers,  to  right 
what  the  stinging  wrongs  against  the  good  name  of  one  faithfully, 
honestly  and  satisfactorily  performing  his  every  duty  would  really 
justify.  Commissioned  an  officer  and  then  breveted  over  and 
again,  with  wounds  enough  in  a  boyish  haste  to  be  on  the  side  of 
the  country  and  its  Government,  may  I  not  ask  you  to  spare  me 
the  burden  of  the  inference  you  would  have  members  of  Con- 
gress draw  from  heated  and  hasty  votes.  It  does  not  belong  to 
the  true  soldier  to  deal  in  threatening  words  or  to  be  muttering 
about  his  revenge.  Of  all  the  general  officers  under  whom  I  have 
served  and  whose  strong  testimonials  bore  me  along  from  brevet 
to  brevet  not  one  could  be  found  willing  to  let  my  name  be 
coupled  with  acts  of  a  blackmailing  object.  God  knows  I  am  open 
and  above-board,  and  in  no  case  more  so  than  in  trying  eag-erly  to 


402 

awaken  your  sense  of  magnanimity  towards  an  abused  and  in- 
jured young  officer.  Though  from  Virginia,  there  were  some  dis- 
tant family  associations  with  the  Northwestern  State  of  Iowa,  and 
I  was  looking  ahead  for  a  time  when  your  election  to  the  Senate 
of  the  United  States  and  thence  to  something  else  might  be  backed 
if  not  altogether  balked. 

No,  sir;  not  from  me,  humbled  and  disgraced  as  your  persistent 
course  has  tried  to  keep  me,  that  I  did  not  wait  for  your  public 
avowal  of  ambitious  aims  towards  the  Senate  and  know  further 
that  the  straightforward,  honest  statement  of  a  Union  soldier, 
maligned  by  a  set  of  disreputable  miscreants,  shown  to  have  been 
so  by  your  own  records,  and  therefore  entitled  to  sympathy  and 
official  rescue,  when  the  truth  had  reached  the  Department,  did 
help  to  defeat  you  for  the  Senate  through  honest-hearted  Iowa 
ballots,  not  threatening  paper  bullets  of  my  over-excited  brain. 
Here  was  my  "revenge,''  and  ought  we  not  to  be  at  quits.  No,  sir. 
Make  them  at  the  War  Department  erase  from  the  rolls  and 
records  all  entries  and  statements  set  there — of  course,  not  by  or 
through  you — but  wholly  through  a  set  of  perjured  and  disreputa- 
ble witnesses,  before  a  burlesque  of  justice  and  right,  as  shown 
now  by  subsequent  developments  in  and  out  of  courts,  civil  or 
military.  C'ease  to  be  a  partisan  advocate  of  a  bad  cause  where  the 
good  name  of  a  young  man  is  in  the  balance,  with  the  confidence 
and  kindly  regard  of  some  of  the  noblest  military  men  in  the 
annals  of  American  history  tendered  to  Congress  in  his  behalf, 
and  you  rise  far  beyond  the  reach  of  so  mean  a  thing  as  this  re- 
puted revenge  on  my  part,  under  your  construction  of  my  letters. 
That  you  may  be  able  to  triumph  over  yourself  and  your  own  pre- 
judices in  this  matter  between  a  former  but  wronged  officer  of  the 
Army  and  yourself  in  your  high  position  as  head  of  the  War  De- 
partment is  the  only  revenge  sought  by, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES, 
Late  Capt.  Tenth  Cav.  and  Bvt.  Maj.,  U.  S.  A. 

February  21. 

W7ent  to  the  Capitol  and  saw  Senator  Spencer,  who  managed  to 
get  my  bill  referred  to  him  by  General  Logan  for  investigation. 

February  22. 

This  being  General  Washington's  birthday,  the  President  and 
Congress  ordered  that  it  be  observed  as  a  holiday.  The  Fifth 
Maryland  from  Baltimore  was  received  by  Col.  William  G.  Moore 
of  the  Washington  Light  Infantry,  when  they  had  a  parade.  This 
was  a  grand  day  for  Washington.  Colonel  Moore  is  a  leading 
citizen  and  considered  one  of  the  most  popular  gentlemen  in  the 
District. 


403 

February  23. 

After  breakfast  I  called  on  General  Morey  and  drove  with  him 
to  the  House.  We  saw  Senator  Spencer,  who  told  me  that  Gen- 
eral Logan  had  requested  him  to  make  an  adverse  report  on  my 
bill.  Saw  Senator  Clayton,  who  has  also  been  prejudiced,  but 
would  not  say  on  what  ground.  I  then  went  to  the  War  Depart- 
ment and  obtained  court-martial's  orders  in  Majors  Cox  and  Gra- 
ham's cases.  General  Townsend  seemed  to  be  under  Belknap's 
orders,  treating  me  very  coldly,  although  he  had  always  been 
friendly  heretofore.  He  declined  to  give  me  any  information  that 
would  be  of  advantage  to  me. 

February  24. 

Saw  General  Glover  again  today,  who  told  me  that  he  had  failed 
to  get  all  the  information  in  my  behalf  he  wished,  but  is  still  try- 
ing to  get  it.  Had  a  long  talk  with  Senator  Merriam  of  North 
Carolina,  who  is  anxious  to  procure  a  house.  While  showing 
Senators  and  members  houses  I  have  a  good  opportunity  of  ex- 
plaining my  case  to  them. 

February  26. 

I  met  Senator  Merriam  and  Governor  Scales  of  North  Carolina 
in  the  Senate  chamber  at  IT  A.  M.  They  are  both  very  much  in- 
terested in  my  behalf. 

March  2. 

Called  on  Senator  Merriam  and  Governor  Scales  this  morning, 
and  they  informed  me  that  Mr.  Clymer  was  very  anxious  to  save 
Belknap  from  impeachment.  He  called  on  Belknap  last  evening 
with  the  information  that  the  charges  I  had  made  were  so  strong 
that  if  he  appeared  before  his  committee  he  would  have  to  be  im- 
peached, and  in  order  to  save  impeachment  he  advised  him  to 
tender  his  resignation  as  promptly  as  possible.  Upon  Mr.  Cly- 
mer's  advice  Belknap  went  to  President  Grant  this  morning  be- 
fore 9  o'clock  and  tendered  his  resignation  as  Secretary  of  War. 
Great  excitement  prevails  this  evening  all  over  the  city,  and  I  have 
been  congratulated  by  hundreds  of  people  during  the  afternoon, 
who  give  me  the  credit  for  exposing  him. 

March  3. 

Last  evening  I  went  around  to  the  hotels  to  see  several  of  my 
friends,  and  there  was  a  general  handshaking  by  almost  everyone 
except  Belknap's  friends.  'They  looked  daggers  at  me  and,  from 
their  appearance,  would  like  to  have  seen  me  quartered. 


404 


Of  the  sensation  I  cannot  better  convey  an  idea  than  through 
comments  of  the  press  : 

THE    CREDIT    OF    TPIE    EEL  KNAP    EXPOSURE. 

(The  Alexandria  Sentinel.) 

We  have  ceased  to  be  amazed  at  the  discovery  of  speculations  and 
dishonesty  in  officials,  or  the  shameful  disclosures  of  the  venality 
and  indecency  which  has  so  long-  disgraced  the  War  Office  would 
strike  us  with  terrible  force.  As  it  is,  we  can  only  give  the  dis- 
graceful details  as  they  are  developed  and  conjure  our  citizens  to 
strive,  by  every  man's  devotion  personally,  as  far  as  he  can  by 
voice  and  vote  and  in  every  possible  way,  to  bring  forward' the 
happy  day  when  no  man  will  dare  to  face  the  indignant  frost  of 
public  opinion  with  a  stain  of  official  dishonor  on  his  brow  and 
when  such  a  new  era  shall  prevail  in  politics  as  that  the  schemers 
and  the  intriguers  may  no  longer  be  able  to  lure  the  people  into 
evil  ways  and  the  support  of  unworthy  men. 

Having  some  time  since  referred  to^the  charges  of  Col  Geo  A 
Armes  against  Secretary  Belknap  (of  which  we  had  heard  an  in- 
timation) in  terms  of  ridicule  as  without  any  foundation,  we  hasten 
now  to  make  the  amends  to  the  gentleman  by  whose  enero-y  and 
courage  this  mass  of  sordid  corruption  has  been  removed  Against 
the  might  of  authority  and  the  damning  suspicions  which  from  his 
own  position  his  efforts  naturally  drew  upon  himself  he  has  tri- 
umphed bravely  and  stands  vindicated  and  meriting  the  thanks  of 
the  country.  We  give  the  following  statement  from  the  Wash- 
ington Tribune: 

"The  investigation  into  the  subject  is  said  to  have  originated  in 
the  following  manner:  B.  B.  Lewis,  a  member  of  Congress  from 
Alabama,  was  in  search  of  a  house  in  the  early  part  of  the  session 

d  was  referred  to  Col.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  a  real-estate  agent  of  this 

"During  the  negotiations  for  the  house  Armes  told  Lewis  that 
he  was  formerly  in  the  Army  and  was  in  possession  of  facts  against 
Belknap  that  would  force  him  to  resign  his  position  as  Secretary 
He  said  that  he  had  been  dismissed  from  the  Army  on  account  of 
the  personal  enmity  of  Belknap,  and  that  if  some  member  of  Con- 
gress would  take  hold  and  help  him  he  would  in  sixty  davs  force 
Belknap  to  leave  his  position. 

"Lewis  tendered  his  services  and  laid  the  matter  before  Mr 
Randall,  who  advised  that  the  matter  be  laid  before  Mr  Clymer  for 
his  committee  to  unearth.  Armes  furnished  a  list  of  witnesses 
but  as  they  testified  to  but  a  few  facts,  Mr.  Clymer  began  to  suspect 
that  he  was  dealing  with  them  in  bad  faith,  especiallv  as  when 
Belknap  was  notified  of  the  matter  he  informed  them  that  Armes 
had  offered,  rf  he  could  be  reinstated  in  the  Army  and  certain 
r  conditions  were  complied  with,  that  he  would  drop  the 
matter.  This  looked  a  little  like  blackmail,  but  Mr.  Lewis  urged 


405 

that  inasmuch  as  a  list  of  witnesses  had  been  furnished  by  Armes 
it  would  be  best  to  summon  them  all  and  see  what  there  was  in  it~ 
Among  the  witnesses  was  Mr.  Marsh,  and  after  some  difficulty 
his  attendance  was  secured  with  the  result  already  known  to  the 
world. 

"Armes  has  had  a  grievance  for  half  a  dozen  years.  He  comes 
from  Fairfax  county,  Virginia;  was  an  officer  in  the  volunteer 
service  during  the  war  and  was  afterward  appointed  in  the  regular 
Army  and  was  assigned  to  duty  on  the  frontier  and  distinguished 
himself  and  was  promoted  for  it  in  a  light  with  the  Indians.  He 
preferred  charges  against  some  of  his  superior  officers,  when  they 
turned  around  and  preferred  charges  against  him,  and  with  the 
aid,  as  he  alleges,  of  Secretary  Belknap  got  him  dismissed.  He, 
however,  followed  up  his  charges  against  the  officers,  got  them 
convicted,  and  two  of  them  are  now  serving  out  sentences  in 
prison  on  this  account,  and  every  session  of  Congress  since  he  has 
been  before  both  houses  for  redress,  and  he  charges  that  the 
Secretary  of  War  has  opposed  him  at  every  step. 

"By  perseverance  he  has,  however,  carried  all  his  points  except 
being  restored  to  the  Army,  and  only  a  couple  of  weeks  ago  Sen- 
ator Spencer  introduced  into  the  Senate  a  bill  for  that  purpose. 
He  has  had  many  bitter  personal  wordy  altercations  with  the  Sec- 
retary; lias  defied  him,  and  in  language  more  forcible  than  polite 
has  informed  him  that  he  would  yet  defeat  him  and  get  his  rights. 

"lie  seems  to  have  accomplished  all  but  getting  his  own  rights, 
and  he  is  now  in  a  fair  way  to  accomplish  that." 

March  4. 

While  at  the  Ebbitt  House  and  Willard's  Hotel  last  night  I  was 
the  subject  of  attraction  and  pointed  out  by  almost  everyone  as 
having  taken  the  most  conspicuous  part  in  the  case  of  Belknap's 
downfall.  Was  up  to  the  Capitol  today;  had  quite  a  talk  with 
General  Glover,  who  is  going  to  make  a  favorable  report  on  my 
bill. 

March  5. 

The  Sunday  Capital  came  out  in  a  terrible  attack  upon  me  this 
morning,  but  it  did  not  prevent  me  from  attending  St.  Matthew's 
Church  with  Lucy.  After  the  services  I  called  upon  Colonel  Don 
Piat,  proprietor  and  editor  of  that  paper.  After  a  short  interview 
he  seemed  very  sorry  that  he  had  reflected  upon  me,  and  promised 
to  make  a  correction  in  his  next  issue. 

Baltimore,  Md.,  March  7. 

I  came  over  here  this  morning  after  taking  General  Glover  to 
the  Capitol  and  fixed  up  some  press  dispatches  in  which  I  had 


406 

been  misrepresented  by  my  enemies,  writing  a  long  letter  of  ex- 
planation and  stating  the  facts  about  Belknap,  etc.  I  met  Mr. 
Hardesty,  with  whom  I  am  interested  in  some  large  transactions 
in  this  city,  and  closed  one  in  the  purchase  of  four  houses  for 
myself. 

March  9. 

Spent  most  of  the  day  at  the  Capitol  and  gave  General  Robbins 
of  Clymer's  committtee  a  list  of  names  of  post-traders  and  other 
witnesses  in  the  Belknap  case,  as  they  have  decided  that  the  mat- 
ter must  be  exposed,  and  proposed  to  bring  it  up  in  spite  of  Mr. 
Clymer  trying  to  make  Belknap  believe  that  if  he  resigned  it 
would  prevent  his  exposure. 


407 

March  13. 

The  first  thing  this  A.  M.  called  on  General  Glover  at  his  house 
and  drove  with  him  up  to  the  Capitol,  where  I  remained  several 
hours  talking  with  members  and  Senators  in  regard  to  my 
matters. 

March  18. 

I  met  Mr.  Meeker  of  the  New  York  Herald  at  Willard's,  who 
invited  me  to  an  oyster  supper.  We  then  fixed  up  a  letter  for 
General  Coburn,  which  was  signed  by  quite  a  number  of  my 
friends. 

March  20. 

Spent  last  evening  with  ex-Governor  Crawford  of  Kansas  and 
Colonel  Moonlight,  and  today  Mr.  Ellis  of  Louisiana  called  with 
me  at  the  War  Department,  where  we  met  Judge  Taft,  who  read 
Senator  Sherman's  letter  with  great  interest  and  treated  me  as  if 
I  had  been  his  own  son,  assuring  me  that  anything  he  could  pos- 
sibly do  in  my  behalf  he  would  do. 

March  21. 

Was  up  to  the  Capitol  today  and  had  a  short  talk  with  Mr. 
Clymer,  who  was  very  cool  because  I  had  given  further  informa- 
tion to  get  Belknap  before  the  committee. 

March  22. 

Was  with  General  Glover  until  almost  12  o'clock  last  evening, 
and  again  met  him  at  the  Capitol  today.  He  fixed  next  Friday 
for  bringing  my  bill  before  his  committee,  having  made  a  favora- 
ble report  on  it. 

March  25. 

Last  evening  I  invited  General  Glover  to  an  oyster  supper, 
where  we  went  all  through  my  case,  and  today  we  brought  up  the 
report  before  General  Banning,  who  agrees  to  bring  it  before  the 
full  committee  at  his  first  opportunity.  » 

Col.  Lewis  Merrill,  one  of  my  worst  enemies,  is  here  with  Bel- 
knap  working  to  defeat  me. 

March  29. 

Called  on  General  Terry  last  evening  and  made  an  appointment 
with  him  in  regard  to  Colonel  Merrill ;  also  saw  Senator  Bayard, 
who  gave  me  some  points  in  the  Belknap  matter. 

March  30. 

Called  at  the  Arlington  last  evening,  where  T  had  a  long  talk 
with  General  Custer.  Was  up  to  the  Capitol  and  on  the  floor  of 


408 

the  House.  Saw  several  others  and  talked  with  a  number  of 
friends,  who  are  doing  what  they  can  on  my  bill  and  about  in- 
vestigating Colonel  Merrill. 

March  31. 

General  Custer  and  I  went  to  the  Military  Committee  room, 
where  we  had  a  discussion  with  the  members  of  the  committee  in 
relation  to  the  Merrill  charges. 

April  i. 

Had  a  long  talk  with  General  Custer  today.  He,  as  well  as  my- 
self, is  very  anxious  to  have  Colonel  Merrill  brought  to  trial,  but 
his  political  friends  appear  to  be  shielding  him. 

April  12. 

While  at  the  Capitol  today  Senator  William  Stewart  of  Nevada 
put  his  castle  in  my  charge  with  the  request  that  I  have  it  fixed 
up  and  procure  him  a  good  tenant  or  purchaser. 

April  20. 

I  rented  Mr.  Franklin's  house  on  C  street  today.  Spent  some 
time  last  evening  with  General  Boynton,  who  is  one  of  my  friends. 
Senator  Stewart  and  I  called  at  the  War  Department.  The  Sec- 
retary of  War  got  in  my  park  phaeton  and  we  drove  to  the  castle. 
Mrs.  Taft  is  very  much  pleased  with  it,  and  there  is  no  doubt  but 
that  negotiations  will  soon  be  made. 

April  28. 

After  leaving  Lucy  last  evening  I  called  on  Dr.  Brockenboro 
of  St.  Louis  and  Mr.  Lloyd  Williams  of  Baltimore.  Saw  Senator 
Spencer  and  Judge  Poland.  Appeared  before  the  Military  Com- 
mittee of  the  House,  and  after  explaining  matters,  answered  all 
questions.  The  case  was  closed,  Glover's  report  adopted,  and 
the  bill  will  now  go  on  the  House  calendar. 

May  15. 

While  at  the  Capitol  today  I  obtained  a  season  pass  to  visit  the 
floor  whenever  I  wished.  Remained  there  two  hours,  hoping  my 
bill  would  be  called  up. 

May  22. 

Met  Governor  Walker  at  the  Capitol,  who  made  me  an  offer  for 
the  Harrington  house,  owned  by  Governor  Sheppard,  which  offer 
the  latter  accepted. 

May  23. 

Called  on  Wedderburn,  who  went  to  Willard's  with  me  to  see 
Governor  Walker,  and  we  all  called  on  Governor  Sheppard,  who 


40Q 

ordered  an  abstract  made.     I  am  about  to  make  an  exchange 
for  Judge  Helmick's  house  on  K  street. 

May  30. 

While  at  Willard's  last  evening  I  was  informed  that  the  Senate 
had  decided  by  eight  majority  to  try  Belknap.  This  being  Deco- 
ration Day,  the  city  is  crowded,  and  thousands  have  gone  to  Ar- 
lington and  other  cemeteries  to  take  part  in  the  ceremonies. 

Mr.  Glover,  from  the  Committee  on  Military  Affairs,  reported 
the  following  bill  as  a  substitute  for  the  bill  H.  R.  906:  "A  bill  for 
the  restoration  of  George  A.  Armes  to  the  rank  of  Captain  in  the 
cavalry  arm  of  the  service." 

House  of  Representatives,  Forty-fourth  Congress,  First  Session, 

Report  No.  620. 

GEORGE  A.  ARMES. 

June  i,  1876. — Committed  to  a  Committee  of  the  Whole  House 
and  ordered  to  be  printed. 

Mr.  Glover,  from  the  Committee  on  Military  Affairs,  submitted 
the  following  report  (to  accompany  H.  R.  3634): 

The  Committee  on  Military  Affairs,  to  whom  was  referred  the 
bill  (H.  R.  906)  for  the  restoration  of  George  A.  Armes  to  the 
Army,  with  the  rank  of  Captain,  have  had  the  same  under  con- 
sideration, and  beg  to  submit  the  following  report: 

The  records  of  the  War  Deartment  show  the  following  facts: 
That  George  A.  Armes  entered  the  military  service  of  the  United 
States  as  a  private  in  Company  B,  Sixteenth  Regiment  Virginia 
Volunteer  Infantry,  September  i,  1862;  was  appointed  Second 
Lieutenant  in  the  same  regiment  December  8,  1862,  and  was  ap- 
pointed Captain  in  the  Second  Regiment  New  York  Artillery 
( )ctober,  1864.  On  the  I4th  of  December,  1864,  he  was  men- 
tioned in  "general  orders"  for  meritorious  conduct  by  General 
Miles  for  leading  the  charge  at  Hatcher's  Run,  Virginia.  Upon 
the  recommendation  of  Generals  Hancock,  Auger,  Griffin,  Mott, 
Miles  and  Pierce  he  was  appointed  Second  Lieutenant  in  the 
Second  United  States  Cavalry.  Soon  after  he  was  appointed  Cap- 
tain in  the  Tenth  Linked  States  Cavalry,  and  his  commission  was 
dated  back,  upon  the  recommendation  of  Gen.  Philip  St.  George 
Cooke,  with  the  approval  of  Gen.  U.  S.  Grant,  as  a  recognition  of 
merit.  March  2,  1867,  he  was  breveted  Major  in  the  regular  Army 
for  gallant  services,  having  been  previously  breveted  Major  of 
Volunteers. 

On  the  1 2th  of  November,  1866,  the  following  general  order 
was  issued: 


410 

Headquarters  Department  of  the  Platte, 

Omaha,  Neb.,  November  12,  1866. 
(General  Order  No.  20.) 

The  Commanding  Geneiai  announces  to  the  Department  that 
Lieut,  deo.  A.  Armes,  Second  United  States  Cavalry,  being  sent 
with  twenty-five  men  of  his  regiment  from  Fort  Sedgwick  October 
23  in  pusuit  of  a  war  party  of  Sioux  Indians  which  had  driven  oft" 
the  previous  day  several  hundred  head  of  stock,  found  and  fol- 
lowed their  trail,  under  the  difficulties  of  crossing  two  wide  rivers, 
forks  of  the  Platte,  and  of  darkness,  ninety-eight  miles,  from  5 
o'clock  A.  M.  to  n  o'clock  P.  M. ;  then  he  surprised  the  party, 
instantly  attacked,  killed  and  wounded  nearly  all  their  superior 
numbers,  captured  twenty-two  Indian  horses,  burned  their  camp 
and  brought  off  safely  most  of  their  stolen  stock.  Thus  the  young- 
officer  has  set  a  fine  example  to  the  Department  of  overcoming 
difficulties  that  would  have  discouraged  and  stopped  many  with- 
out loss  of  credit,  of  bold  determination  to  succeed  and  of  striking 
without  stopping  to  count  his  enemies,  and  has  presented  to  the 
profession  perhaps  the  greatest  cavalry  feat  heretofore  recorded. 
By  order  of  Brevet  Major-General  Cooke: 

H.  G.  LITCHFIELD, 

Brvt.  Maj.,  U.  S.  A.,  Aid-de-Camp,  Acting  Asst.  Adjt.-Gen. 
On  the  20th  of  August,  1867,  he  was  recommended  by  Gen- 
erals Sherman  and  Hancock  for  the  brevet  of  Lieutenant-Colonel 
for  hard  and  heroic  services  against  the  Indians,  by  whom  he  was 
wounded  during  an  engagement. 

This  is  only  a  portion  of  the  very  meritorious  and  gallant  con- 
duct of  this  young  officer  to  this  date  in  his  military  history,  which 
seems  to  have  challenged  almost  the  universal  respect  and  confi- 
dence of  the  officers  under  whom  he  .served. 

In  the  Forty-Fourth  Congress,  on  June  i,  1876,  Mr.  Glover 
made  another  favorable  report. 

June  3. 

After  breakfast  called  on  Dom  Pedro  of  Brazil  at  the  Arlington 
Hotel  and  made  an  arrangement  to  take  a  drive. 

June  n. 

Lucy  went  to  St.  Patrick's  Church  alone  this  A.  M.  for  the  first 
time  since  we  have  been  married.  Shortly  after  she  left  I  hap- 
pened to  look  out  of  my  window  and  saw^  a  gentleman  suddenly 
drop  down.  I  ran  across  to  the  Congregational  Church  and 
found  it  to  be  Mr.  James  G.  Blaine.  His  wife  and  little  girl  were 
standing  over  him.  He  appeared  to  be  perfectly  dead.  I  rushed 
back  across  the  street  and  brought  a  pitcher  of  ice  water  and  a 
napkin,  which  I  laid  over  his  head.  I  then  called  a  'bus,  and  three 
gentlemen  helped  to  lift  him  in  it.  We  then  started  for  his  house 


on  Fifteenth  street.  Mrs.  Elaine  took  his  head  in  her  lap  as  he  lay 
stretched  out  on  the  long  seat.  Before  reaching  the  house  I  in- 
quired who  her  physician  was,  and  she  replied,  "Dr.  Pope."  I  im- 
mediately requested  her  little  girl  to  go  after  him,  and  by  the  time 
we  arrived  at  the  house  Dr.  Pope  came  in,  and  we  laid  Mr.  Elaine 
out  on  the  parlor  floor.  As  the  doctor  did  not  appear  to  revive 
him,  I  suggested  that  I  call  on  Surgeon- General  Barnes,  which 
Mrs.  Elaine  consented  to.  T  discovered  General  Whittlesey's  car- 
riage at  the  door,  which  he  loaned  me  to  go  after  the  Surgeon- 
General.  Not  rinding  General  Barnes  at  his  house,  I  drove  to  his 
office,  where  I  was  informed  by  a  messenger  that  he  had  just  gone 
to  Epiphany  Church.  Driving  there,  I  sent  the  usher  to  the  front 
seat  with  the  information  that  a  gentleman  wished  to  see  him  im- 
mediately. He  came  out,  when  I  explained  what  I  wanted.  He 
quickly  jumped  into  the  carriage,  and  we  drove  in  a  gallop  to  Mr. 
Blaine's  house,  where  he  took  charge  of  the  case.  There  was 
soon  great  excitement;  hundreds  of  people  came  to  the  house. 
The  news  of  his  collapse  spread  like  wildfire  all  over  the  city.  It 
was  some  time  before  he  was  conscious.  He  seemed  perfectly 
lifeless.  Mrs.  Elaine  appreciated  my  help  very  much. 


Blaine's  Attack  of  Vertigo. 


412 

June  14. 

While  talking  with  Governor  Sheppard  today  he  suggested  that 
I  sell  the  house  now  occupied  by  Belknap. 

June  17. 

Waited  on  the  floor  of  the  House  for  some  time  hoping  my  bill 
would  be  reached  on  the  calendar,  but  had  to  come  away  dis- 
couraged. 

June  24. 

Took  lunch  at  the  Capitol  today  with  Senator  Spencer,  who  has 
agreed  to  make  a  report  in  my  case  on  Monday  if  he  can,  and  this 
evening  I  called  on  Mrs.  General  Barry,  accompanied  by  the 
Senator. 

July   i i . 

Was  up  to  the  Senate  again  today,  but  unable  to  get  my  case 
called  up.  Mr.  Gobright  assisted  me  to  draw  up  a  nice  letter  at 
our  meeting  at  the  National  Hotel  last  evening  to  send  to  Mrs. 
Custer  regarding  a  resolution  on  the  death  of  General  Custer. 

July   12. 

We  called  another  meeting  last  evening  at  the  National  Hotel 
and  appointed  a  full  committee  to  solicit  subscriptions  for  a  Cus- 
ter monument.  Major  Duggan  acted  as  chairman  in  the  absence 
of  Major  Finley. 

July   19. 

While  at  the  Capitol  today  1  had  a  very  long  talk  with  Gen.  Joe 
Blackburn,  who  has  taken  a  great  interest  in  exposing  the  frauds 
of  Belknap.  If  it  had  not  been  for  him  it  is  likely  the  exposures 
would  not  have  been  made  so  public.  He  is  an  honest  and  up- 
right man,  and  one  who  ought  to  be  returned  by  his  constituents 
as  long  as  he  lives. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  August  i. 

Upon  my  return  I  called  on  Governor  Sheppard,  who  informed 
me  that  he  had  not  seen  Governor  Walker.  I  immediately  called 
on  the  latter  at  Willard's  and  closed  a  trade  with  Governor  Shep- 
pard for  the  Belknap  house. 

August  IT. 

While  at  the  Capitol  today  I  had  a  pretty  spicy  time  with  Sen- 
ator Logan.  Senator  Spencer  took  my  part,  but  was  unable  to 
have  my  bill  brought  up  before  the  committee. 


August  12. 

Walked  home  with  Senator  Logan  last  night,  and  he  finally 
admitted  before  reaching  the  house  that  Belknap  had  insisted  on 
his  not  allowing  my  bill  to  go  through  and  that  he  could  not  do 
anything  in  my  favor,  so  I  now  see  I  cannot  rely  upon  him  for 
support.  Called  on  Senators  Clayton  and  Spencer  today,  who 
finally  admitted  it  was  impossible  to  get  the  bill  through  this  ses- 
sion against  General  Logan's  opposition.  During  the  day  deeds 
u  ere  passed  between  Governor  Sheppard  and  Governor  Walker 
for  the  Belknap  house ;  consideration,  $85,000. 

August  13. 

While  with  Governor  Walker  last  evening  he  handed  me  a 
check  for  $350  as  compensation  for  working  in  his  property  in 
exchange  for  the  Belknap  house. 

September  2. 

Called  with  Mr.  E.  M.  Smith  on  the  Japanese  minister,  who 
went  with  us  to  look  at  Mr.  Smith's  house,  which  he  has  agreed 
to  take  as  soon  as  the  papers  are  made  out.  Mr.  Smith  agrees  to 
pay  me  $300  for  my  part  in  the  transaction. 

September  16. 

Called  on  Governor  Sheppard  today,  who  handed  me  a  check 
rfor  $175  on  account,  also  a  delicious  cigar,  and  seemed  to  take  an 
appreciative  interest  in  what  1  had  done  in  regard  to  his  real- 
estate  matters. 

In  conversation  with  Governor  Sheppard  in  regard  to  giving 
Governor  Walker  possession  of  his  house  occupied  by  Belknap, 
I  shall  never  forget  Sheppard's  smile  when  I  suggested  that  I 
notify  Belknap  to  vacate  the  house.  The  Governor  remarked, 
". \rmes,  I  will  try  to  get  somebody  else  to  do  that,  as  I  think  you 
have  done  your  share.  You  routed  him  out  of  his  office,  and  not 
being  satisfied  with  that,  you  have  sold  his  house  over  his  head, 
and  under  the  circumstances  I  do  not  think  you  had  better  put 
him  out  of  the  house.  I  will  get  somebody  else  to  see  him  about 
getting  possession."  I  have  found  him  to  be  one  of  the  ablest 
business  men  I  ever  had  any  dealings  with,  and  we  would  soon 
have  one  of  the  grandest  cities  in  the  world  with  more  men  like 
him. 


414 

October  14. 

General  Tompkins  came  in  from  Rockville  today  and  gave  me 
$2500  in  part  payment  of  the  Twenty-first  street  property. 

October  15. 

I  had  a  very  pleasant  interview  with  Attorney-General  Wil- 
liams, who  is  very  anxious  for  me  to  sell  or  lease  his  house  on 
Rhode  Island  avenue.  I  took  the  Japanese  minister  through 
it.  but  he  decided  it  was  too  large  for  him.  Mrs.  McFarland  au- 
thorized me  to  lease  her  house  for  $1500  a  year. 

December  16. 

Last  night  while  at  the  Ebbitt  House  one  of  my  Virginia  friends, 
Col.  John  Fairfax,  was  attacked  by  the  ex-doorkeeper  of  the 
House,  Snell,  and  stabbed  in  the  neck  very  badly.  I  secured  a 
room,  helped  to  carry  him  there  and  sent  for  a  doctor,  who  de- 
cided that  it  would  not  be  very  serious,  although  the  injured  man 
would  be  laid  up  for  some  time. 

December  17. 

Spent  several  hours  at  the  Ebbitt  House  today  with  Colonel 
Fairfax  doing  what  I  could  for  him.  His  son  came  over  from  Bal- 
timore and  has  full  charge.  The  doctor  thinks  he  will  be  all  right 
in  a  few  days. 

December  29. 

Called  to  see  General  Banning  last  evening  at  the  Riggs  House, 
and  he  agreed  to  do  everything  he  possibly  could  for  me  when 
Congress  met.  Met  Colonel  Maish  of  Pennsylvania,  who  is  also 
one  of  my  best  friends. 

December  31. 

T  have  been  settling  up  my  accounts  and  affairs  during  the  day 

for  the  year,  and  am  very  much  disappointed  in  not  having  my 

11  passed,  Ini t  my  chances  are  very  favorable  for  next  year,  hav- 

r  been  successful  in  getting  rid  of  several  of  my  enemies,  who, 

ter  investigation,  have  been  found  guilty  and  disposed  of. 


CHAPTER  XV. 

January  i,  1877. 

Lucy  and  I  started  the  new  year  with  another  addition  to  the 
family,  which  now  consists  of  four.  After  breakfast  I  ordered  my 
carriage  and  invited  Colonel  Maish,  General  Williams  and  Mr. 
Corcoran  to  make  New  Year's  calls.  We  had  seventy-three 
names  on  our  list,  but  stopped  at  twenty-five,  my  usual  friends. 

January  6,  1877. 

Yesterday  afternoon  General  Banning-  called  up  my  bill  in  the 
House.  Mr.  Conger  of  Michigan  objected  and  threw  it  out  for 
the  time,  but  Colonel  Maish  and  Colonel  Phillips  finally  got  him 
to  withdraw  his  objections,  when  General  Garfield  and  Mr.  Wil- 
son of  Iowa  killed  it  for  the  day. 

January  13,  1877. 

Took  a  lot  of  papers  in  my  military  case  last  evening  to  Senator 
Cockrell,  who  looked  through  some  of  them,  requesting  me  to 
call  and  see  him  again  Monday  evening. 

January  16,  1877. 

Senator  Cockrell  gave  me  two  hours  of  his  time  last  evening 
going  through  my  papers.  Went  to  the  Capitol  yesterday  and 
saw  several  members  and  Senators  in  regard  to  my  bill. 

January  23,  1877. 

Called  on  Senator  Cockrell  last  evening,  and  we  went  to  the 
Arlington,  where  we  met  Senator  Randolph,  when  he  agreed  to 
help  all  he  could  on  my  case.  Saw  Senator  Spencer  today,  who 
told  me  he  was  unable  to  have  the  bill  brought  up. 

January  24,  1877. 

Was  on  the  floor  of  the  House  today  and  tried  to  get  General 
Glover  to  bring  up  my  case  ;  also  had  quite  a  talk  with  J.  J.  Noah, 
who  is  clerk  of  the  Senate  Military  Committee  and  a  great  friend 
of  mine. 


416 

January  27,   1877. 

Called  on  Secretary  of  War  Taft  today,  who  assured  me  he 
would  do  all  he  could  in  my  behalf. 


February  1 3, 

Visited  the  Capitol  again  today  and  did  my  best  to  have  the 
Senator  call  up  my  bill,  but  he  said  it  was  impossible  to  do  so  at 
present. 

February  22,  1877. 

Spent  last  evening-  with  Gen.  Innes  Palmer,  Colonel  of  my  old 
regiment,  Second  Cavalry,  who  has  taken  a  great  interest  in  my 
behalf  and  put  himself  on  record  as  an  honest  and  fair-minded 
man. 

March  2,  1877. 

I  have  been  on  the  floor  of  the  House  all  day,  and  this  after- 
noon my  bill  was  called  up  under  a  suspension  of  the  rules.  After 
a  short  discussion  the  yeas  and  nays  were  called,  and  it  came 
within  eight  of  passing.  Mr.  Garfield,  in  the  interest  of  Belknap 
and  the  War  Department,  is  doing  all  he  can  to  kill  it. 

Saturday,  March  3,  1877. 

I  went  to  the  House  again  this  morning  and  got  some  twenty- 
five  or  thirty  members  interested  in  my  bill.  It  was  again  brought 
up  and  defeated  by  only  one  vote  in  spite  of  Mr.  Garfield's  doing- 
all  he  could  to  defeat  it.  General  Glover  still  sticks  to  me,  with 
Mr.  Hamilton,  Colonel  Maish  and  many  others. 

March  4,  1877. 

After  dinner  last  evening  T  went  back  to  the  Capitol  and  got 
Hon.  Henry  Watterson  of  Kentucky  interested.  After  explain- 
ing the  situation  he  put  his  hand  on  my  shoulder  and  said, 
"Armes,  T  think  T  can  manage  Mr.  Garfield  all  right."  He  imme- 
diately went  on  to  the  House  floor  and  invited  Mr.  Garfield  over 
to  the  Senate  restaurant,  where  he  got  into  a  very  interesting  con- 
versation, made  more  so  by  disposing  of  several  bottles  of  cham- 


417 


Watterson  Entertaining  Garfield. 


•in/" 


pagne  ere  they  were  through.  During"  his  absence  my  friends 
on  the  floor  of  the  House  had  my  bill  brought  up,  and  it  passed 
unanimously  at  2  o'clock  this  A.  M.  I  shall  always  be  indebted 
to  Mr.  Watterson  of  Kentucky,  Hon.  Carter  Harrison  of  Chicago, 
Colonel  Glover,  Colonel  Maish,  Randolph  Tucker  and  General 
Banning  for  their  efforts. 

The  following  is  a  reply  to  my  letter  in  regard  to  what  took 
place  during  the  passage  of  the  bill : 


418 


Louisville  .October  10,  1899, 


%  Dear  Major  Armes; 

%  share  in  passing  your  bill  through  the  House 

was  very  slight  and  is  hardly  worth  particular  mention.  It  consisted 
chiefly  of  "holding"  Gen.  Garfield  whilst  your  friends  "skinned"  the 
measure  of  your  restoration.  The  process  was  exceeding  simple.  I 
asked  Gen.  Garfield  to  join  me  and  our  friend  John  Randolph  Tucker 
at  luncheon  in  the  Senate  Restaurant  on  the  other  side  of  the  Capitol, 
an  invitation  Gen.  Garfield  was  not  the  man  to  decline.  We  lunched 
abundantly,  we  lunched  copiously,  and  we  lunched  protractedly.  When 
we  got  back  to  the  House  your  bill  had  passed.  It  had  passed  during 
our  absence.  Gen.  Garfield  accepted  the  result  with  Christian  re- 
signation and  afterwards  in  a  moment  of  effusion  assured  me  that  he 
was  glad  I  had  taken  advantage  of  his  love  of  good  company  and  good 
living.  He  was  as  you  know  a  man  entirely  free  from  sustained  male- 
volence, and  in  your  case  I  think  had  been  set  upon  by  some  outside 
procure  foreign  to  any  real  feeling  of  his  own. 


Major  George  A.Armes, 

1405  F  Street, 

Washington,  D.C. 


March  5,  1877. 

I  was  greatly  disappointed  in  General  Grant's  declining  to  sign 
my  bill,  which  had  passed  the  House  and  Senate,  and  only  lacked 
his  signature  to  make  it  a  law,  restoring  me  to  my  full  rank  on 
the  active  list,  and  when  he  came  out  of  the  room  known  as  the 
President's  room  at  the  Capitol  I  informed  him  that  whoever  had 
induced  him  not  to  sign  it  had  willfully  lied  and  misrepresented 
me,  and  he  only  remarked  that  it  was  too  late  now,  that  he  was  no 
longer  President. 

I  spent  a  portion  of  last  evening  with  General  Logan,  who  had 
a  large  number  of  friends  with  him  talking  about  the  new  Cabinet. 
He  expressed  himself  as  disappointed  at  not  being  made  Secre- 
tary of  War,  and  I  am  glad  he  was  not,  because  he  has  not  taken 
the  interest  he  should  in  my  case. 

It  may  not  be  out  of  place  in  this  connection  to  supply  the 
reader  with  a  few  letters  and  documents  bearing  on  the  subject  of 
my  bill : 

Washington,  D.  C,  January  29,  1877. 
Gen.  U.  S.  Grant, 

President  of  the  United  States: 

Sir — I  am  only  one  of  the  many  who  have  received  disgrace  and 
punishment  through  the  misrepresentations  of  persons  unworthy 
of  confidence,  and  I  respectfully  call  your  attention  to  the  fact  that 
it  is  still  in  your  power,  and  will  be  for  a  few  days  longer,  to  mend 
a  wrong  that  has  caused  me  to  suffer  more  than  I  can  express.  The 
records  of  the  War  Department  will  show  that  I  always  fulfilled 
my  duty  with  satisfaction  to  my  superior  officers,  and  the  troubles 
that  I  had,  in  every  instance,  were  brought  about  by  Army  officers 
unworthy  of  the  name,  some  of  whom  have  already  been  justly 
convicted. 

And  now,  Mr.  President,  I  again  submit  my  case,  trusting  that 
you  will  grant  me  a  hearing  and  release  me  from  the  burden  of  an 
unjust  sentence. 

Respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Late  Captain,  U.  S.  A. 
Dear  General  Banning: 

Can  you  not,  without  much  trouble,  get  Captain  Armes'  bill  up? 
I  can  send  you  report,  and  it -does  appear  to  me  that  some  injustice 
was  done  the  Captain.  This  is  his  last  chance  this  year,  and  I  feel 
that  if  I  can  do  anything  to  assist  him  I  ought  to  do  so.  Of  course, 
I  know  how  busy  you  might  be  at  this  time,  but  if  you  can  find  time 
to  say  a  word  in  this  case  I  hope  you  will  do  so. 
Very  truly,  yours, 

(Signed)        I.  N.  PALMER, 


420 
Washington,  D.  C,  March  22,  1877. 


Hon.  Geo.  W.  McCrary, 

Secretary  of  War: 

Sir— I  have  the  honor  to  request  that  the  Judge  Advocate  Gen- 
eral of  the  Army  be  authorized  to  reopen  and  report  on  the  merits 
of  my  case  as  soon  as  convenient,  and  that  I  may  be  permitted  to 
appear  before  him  with  additional  evidence. 
Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Late  Captain,  U.  S.  A. 

War  Department,  March  26,  1877. 

Respectfully  referred  to  the  Judge  Advocate  General  of  the 
Army  for  his  opinion  as  to  whether  a  reopening  of  the  case  would 
be  in  accordance  with  established  usage,  and  if  so,  whether  it  is 
desirable  in  this  case. 

(Signed)         GEO.  W.  McCRARY, 

Secretary  of  War. 

Bureau  of  Military  Justice,  March  27,  1877. 

Respectfully  returned  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  with  opinion 
that  unless  the  applicant  shall  produce  written  evidence  in  regard 
to  the  merits  of  his  case  of  a  clearly  material  and  controlling  char- 
acter a  reopening  of  such  case  would  neither  be  in  accordance  with 
established  usage  nor  desirable.  The  case  has  been  heretofore 
most  fully  and  patiently  considered,  and  a  most  decided  final  opin- 
ion arrived  at  and  expressed  by  the  Secretary  of  War  and  the 
President,  that  the  reappointment  of  this  party  to  the  Army  could 
not  property  be  granted.  Repeated  unfavorable  reports  have 
been  made  in  the  case  by  the  Judge  Advocate  General,  and,  on 
January  31,  1876,  a  very  elaborate  review  of  the  facts  and  law,  with 
extended  exhibits,  was  prepared  at  this  Bureau  by  the  request  of 
Honorable  Secretary  Belknap,  a  copy  of  which  is  herewith  en- 
closed for  reference.  The  conclusion  of  this  review  will  be  seen 
that  Armes  was  justly  dismissed,  that  the  course  pursued  by  him 
since  his  dismissal  had  been  such  as  to  forfeit  any  claim  that  he 
might  have  had  upon  the  clemency  of  the  Executive  by  reason  of 
his  services,  and  that  he  had  bv  his  conduct  rendered  it  impossible 
for  the  Secrelarv  of  War  to  recommend  his  reappointment.  It  is 
repeated  that  unless  he  shall  produce  in  his  favor  entirely  new  and 
genuinely  written  and  sworn  evidence  of  a  clear,  positive  and  con- 
vincing character,  as  to  the  merits  of  his  case  as  tried,  his  applica- 
tion for  a  reopening  of  the  same  shall  not  be  entertained. 

Tt  may  be  remarked  that  as  the  trial  of  Armes  took  place  in 
March,  1870,  any  alleged  new  evidence  upon  the  merits,  now  first 
offered,  must  be  received  with  extreme  caution. 

(Signed)         W.  M.  DUNN, 

Judge  Advocate  General. 


421 


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423 


424 


(Extract  from  a  letter  of  Wm.  H.  Penrose,  Bvt.  Brig.-Gen.,  U. 

S.  A.,  dated  February  22,  1876.) 

Major  Arnies  has  been  known  to  me  since  1868,  and  prior  by 
reputation,  serving  under  my  command  during  the  Indian  cam- 
paign of  1868-69.  I  found  him  an  officer  of  strictly  moral  habits, 
and  to  the  best  of  his  ability  performing  all  of  his  official  duties; 
;md  as  to  his  special  accusers,  Captains  Cox  and  Graham,  they 
were  both  known  to  me.  The  former  was  a  personal  enemy  of 
Major  Armes.  and  did  not  hesitate  whenever  opportunity  offered 
to  injure  him  by  word  or  deed.  The  latter,  who,  I  believe,  pre- 
ferred the  charges  against  the  Major,  was  a  man  of  the  lowest 
instincts — a  murderer  at  heart,  as  was  proved  by  his  attempt  on 
the  life  of  the  Paymaster,  the  presence  of  ladies  not  deterring  him 
from  his  nefarious  intent.  His  associates  were  of  the  lowest  char- 
acter; his  resorts,  the  barroom  and  gambling-houses. 

WM.  H.  PENROSE, 

Bvt.  Brig.-Gen.,  U.  S.  A. 

I  have  known  George  A.  Armes,  late  Captain  Tenth  U.  S.  Cav., 
personally  since  April,  1867.  Have  always  found  him  to  be  a  gen- 
tleman of  good  habits  and  honorable  bearing.  From  those  offi- 
cers who  served  with  him  during  the  late  war  I  have  learned  that 
his  record  was  very  good.  He  is  certainly  deserving,  and  ought 
not  to  have  his  military  record  and  future  prospects  blighted  by 
the  sentence  of  a  court-martial,  actuated  and  influenced  by  per- 
sonal considerations,  as  I  am  satisfied  the  court  that  tried  Captain 
Armes  was. 

B.  F.  GRAFTON, 

Late  U.  S.  A. 


425 
(Extract.) 

I  knew  you  (Captain  ArmesJ  in  active  service  as  Second  Lieu- 
tenant Second  U.  S.  Cavalry,  in  the  Department  of  the  Platte,  in 
the  year  1867.  Your  personal  character  and  courtesy  was  above 
reproach  as  it  came  under  my  notice,  and  you  were  held  by  my 
friends  in  the  same  estimation.  Knowing  you  as  well  as  I  did,  I 
must  confess  it  is  hard  for  me  to  believe  you  guilty  of  the  charges 
under  which  you  went  out  of  the  Army. 

I  never  knew  a  truly  brave  and  gallant  officer,  such  as  you  were, 
and  as  you  stand  recorded,  who  was  as  base  as  you  should  be  to  be 
found  guilty  of  charges  such  as  were  preferred  against  you. 

I  cannot,  knowing  you  as  I  do,  but  hope  that  the  investigation 
you  are  pursuing  will  end  in  clearing  your  reputation  as  an  officer 
and  gentleman  from  the  only  stain  I  know  that  rests  upon  it. 

A.  J.  DALLAS, 
Major  Twenty-third  Infantry. 

Washington,  D.  C,  April  9,  1877. 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  submit  herewith  a  statement  of  facts 
relative  to  my  dismissal  from  the  Army,  June  7,  1870,  and  also  the 
following  papers  relative  thereto : 

I  was  advised  by  several  officers,  who  were  my  friends,  to  object 
to  certain  members  of  the  court,  who,  with  the  exception  of  Col- 
onel Poland  and  Captain  Yates,  had  publicly  expressed  themselves 
against  me.  When  challenging  Colonel  Buell  as  an  unfit  member 
of  the  court,  he  denied  under  oath  the  accusation,  or  that  he  was 
prejudiced  in  any  way.  Some  threatening  words  passed  between 
us,  when  General  Custer,  a  spectator  in  the  courtroom,  came  to 
my  rescue  and  stated  to  the  court  that  he  had  heard  Colonel  Buell 
^ive  expression  to  language  tending  to  showT  that  he  had  formed 
an  unfavorable  opinion  of  my  case.  This  excitement  caused  the 
court  to  be  cleared,  but  within  a  few  minutes  the  doors  were 
opened,  when  charges  had  been  prepared  for  contempt  of  court 
and  read,  to  which  I  pleaded  not  guilty. 

I  was  forced  to  trial  at  once.  Buell  was  allowed  to  sit  as  a  mem- 
ber of  the  court,  which  sentenced  me  during  trial  to  the  common 
guardhouse  for  enlisted  men,  deserters,  thieves,  and  denied  all 
communication  with  anyone  except  my  counsel,  and  even  he  was 
not  allowed  to  communicate  with  me  unless  by  special  permission 
of  the  president  of  the  court.  Had  I  been  placed  in  close  arrest  in 
my  quarters  the  act  would  not  have  been  such  a  disgraceful  and 
arbitrary  one,  but  more  in  harmony  with  military  law,  as  I  had  not, 
prior  to  that  time,  been  in  close  arrest  or  broken  my  parole.  It  was 
while  undergoing  this  illegal  punishment  that  I,  upon  the  request 
of  my  counsel,  signed  a  paper  prepared  by  the  court,  termed  an 
apology,  but  verbally  protested. 


426 

When  released  from  guardhouse  i  had  the  entire  court  arrested 
by  the  civil  authorities,  and  brought  suit  for  damages  for  my  false 
imprisonment  and  their  gross  violation  of  law  in  taking  advan- 
tage of  their  official  position  to  avenge  their  personal  spite  by 
forcibly  placing  me  in  a  degrading  and  humiliating  confinement. 
Hail  was  given  for  their  appearance  at  the  next  term  of  the  Circuit 
Court,  and  upon  their  reassembling  my  trial  proceeded,  which  re- 
sulted in  my  dismissal. 

1  think  that  the  court-martial  records  will  show,  and  should, 
that  one  of  the  members  of  the  court  had  publicly  expressed  him- 
self prejudiced  against  me  before  the  trial,  and  that  the  remon- 
strances of  both  myself  and  counsel  did  not  prevent  him  or  them 
from  sitting  with  the  court,  although  acknowledging  the  fact  when 
objected  to. 

Before  receiving  the  order  of  dismissal  I  was  sent  from  Fort 
Leavenworth  several  hundred  miles  southwest  to  Camp  Supply, 
i.  T.,  by  General  Sturgis,  who  knew  the  sentence  of  the  court, 
when  I  did  not  receive  the  above  order  until  June  23,  1870,  which 
came  through  Lieut-Col.  A.  D.  Nelson,  commanding  officer  of 
the  post  at  "Camp  Supply,"  with  an  order  from  Nelson  directing 
me  to  leave  the  post  within  twenty-four  hours  after  its  receipt- 
thus  cast  out  of  the  Army  in  disgrace  after  nine  years'  active  and 
honorable  service,  without  money  or  friends,  many  hundred  miles 
from  my  home,  to  work  my  way  back  as  best  I  could. 

Being  without  means,  and  unable  to  obtain  employment  of  any 
kind,  I  was  obliged  for  a  time  to  wear  a  portion  of  my  uniform, 
which  I  altered  to  citizen's  dress  as  nearly  as  possible  by  taking  off 
shoulder-straps,  brass  buttons  and  stripes  on  the  trousers.  The 
War  Department,  through  the  agency  of  some  courageous  marti- 
net, officially  notified  me  I  was  not  allowed  to  wear  any  part  of  it, 
but  failed  to  mention  where  I  could  obtain  a  suit  of  citizen's 
clothes  without  the  necessary  funds.  Soon  after  arrival  here  1 
went  to  the  Department  and  presented  a  letter  of  introduction  to 
Secretary  Benknap  from  Governor  Kirkwood,  requesting  a  re- 
hearing of  my  case,  but  received  no  encouragement,  after  which 
1  employed  Messrs.  Casey,  Bartley  &  Stanton,  attorneys,  who  ex- 
amined the  records  and  brought  it  to  the  notice  of  the  President, 
with  the  additional  fact  that  Graham,  who  liad  preferred  the 
charges  against  me,  had  been  convicted  upon  charges  made  by 
myself  against  him  several  months  after  I  was  arraigned  for  trial. 
My  counsel  informed  me  that  if  I  would  withdraw  the  civil  suit 
pending  against  the  military  court  at  Leavenworth  the  President 
would  renominate  me  to  my  former  position  in  the  Army.  I  ac- 
cordingly did  so,  and  sent  him  the  order  of  the  court.  I  was  re- 
quested to  call  on  the  Secretary  of  War,  who  informed  me  of  my 
nomination,  but  demanded  my  resignation  in  blank  before  he 
would  consent  to  my  name  going  to  the  Senate.  I  gave  it  to  him 
very  reluctantly,  and  recalled  it,  stating  that  I  would  rather  have 


427 

the  matter  remain  as  it  was  than  be  forced  in  an  underhanded 
manner.  Seeing  my  nomination  in  the  newspapers,  with  other 
appointments  for  confirmation,  1  considered  it  my  duty  to  register 
my  name  and  address  at  the  War  Department  according  to  cus- 
tom. 1  was  not  confirmed.  In  1871  a  bill  was  introduced  in  the 
House  authorizing  the  President  to  restore  me  to  the  Army,  and 
in  1873  the  Military  Committee  substituted  a  bill  directing  the 
Secretary  of  War  to  give  me  an  honorable  discharge,  which  passed 
January  10,  1873.  When  this  bill  reached  the  Senate  it  was  re- 
ferred to  its  Military  Committee,  whose  chairman  received  a  com- 
munication from  the  War  Department,  dated  January  n,  1873, 
protesting  against  the  passage  of  the  bill.  The  chairman,  Senator 
John  A.  Logan,  thereupon  made  an  adverse  report,  without  any 
examination  of  my  record  or  inquiring  into  the  facts,  or  even  re- 
ferring it  to  any  member  of  his  Committee,  taking  for  granted  that 
Belknap's  request  to  make  an  adverse  report  was  all  that  was 
necessary. 

At  the  next  meeting  of  Congress  the  same  bill  was  introduced  in 
the  Senate,  when  the  Military  Committee  made  a  unanimous  re- 
port in  my  favor.  The  bill,  however,  did  not  become  a  law  until 
May  28,  1874,  and  then  without  the  approval  of  the  President,  who 
had  received  an  unfavorable  report  thereon  from  the  War  Depart- 
ment, dated  June  I,  1874,  which  in  some  respects  I  know  misrep- 
resented the  facts.  1  made  no  agreement  with  the  President  or 
anyone  to  resign,  as  stated  in  that  report.  The  blank  resignation 
en  file  in  the  War  Department  was  forced  upon  me  by  Belknap 
after  my  nomination  was  made  by  the  President.  As  an  instance 
of  hostility  shown  me  by  the  War  Department,  1  cite  the  fact  that 
when  I  was  dismissed  it  was  made  public  by  General  Order,  but 
when  my  record  was  corrected  by  an  Act  of  Congress  it  was  pro- 
mulgated through  a  Special  Order,  of  which  no  publicity  was  given. 
And  when  a  history  of  my  former  regiment  was  being  written, 
several  months  after  my  honorable  discharge,  the  author,  General 
Rodenbough,  was  unable  to  procure  from  the  War  Department 
any  other  evidence  than  that  I  stood  on  the  record  as  a  dismissed 
officer,  and  in  that  way  I  appeared  in  his  book. 

Soon  after  receiving  my  honorable  discharge  a  bill  was  intro- 
duced in  the  House  authorizing  and  directing  the  Secretary  of 
War  to  restore  me  to  the  Army.  The  Secretary  sent  an  infamous 
and  libelous  protest  to  the  Senate,  signed  by  a  number  of  officers, 
many  of  whom  were  unknown  to  me.  So  my  bill,  in  consequence 
of  this  petition,  was  reported  adversely  without  examination. 

At  the  opening  of  the  Forty-fourth  Congress  another  bill  was 
introduced  in  both  Houses  and  referred  to  the  Military  Commit- 
tees. The  House  Committee's  report  I  invite  special  attention  to, 
as  it  shows  that  the  Committee  had  thoroughly  and  carefully  ex- 
amined the  records  of  the  War  Department.  This  bill  passed  both 
Houses  at  the  last  session,  and  had  it  received  the  President's  sig- 
nature* would  have  become  law. 


428 

*General  Grant's  show  of  spite  by  refusing  to  sign  my  bill,  after 
so  thorough  an  investigation  of  my  case,  because  I  had  brought 
charges  against  his  Secretary  of  War,  Belknap,  which  drove  him 
(Belknap)  from  power,  shows  a  weak  spot. 

I  entered  the  Army  as  a  private  soldier  at  the  beginning  of  the 
war,  a  boy  of  but  sixteen,  when  nearly  all  my  classmates  and  asso- 
ciates joined  the  Confederates,  and  when  it  was  almost  considered 
a  crime  in  Virginia  to  be  loyal.  I  fought  in  nearly  all  the  battles 
of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  and  earned  my  promotions  and 
brevets  without  the  aid  of  family  influence,  social  considerations 
or  political  friendships. 

I  have  been  several  times  wounded  in  actual  battle  and  twice  on 
the  plains  fighting  Indians.  Have  been  six  times  complimented 
in  general  orders  and  by  letter  for  personal  bravery  in  the  field  by 
general  officers  with  whom  I  served.  At  twenty-one  years  of  age 
I  was  appointed  in  the  regular  Army,  and  won  my  promotion  to  a 
Captaincy. 

I  went  into  the  war  from  a  sense  of  patriotic  duty,  and  took  pride 
in  the  profession  of  a  soldier,  and  it  is  unreasonable  to  suppose 
that  I  would  part  with  my  record  for  the  flimsy  and  infamous 
charges  which  were  brought  against  me.  I  have  spent  seven  years 
at  the  Capitol  in  seeking,  not  a  favor,  but  justice,  in  endeavoring 
to  remove  the  stigma  of  disgrace  cast  upon  my  name,  which  I  feel 
can  only  be  done  by  placing  me  back  in  the  position  from  which 
1  was  unjustly  removed.  It  has  been  my  fixed  purpose  from  the 
day  on  which  I  received  sentence  to  devote  so  much  of  my  life  as 
may  be  necessary  to  accomplish  that  end.  I  need  not  assure  you 
of  my  sincerity  and  earnestness  in  this  matter.  I  incurred  the  dis- 
pleasure of  vSecretary  Belknap,  and  he  obstructed  my  efforts  to  be 
reinstated,  but  not  from  any  lack  of  respect  due  his  position;  he 
took  his  stand  against  me  upon  the  misrepresentation  of  men 
wearing  the  uniform  of  officers  of  the  Army,  but  who  would  have 
been  more  at  home  in  prison  garb. 

I  now  renew  my  application  before  the  Department,  reinforced 
\vith  further  evidence,  and  feeling  assured  that  you  will  give  my 
case  your  considerate  attention. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Late  Captain,  U.  S.  A. 

714  Tenth  street  N.  W. 

The  above  was  addressed  to  the  new  Secretary  of  War,  Hon. 
George  W.  McCrary.  I  now  resume  extracts  from  my  diary : 

April  10,  1877. 

Senator  W.  P.  Kellogg  went  with  me  to  see  some  property 
today.  He  is  one  of  my  friends,  assisting  me  to  get  justice,  and 


429 

has  helped  me  without  fear  or  favor  from  the  Secretary  of  War. 
Quite  a  number  of  Senators  and  members  have  been  out  with  me 
to  look  at  property. 

April  19,  1877. 

Went  out  during  the  afternoon  with  Mr.  Weston,  and  our  con- 
versation drifted  on  the  subject  of  building  flats.  He  thought  it 
was  very  singular  that  we  had  not  such  buildings  in  Washington, 
when  I  remarked  that  it  needed  some  one  of  enterprise  to  start 
anything  of  the  kind,  and  that  we  would  have  to  go  out  of  Wash- 
irgton  to  find  capitalists  who  had  energy  and  foresight  sufficient 
to  cajry  on  such  an  enterprise,  as  Washingtonians  had  not  yet  ac- 
quired those  qualities.  I  finally  suggested  that  he  purchase  that 
block  between  L  street  and  Thomas  Circle  on  Fourteenth  street 
and  erect  such  a  building  as  had  been  spoken  of,  then  others 
would  follow  his  example ;  that  all  that  was  needed  was  some  one 
to  "start  the  ball  rolling."  He  hesitated,  saying  that  he  had  re- 
tired from  business  fifteen  years  ago;  but  after  a  short  argument, 
during  which  T  reminded  him  that  we  had  good  architects  and 
that  the  experiment  would  be  a  good  pastime  for  him,  he  agreed 
to  undertake  it.  Architect  Cluss  was  selected  to  draw  his  plans, 
but  was  unable  to  secure  the  whole  triangle,  as  Mr.  Burchell  and 
other  owners  of  the  property  asked  too  much  for  their  portion 
when  it  was  discovered  that  Mr.  Weston  had  concluded  to  build.* 

'•'•\\y  conversation  with  Mr.  Weston  that  afternoon  resulted  in 
the  building  of  the  Portland  Flats  at  Thomas  Circle  on  Vermont 
avenue  and  Fourteenth  street,  one  of  the  finest  and  most  substan- 
tial fireproof  buildings  in  this  District,  and  the  first  of  its  kind  ever 
built  in  the  city  of  Washington. 

May  3,  1877. 

Called  on  General  Hancock  and  Colonel  Mitchell  today  at 
Wormley's.  They  seemed  glad  to  see  me.  The  following  is  self- 
explanatory  : 

Washington,  D.  C,  May  8,  1877. 
(ien.  Chas.  W.  Ewing, 

Attorney-at-Law, 

Washington,  D.  C.: 

Sir- — I  have  the  honor  to  request  that  you  take  charge  of  my 
case  and  have  me  restored  to  my  proper  rank  as  Captain  of  cav- 
alry, U.  S.  A.,  within  the  next  four  months,  or  before  the  assemb- 


430 

ling  of  Congress.  I  will  give  you  50  per  cent,  of  all  money  that  is 
due  and  paid  to  me  by  the  Government  up  to  the  date  of  my  recog- 
nition as  Captain,  provided  you  will  assume  all  expenses  of  print- 
ing, etc.,  in  connection  with  the  case  and  never  bring  any  charge 
against  me  for  services  in  this  case  if  you  fail. 

If  you  accept  my  terms,  let  me  hear  from  you  at  once,  and 
oblige, 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Late  Captain,  U.  S.  A. 

August  21,  1877. 

A  messenger  called  on  me  today  stating  that  Mr.  Frederick  W. 
Seward  would  like  to  see  me.  When  I  called  he  said  that  he  had 
spoken  as  favorably  as  possible  to  the  President,  and  that  he  was 
anxious  to  see  me  get  justice. 

August  24,  1877. 

Was  at  General  Ewing' s  office  today.  He  gave  me  a  letter  to 
present  to  Mr.  Rogers,  who  told  me  to  tell  General  Ewing  to  call 
on  him  at  his  first  opportunity. 

August  25,  1877. 

General  Ewing  and  I  having  come  to  an  understanding,  he  sent 
me  the  following  agreement : 
Dear  Captain: 

It  is  understood  that  if  you  are  not  nominated  to  the  Senate  be- 
fore the  first  day  of  December  next  I  will  surrender  my  contract 
for  a  fee  in  your  case. 

Yours  truly, 

CHAS.  EWING. 
CAPT.  GEO.  A.  ARMES. 

September  7,  1877. 

Met  Mr.  Elkins  and  his  father-in-law,  Senator  Davis,  at  the 
Riggs  House,  and  I  went  around  to  look  at  some  property.  I 
finally  leased  them  house  1413  K  street. 

September  20,  1877. 

Gen.  Don  Piatt  went  with  me  to  see  the  Corcoran  street  house, 
and  is  deeply  interested  on  acount  of  his  nephew,  General  Run- 
kle.  We  closed  the  transaction  for  $6500,  he  paying  one-half 
cash. 


431 

November  23,  1877. 

Colonel  Don  Piatt  called  with  me  today  on  Postmast,er-Gen- 
eral  Key.  The  latter  agreed  to  go  to  the  President,  bringing  my 
case  before  him,  and  has  volunteered  to  do  everything  he  can  in 
my  behalf.  I  also  gave  General  Banks  my  bill,  to  which  he  has 
agreed  to  give  his  personal  attention, 

November  24,  1877. 

Postmaster-General  Key  informed  me  that  he  spent  some  time 
with  President  Hayes  in  regard  to  my  case,  who  sent  for  the  Sec- 
retary of  War,  and  after  a  careful  investigation  they  decided  it 
would  be  best  to  have  the  matter  brought  up  before  Congress, 
and  if  Congress  acted  favorably  they  would  do  their  part.  Con- 
sidering that  there  is  no  law  to  warrant  his  restoring  me  to  my 
full  rank  except  through  Congressional  legislation,  this  news  was 
very  encouraging,  for  I  believe  now  that  honest  men  are  in  power 
who  intend  to  give  me  justice. 

November  27,  1877. 

General  Banks  has  introduced  a  bill  in  the  House  for  my 
restoration.  While  at  the  Capitol  today  I  saw  General  Banning, 
and  he  told  me  he  would  refer  the  bill  to  Colonel  Maish  of  Penn- 
sylvania for  investigation.  Senator  Christiancy  introduced  a  bill 
in  the  Senate  yesterday  to  restore  me. 

December  14,  1877. 

Had  a  very  pleasant  conversation  with  Senator  Maxey  of 
Texas,  who  is  a  member  of  the  Senate  Military  Committee.  My 
bill  has  been  referred  to  him  to  investigate.  He  is  a  graduate  of 
West  Point  and  served  as  a  Major-General  in  the  Southern  Army. 
He  is  considered  as  one  of  the  most  honorable,  upright  and  fair- 
minded  men  in  the  Senate,  and  I  have  full  confidence  in  his  judg- 
ment and  ability  to  investigate  my  case. 

December  27,  1877. 

Saw  Senator  Wallace  last  evening.  He  is  a  good  friend  of 
mine,  and  made  me  an  offer  for  1025  Vermont  avenue. 


432 


December  28,  1877. 
General  Ewing,  having  made 
an  agreement  with  me  in  re- 
gard to  my  case,  has  taken  an 
active  part  to  secure  my  re- 
storation to  the  Army  without 
action  of  Congress. 


December  31,  1877. 
I  have  been  very  busy  look- 
ing over  my  accounts  and  in 
settling  up  the  past  year's  af- 
fairs. T  find  I  have  no  cause 
to  complain  of  my  success. 
Although  L  have  not  made 
any  very  large  transactions 
in  bulk,  1  have  rented  and  sold 
more  houses  during  the  past 
year  than,  perhaps,  any  five  real- 
SKNATOR  WAU.ACK.  estate  brokers  in  the  city ;  and 

all  this  without  interfering  with  my  military  matter.  In  fact,  my  pro- 
fession aids  to  a  certain  extent  in  getting  access  to  officials  to  whom 
it  is  necessary  to  explain  the  details  of  my  case.  My  prospects  are 
bright  for  my  restoration  to  the  Army  next  year,  as  most  of  my 
accusers  and  those  who  have  opposed  my  restoration  have  been 
left  at  home  or  have  had  their  crooked  transactions  exposed  to 
such  an  extent  that  what  they  say  or  try  to  do  will  have  no  effect 
with  my  friends,  who  are  now  in  power  and  have  shown  a  disposi- 
tion to  do  me  justice. 


CHAPTER  XVI. 

January  i,  1878. 

I  left  my  wife  and  babies  with  my  mother-in-law  this  A.  M.  and 
called  on  General  Batchelder,  Colonel  Maish,  the  President  and 
Cabinet,  Postmaster-General  Key,  Secretary  Thompson,  Dr.  Har- 
land,  Governor  Sheppard,  Carpenter,  the  Hancocks,  Schurz,  Col- 
onel Moore,  Secretary  Sherman,  General  Jeffreys,  Biddle,  Bab- 
cock,  Larner,  Douglass,  Rogers,  Weston,  Stewart,  the  Clep- 
hanes,  Humphrey,  Admiral  Stanley,  Denver  and  at  least  twenty 
others,  greatly  enjoying  our  visits. 

January  19,  1878. 

Drove  around  to  look  at  houses  with  Hon.  Clarkson  Potter, 
and  finally  decided  on  a  New  York  avenue  house.  Senator  Wal- 
lace of  Pennsylvania  is  still  undecided  in  relation  to  closing  the 
large  deal  we  have  on  hand.  He  made  an  offer  of  $15,000  worth 
of  coal  land  in  part  trade  for  No.  1025  Vermont  avenue.  Was 
also  out  with  Senator  Randolph  today. 

January  22,  1878. 

Spent  a  portion  of  last  evening  with  Colonel  Marsh  of  Illinois, 
who  is  interested  in  my  case.  Saw  General  Maxey  of  Texas,  who 
is  taking  a  personal  interest  in  my  behalf. 

January  26,  1878. 

Had  a  short  talk  with  Senator  Maxey  today  and  obtained  a 
pass  from  Speaker  Randall  for  thirty  days,  admitting  me  to  the 
floor,  where  I  have  an  opportunity  of  talking  to  my  friends. 

House  of  Representatives, 

Washington,  D.  C,  January  25,  1878. 

Dear  Sir — I  enclose  pass  for  thirty  days.  The  Speaker  will  not 
grant  to  anyone  for  a  longer  period,  but  it  may  be  renewed. 

Respectfully, 

W.  J.  SOUTHARD,  M.  C. 

January  27,  1878. 

About  7  o'clock  this  A.  M.  the  bell  rang  several  times,  and 
Albert  and  Kenneth,  my  wife's  two  brothers,  brought  the  informa- 


434 

tion  that  her  father  had  suddenly  died  at  6  A.  M.  We  hurried 
through  breakfast  and  drove  to  the  house,  where  we  met  a  large 
number  of  Judge  Kerr's  friends.  His  death  was  so  sudden  that 
almost  everyone  was  paralyzed  for  the  time  being. 

January  28,  1878. 

After  taking  Lucy  home  yesterday  afternoon  I  returned  to  the 
house,  where  1  met  Governor  Swan  of  Maryland,  Judge  Richard- 
son, Admiral  Stanley,  General  Coberton,  Colonel  Watson,  Pres- 
cott  of  South  Carolina,  Dr.  C.  C.  Cox,  Dr.  William  Gunton,  presi- 
dent Washington  Bank,  and  quite  a  number  of  my  father- 
in-law's  old,  substantial  friends,  who  had  called  to  pay  their 
respects  to  Mrs.  Kerr.  The  following  appeared  in  the  Washing- 
ton Post,  January  28,  1878  : 

FROM  A  PARTY  TO  THE  GRAVE. 

THE  SUDDEN  DEATH  OF  JOHN  BOZMAN  KERR SKETCH  OF  HIS  LIFE. 

The  Hon.  John  B.  Kerr,  for  many  years  a  resident  of  this  city, 
died  very  suddenly  at  his  residence  on  Twenty-first  street,  at  6 
o'clock  on  .Sunday  morning,  of  angina  pectoris.  He  attended 
Horatio  King's  literary  party  on  Saturday  evening,  and  retired  to 
rest  in  apparently  excellent  health.  Mr.  Kerr  was  a  son  of  the  late 
John  Leeds  Kerr,  and  was  born  in  Talbot  County,  Maryland,  in 
1809.  He  graduated  at  Harvard  University  in  1830  in  the  same 
class  with  Charles  Sumner.  He  was  admitted  to  the  bar  in  1833, 
and  subsequently  elected  to  the  Legislature  and  to  Congress.  In 
1850  he  was  appointed  by  President  Filmore  Charge  d' Affaires  to 
Guatemala,  where  he  resided  until  1853.  Returning  to  the  United 
States,  he  took  up  his  residence  in  St.  Michaels,  on  the  Eastern 
Shore  of  Maryland.  After  the  breaking  out  of  the  civil  war  he  re- 
moved to  Washington,  where  he  held  for  some  years  the  post  of 
Assistant  Solicitor  of  the  Court  of  Claims.  For  several  years  be- 
fore his  death  he  had  been  law  clerk  in  the  Sixth  Auditor's  Office. 
Mr.  Kerr  was  an  accomplished  scholar  in  ancient  and  modern  lore, 
an  ardent  student  of  history,  and  especially  of  the  history  of  his 
native  State,  a  well-read  lawyer  and  a  most  agreeable  and  instruc- 
tive companion.  By  his  death  his  wife  and  nine  children  are  de- 
prived of  a  most  affectionate  husband  and  father.  He  was  in  every 
relation  of  life  a  man  of  admirable  qualities  of  head  and  heart,  and 
sincerely  admired  by  a  very  large  circle  of  friends. 

Baltimore,  Md.,  January  29,  1878. 

After  breakfast  I  drove  up  to  Judge  Kerr's  house ;  to  St.  Paul's 
at  3  P.  M.  Left  Lucy  at  her  mother's,  and  Mr.  Charles  Kerr,  my 


435 

wife's  uncle,  with  Leeds  and  Arthur,  her  two  brothers,  brought 
the  remains  of  the  Judge  over  here,  and  we  are  now  waiting  for 
the  boat  to  take  them  over  to  Easton,  Md. 

Easton,  Md.,  January  30,  1878. 

Yesterday  afternoon  Charles  Kerr  invited  us  to  dine  at  his 
house  in  Baltimore,  after  which  the  remains  were  placed  in  the 
boat,  and  we  left  at  1 1  o'clock,  reaching  Easton  at  6  A.  M.,  where 
we  were  met  by  Mr.  Tilman  with  the  carriage  and  hearse,  and 
Judge  Kerr's  remains  were  taken  to  the  same  church  where  he 
was  married  on  this  day  twenty-eight  years  ago,  a  singular  coin- 
cidence. Mr.  Kerr  represented  this  district  in  Congress  for  a 
number  of  years,  succeeding  his  father,  John  Leeds  Kerr,  who 
represented  this  part  of  Maryland  in  the  United  States  Senate. 
Mr.  Tilman  invited  us  to  breakfast,  after  which  we  took  the  re- 
mains to  the  old  family  burial-ground.  My  wife's  oldest  brother, 
Leeds  Kerr,  was  overcome  and  fainted,  and  it  was  some  time  be- 
fore Dr.  Earl  could  bring  him  to.  In  going  through  the  old 
homestead  I  found  quite  a  number  of  old  letters  and  newspapers 
published  and  written  over  a  hundred  years  ago,  which  I  brought 
back  home  as  interesting  souvenirs. 

Baltimore,  Md.,  January  31,  1878. 

After  our  return  from  the  old  homestead  burial-ground  Mrs. 
Shreve,  Captain  Tilman's  sister  and  Lucy's  cousin,  invited  us  to 
dine,  and  we  left  on  the  8  o'clock  boat  last  evening ;  but  we  were 
stuck  on  a  sand  bar  for  several  hours  before  reaching  Baltimore, 
and  did  not  arrive  until  about  2  o'clock,  when  Uncle  Charley  Kerr 
invited  us  to  lunch. 

February  7,  1878. 

While  at  the  Capitol  I  learned  that  General  Bragg  was  to  make 
a  big  fight  against  the  passage  of  my  bill.  I  did  my  best  to  see 
him  before  it  was  called  up,  but  he  would  not  discuss  the  ques- 
tion with  me.  When  the  bill  was  called  he  raised  a  point  of  order, 
and  it  was  postponed  until  next  Tuesday. 

February  9,  1878. 

General  Ewing  having  failed  to  get  my  matter  settled  with  the 
President,  it  is  necessary  to  resort  to  other  means  to  procure  the 
passage  of  a  bill. 


436 

February  12,  1878. 

Had  a  talk  with  General  Banning  last  night.  Mr.  Wilson  told 
me  that  they  would  do  what  they  could  to  get  the  bill  called  up 
tomorrow.  Commissioner  Johnson  is  taking  a  personal  interest 
also,  and  informed  me  that  it  would  be  reported  favorably  by  the 
committee.  Was  at  the  Capitol  today  at  n  o'clock  with  a  large 
number  of  my  friends  on  hand  to  help  me.  Judge  Dibrell  of  Ten- 
nessee took  a  personal  interest  in  the  matter,  trying  to  get  Col- 
onel Maish  to  bring  up  the  bill,  but  there  was  no  chance. 

March  I,  1878. 

Senator  Randolph  and  I  drove  up  to  the  Capitol  this  morning 
together.  While  there  I  had  a  long  talk  with  Colonel  Maish,  who 
thinks  he  can  call  up  my  bill  next  Tuesday,  and  has  made  a  favor- 
able report.  He  says  General  Bragg  will  do  his  utmost  to  kill  it. 

March  5,  1878. 

Spent  last  evening  with  Senator  Harris  of  Tennessee,  who  went 
all  through  my  case,  and  has  agreed  to  stand  by  Senator  Maxey, 
who  made  a  favorable  report  on  the  bill  today. 

March  12,  1878. 

General  Dibrell  of  Tennessee,  who  is  on  the  Military  Com- 
mittee, took  an  active  part  in  helping  Colonel  Maish  to  get  my 
bill  through  the  committee,  and  he  and  Colonel  Maish  are  now 
fixing  the  report  so  as  to  call  it  up  in  the  House  and  put  it  on  its 
passage  at  the  first  opportunity. 

Monday,  April  i,  1878. 

Was  out  with  Captain  Howgate  to  look  at  property,  and  have 
a  large  deal  on  hand  which  I  hope  to  get  through.  Father  White, 
who  married  me,  died  at  8  o'clock  this  A.  M. 

April  4,  1878. 

Colonel  Grierson  of  the  Tenth  Cavalry  sent  a  protest  to  the 
Senate  and  House  today  opposing  my  restoration,  but  I  am  sat- 
isfied that  it  will  have  very  little  effect,  as  the  case  has  been  so 
thoroughly  investigated  that  anything  Grierson  will  say  or  do 
will  be  without  avail. 


437 

April  10,  1878. 

Went  up  to  the  Capitol  and  had  a  large  number  of  members  in- 
terested. General  T.  T.  Crittenden  has  agreed  to  defend  me  in 
the  House  against  General  Bragg. 

The  following  was  sent  him  later : 

i 

Washington,  D.  C,  April  12,  1878. 
Hon.  T.  T.  Crittenden: 

Sir — Having  just  learned  that  letters  I  have  written  in  the  past 
few  years  to  W.  W.  Belknap,  late  Secretary  of  War,  have  been 
severely  commented  upon,  I  find  it  necessary  to  explain  my  mo- 
tive for  writing  in  the  manner  I  did.  I  deny  that  I  offered  to  com- 
promise with  the  late  Secretary  of  War  in  any  of  my  letters  to  him. 
One  dated  January  20,  1876,  he  used  against  me,  and  endeavored 
to  make  it  appear  that  I  would  withdraw  all  charges  against  him, 
provided  he  would  cease  opposing  me.  Such  was  not  my  mean- 
ing, nor  can  I  see  how  so  absurd  an  idea  could  be  formed.  My  in- 
tention at  that  time  was,  if  he  should  make  any  further  misrepre- 
sentations against  me  to  make  it  a  personal  matter  with  him.  The 
dates  of  all  charges  I  made  against  him  will  show  they  were  pub- 
lished over  my  signature  before  the  letter  he  tried  to  make  so  much 
capital  of  against  me  was  submitted.  By  reference  to  the  St.  Louis 
Times  of  December  22,  1875,  it  can  be  seen  my  charges  had  been 
given  as  much  publicity  as  was  necessary  to  show  that  I  was  in 
earnest,  and  my  request  to  Mr.  Clymer  to  write  to  General  Hazen, 
who  sent  him  the  facts  in  the  matter,  was  made  before  T  wrote  the 
letter  alluded  to.  I  have  aimed  from  my  youth  to  lead  an  honest, 
straightforward  career,  and  am  willing  to  have  every  transaction 
I  ever  made  fully  investigated.  I  do  not  begin  attacks  for  the  sake 
of  notoriety,  but  I  do  resent  them  when  it  is  necessary.  My  train- 
ing in  the  regular  Army  taught  me  to  be  respectful  to  superiors, 
but  my  letters  to  W.  W.  Belknap  may  seem  to  the  general  reader 
threatening  and  insulting,  but  T  was  fully  justified,  and  had  good 
cause  for  every  word  I  wrote.  Some  persons  will  submit  to  injus- 
tice and  abuse,  but  I  will  not  from  any  man,  no  matter  what  his 
position  is.  Enclosed  you  will  find  papers,  to  which  I  call  your 
attention. 

Respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

GEO.  A.  ARMES. 

I  had  copies  of  Colonel  Maish's  report  put  on  all  the  members' 
desks,  and  at  12  o'clock  my  bill  was  called  up.  General  Bragg  of 
Wisconsin  at  once  took  the  floor  and  began  to  speak  against  it. 
After  he  was  through  General  Crittenden  of  Missouri  replied,  and 
you  could  almost  hear  a  pin  drop,  he  had  such  attention,  and  after 


438 

several  hours'  discussion  the  bill  was  passed,  creating  considera- 
ble excitement.  I  was  congratulated  by  hundreds,  there  having 
been  such  opposition  by  the  Army  and  administration  and  offi- 
cials who  were  determined  it  should  not  go  through  if  it  could  be 
prevented.  It  was  a  great  victory  for  me. 

The  following  portion  of  the  debate  is  taken  from  the  official 
report  as  printed  in  the  Congressional  Record: 

The  Speaker.  The  unfinished  business  of  the  morning  hour 
coming  over  from  last  Friday  is  the  bill  (H.  R.  No.  4242)  to  au- 
thorize the  restoration  of  George  A.  Armes  to  the  rank  of  Captain. 

Mr.  Bragg.  I  regret  exceedingly  to  be  obliged  to  oppose  a  re- 
port of  a  majority  of  the  Military  Committee,  who  have  recom- 
mended the  passage  of  this  bill.  1  only  do  so  because  I  think,  upon 
a  question  of  principle,  this  bill  ought  not  to  pass. 

Irrespective  of  the  question  of  the  merit  or  demerit  of  the  officer 
whom  this  bill  seeks  to  restore,  there  is  a  question  of  public  policy 
underlying  all,  which  controls  my  judgment  in  my  vote  in  opposi- 
tion to  the  passage  of  this  bill,  and  that  is  this:  It  has  already  been 
announced  semi-officially  to  this  House  that  in  the  opinion  of  the 
Military  Committee  there  are  already  in  the  neighborhood  of  800 
supernumerary  officers  in  the  military  service  of  the  United  States. 

Mr.  Haskell.  I  have  but  a  word  to -say  in  regard  to  this  case. 
I  do  not  desire  to  enter  into  a  long  discussion  of  the  general  prin- 
ciples involved  in  it.  But  inasmuch  as  this  officer  at  'one  time  in 
his  life  was  in  command  of  Kansas  troops  upon  the  frontier  of  my 
State,  and  distinguished  himself  by  gallantry  and  soldierly  conduct 
in  several  engagements,  and  inasmuch  as  he  has  received  favorable 
mention  from  so  many  of  the  prominent  citizens  of  my  State,  I 
deem  it  to  be  but  fair,  when  a  bill  concerning  him  is  pending  in  this 
House,  to  make  some  statements  in  reference  to  the  causes  which 
led  to  his  dismissal  from  the  Army. 

I  state  as  a  fact  that  cannot  be  controverted,  that  notwithstand- 
ing the  action  of  that  court-martial,  this  officer  was  dismissed  from 
the  service  upon  a  set  of  charges  not  one  of  them  having  in  the 
most  remote  degree  one  single  particle  of  truth  in  it,  not  a  word. 

This  gentleman  is  a  Virginian,  a  young  man  who,  at  the  age  of 
sixteen,  entered  the  Army  of  the  Union,  who,  unaided  by  any  offi- 
cial influence  or  any  power  of  prominent  relatives,  worked  his  way 
up  to  an  honorable  position  in  the  regular  Army.  While  in  the 
discharge  of  his  military  duties  he  was  assailed  by  an  unjust  and 
absolutely  untrue  set  of  charges  and  dismissed  from  the  service. 

The  bill,  as  I  understand,  does  not  restore  him  arbitrarily  to  the 
Army.  However  just,  in  mv  opinion,  such  an  act  would  be,  that 
is  not  the  object  of  the  bill.  It  simply  permits  the  President  of  the 
United  States  to  appoint  him  to  his  old  rank  of  Captain  in  his  old 


439 

regiment  whenever  a  vacancy  shall  occur  in  that  regiment.  Abso- 
lute discretion  in  regard  to  the  appointment  is  lodged  with  the 
President.  That  is  all  there  is  in  the  bill.  Mr.  Armes  will  receive 
no  pay  under  the  bill  and  no  rank.  The  President  is  simply  author- 
ized, if  he  so  desires,  to  appoint  Mr.  Armes  whenever  a  vacancy  of 
his  rank  occurs  in  his  former  regiment. 

As  to  the  character  of  the  man,  nothing  can  be  said  against  it, 
and,  as  part  of  my  remarks,  I  desire  to  have  read  from  the  Clerk's 
desk  a  testimonial  from  the  former  Governor  of  my  State  and  from 
General  Hancock,  showing  the  services  of  this  officer  and  his  good 
character,  giving  him  only  a  just  meed  of  praise. 

1  ask  the  Clerk  to  read  first  the  letter  I  have  sent  up,  and  after- 
ward the  bill  pending  before  the  House. 

Now,  Mr.  Speaker,  knowing  as  I  do  the  gallant  conduct  of  this 
young  officer  upon  the  border  of  my  State  in  protecting  it  from 
the  ravages  of  the  Indians,  knowing  the  meritorious  service  that 
he  performed  for  my  people  in  protecting  their  homes,  and  know- 
ing that  he  was  dismissed  from  the  service  on  a  set  of  charges  not 
one  word  of  which  was  true,  I  believe  that  the  small  and  insignifi- 
cant compensation  allowed  him  by  the  terms  of  this  bill  is  an  act 
of  justice  that  the  House  will  not  hesitate  to  accord  him. 

Mr.  Crittenden.  Mr.  Speaker,  I  believe  that  the  report  of  the 
Committee  on  Military  Affairs  should  be  sanctioned  by  this 
House.  T  have  examined  with  some  care  the  evidence  that  has 
been  produced  against  Captain  Armes.  T  have  also  examined  the 
various  reports  that  have  been  made  by  three  or  four  committees, 
not  only  of  this  House,  but  of  the  Senate,  in  his  favor.  In  each 
case  the  committee  has  uniformly  reported  that  Captain  Armes 
should  be  restored  to  the  service  on  certain  conditions. 

Unfortunately  for  Captain  Armes,  he  fell  under  the  disapproba- 
tion of  a  certain  gentleman  whom  I  do  not  suppose  anyone  will 
undertake  to  defend  in  this  or  any  other  Congress.  This  gallant 
young  officer  was  persecuted  and  prosecuted  with  industrious  ha- 
tred by  one  who  was  then  Secretary  of  War — W.  W.  Belknap — 
whom  none  will  defend  now;  none  who  will  do  him  such  reverence 
now  as  in  former  days.  As  long  as  Belknap  was  Secretary  of  War 
young  Armes  was  oppressed  and  stood  no  chance  to  vindicate  him- 
self. It  would  have  been  well  for  that  Secretary  had  he  not  carried 
his  immense  power  in  harassing  this  young  officer  so  far  and  vex- 
ing him  so  long.  He  at  last  drove  him  to  despair,  and  that  officer, 
who  had  won  the  admiration  of  a  Hancock,  a  Palmer  and  his  asso- 
ciate officers  on  the  bloodiest  battlefields,  turned  upon  the  Secre- 
tary and  unearthed  those  acts  and  charges  which  soon  drove  him 
from  power.  After  eight  years  of  suffering,  Congress  is  at  last 
about  to  do  justice  to  young  Armes.  He  should  be  restored  at 
once,  as  recommended  by  the  Committee.  Justice  is  often  slow, 
but  she  ever  travels  apace,  with  her  scales  evenly  balanced,  dealing 
cut  good  for  good  and  evil  for  evil.  Her  steps  may  be  checked  bv 
crime  and  wrong  for  a  time,  but,  as  sure  as  a  God  reigns,  she  will 

ntrwrarrl   onrl   rrrinrl  tr»  •nnwrlpr  tVinc^  •yvTin   r>r»r»r>cp 


440 


Mr.  Chairman,  I  call  the  attention  of  this  House  to  what  General 
Hancock  said  of  Captain  Armes.  The  name  of  Hancock  com- 
mands the  warmest  respect  of  every  American  citizen.  He  was  a 
true,  bold,  steady  and  brilliant  fighter  on  the  battlefield,  and  since 
peace  has  returned  to  our  land  he  has  been  as  true,  bold  and  sturdy 
a  follower  of  the  law.  A  true  soldier  always  makes  a  true  citizen. 

Captain  Armes  was  convicted,  I  say,  by  the  persecution  of  the 
Secretary  of  War  upon  the  evidence  of  four  men  and  a  woman  of 
bad  repute.  Three  of  the  men  were  discharged  from  the  public 
service  and  sent  to  the  penitentiary;  as  to  the  fourth,  I  know  not 
where  he  is,  but  he  was  of  equally  bad  character.  Are  we  to  cast 
this  cloud  of  odium  upon  this  young  officer  on  the  testimony  of 
such  characters,  merely  to  accommodate  the  past  prejudices  of  a 
retired  Cabinet  officer?  I  hope  not..  I  say  for  one  I  will  not  do  it 
by  my  vote,  unless  that  evidence  is  corroborated  by  other  evidence 
than  that  of  these  five  notorious  and  disreputable  characters.  I 
will  stand  by  the  report  of  the  Committee.  If  Captain  Armes  is 
restored  to  his  military  character  it  will  be  but  a  simple  act  of 
simple  justice,  much  to  our  credit  as  fair  and  impartial  lawmakers, 
unmoved  by  other  impulses  than  right  and  justice. 

Mr.  Frye.  I  wish  only  to  say  this,  that  I  have  read  wath  care 
every  word  of  the  report  of  the  Military  Committee  on  this  case. 
Many  gentlemen  have  it  before  them,  and  there  is  no  minority  re- 
port; and  I  say  that  when  gentlemen  of  this  House  read  the  state- 
ment of  facts  reported  by  this 


Committee  there  ought  not  to 
linger  the  shadow  of  a  single 
doubt  as  to  the  merits  of  the 
case.  Tf  these  facts  are  true 
that  this  Committee  have  re- 
ported they  would  be  suffi- 
cient to  grant  a  new  trial  in 
any  criminal  case  that  was 
ever  tried  in  this  country.  Tf 
the  reported  facts  are  true — 
and  of  course  we  must  accept 
them  as  true,  there  being  no 
minority  report — why,  under 
the  sun,  any  man  in  this 
House  can  vote  against  this 
little  meed  of  justice  which 
this  Committee  so  carefullv 
and  euardedlv  recommend 
should  be  granted  to  this  man 
who  has  been  thus  abused 
by  perjurers,  murderers  and 
burglars,  as  the  Committee 
show,  T  cannot  for  the  life  of 
1  hope  that  the  Mouse  will  sustain  the  report  of  the  Com- 


LKV 


I'.    MAIHII. 

me  see. 

miltee  with  unanimity. 


441 

Colonel  Maish's  report  was  read  during  the  proceedings. 
I  felt  impelled  to  submit  the  following : 

Washington,  D.  C.,  April  15,  1878. 

Sir — In  answer  to  the  communication  of  Col.  B.  H.  Grierson, 
Tenth  U.  S.  Cavalry,  protesting  against  the  restoration  of  any  offi- 
cer to  his  regiment,  no  matter  how  unjust  his  dismissal  may  have 
been,  which  was  referred  to  your  Committee,  I  have  the  honor  to 
call  attention  to  the  fact  that  the  Colonel  does  not  mention  my 
name,  nor  does  he  directly  or  indirectly  make  any  charges  against 
me  as  a  soldier  or  a  gentleman. 

This  was  as  fully  known  in  my  regiment  as  it  is  now  to  you,  and 
yet  Colonel  Grierson  asked  you  to  deny  me  simple  justice  for  the 
reason  that  he  does  not  want  any  officer  restored  to  his  regiment. 
This  certainly  is  not  sufficient  even  to  justify  Colonel  Grierson  in 
writing  his  protest,  and  will,  of  course,  have  no  weight  with  your 
Committee.  I  will  here  take  the  liberty  of  asking  whether  or  not 
it  is  advisable  for  commanding  officers  of  regiments  to  urge  the 
Secretary  of  War,  the  General  of  the  Army  and  the  Adjutant-Gen- 
eral, in  the  language  of  Colonel  Grierson's  protest,  to  use  their 
influence  to  procure  or  prevent  legislation  that  a  Committee  of 
Congress  has  determined  upon. 

Does  not  Colonel  Grierson  request  these  high  officers  to  lobby 
against  the  bill  you  have  reported  favorably  to  the  Senate  for  the 
relief  of  Captain  Foulk,  Lieutenant  Spencer  and  myself? 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  very  respectfully, 

G.  A.  ARMES. 
To  the  Hox.  GEO.  E.  SPENCER, 

Chairman  Military  Committee  U.  S.  Senate. 

April  1 6,  1878. 

While  talking  to  Senator  Johnson  last  evening  he  told  me  he 
understood  that  Senator  Conkling  had  been  requested  by  Gen- 
eral Grant  to  do  what  he  could  to  defeat  my  bill  in  the  Senate,  and 
with  the  aid  of  Senator  Edmunds  they  would  be  two  strong  men 
to  oppose ;  that  I  had  best  request  Senator  Spencer,  chairman  of 
the  Senate  Military  Committee,  to  have  a  private  talk  with  Sen- 
ator Conkling  before  my  bill  was  called  up  and  tn  and  prevent 
him  from  working  against  it.  I  took  his  advice,  calling  on  Senator 
Spencer  today,  who,  after  an  interview  with  Senator  Conkling, 
told  me  he  would  not  oppose  it ;  that  he  was  glad  to  know  both 
sides  of  the  question,  and  he  would  let  Senator  Edmunds  do  all 
the  fighting  as  far  as  he  was  concerned.  Senator  Spencer  also 
informed  me  that  the  Senate  had  decided  to  take  up  the  calendar 


442 

tomorrow,  and  for  me  to  be  on  hand  with  all  the  friends  I  could 
muster  to  help  carry  the  bill  through,  as  Senator  Edmunds  had 
made  great  preparations  to  defeat  it. 

April  1 8,  1878. 

Last  night  Senator  Spencer  told  me  to  be  on  hand  early  this 
morning;  that  he  had  also  had  a  long  talk  with  Senator  Elaine, 
who  had  promised  to  help  in  opposition  to  Senator  Edmunds.  I 
was  on  hand  at  n  o'clock,  and  at  1.30  P.  M.  the  bill  was  reached 
on  the  calendar,  when  Senator  Edmunds  of  Vermont  and  Sen- 
ator Plumb  of  Kansas  took  the  floor  against  it.  Senator  Maxey 
of  Texas  and  Senator  James  G.  Blaine  of  Maine  defended  the  bill 
in  opposition  to  Senators  Edmunds  and  Plumb.  After  a  lengthy 
discussion  on  the  floor  the  yeas  and  nays  were  ordered,  and  Sen- 
ator Blaine  carried  the  whole  Senate,  with  the  exception  of  six 
votes,  which  were  all  that  Senator  Edmunds  could  command.  Sen- 
ator Kellogg  of  Louisiana  took  an  active  part  in  my  behalf,  to- 
gether with  Senators  Conkling,  Conover,  Spencer,  Maxey,  Cock- 
rell  and,  in  fact,  all  the  Senate,  with  the  exception  of  Senators 
Edmunds,  Plumb,  Wadleigh,  Morrill,  Anthony  and  Davis  of 
Illinois.  I  was  so  overcome  with  joy  at  my  great  victory  that  T 
could  not  help  but  show  it,  and  have  been  the  subject  of  con- 
gratulation all  the  evening. 

The  proceedings  of  the  Senate  are  reported  as  follows  in  the 
Congressional  Record: 

Mr.  Maxey. — Mr.  President,  every  Committee  which  has  ex- 
amined this  case  as  lawyers  examine  a  case  has  arrived  at  the  same 
conclusion.  Congress  twice  arrived  at  the  same  conclusion,  once 
by  setting  aside  the  order  of  dishonorable  discharge  and  granting 
him  an  honorable  discharge;  next  a  bill  was  introduced,  what  for? 
To  restore  him  to  the  Army?  Not  at  all,  but  to  place  him  as  near 
as  may  be  where  he  was  before,  so  far  as  the  power  of  the  President 
is  concerned  to  promote  him.  With  the  laws  in  force  prohibiting 
promotion  except  by  seniority,  the  President,  if  he  believes  that 
wrong  and  injustice  have  been  done,  may  under  this  bill  nominate 
this  gentleman,  send  the  nomination  to  this  body,  and  then  it  will 
be  [or  the  Senate  to  say  whether  or  not  he  shall  be  confirmed.  Not 
a  dollar  of  pay  is  given,  but  it  simply  restores  him  as  near  as 
may  be. 

Mr.  President,  I  have  only  to  say  that  if  T  had  been  the  reviewing 
otticer  those  proceedings  never  would  have  received  my  sanction 

can  state  that  so  far  as  the  papers  have  been  shown  to  me  I  do 
not  believe  they  ever  did  pass  under  the  review  of  the  President  of 


443 

the  United  States,  although  the  law  was  mandatory  that  proceed- 
ings in  review  should  be  had  by  him,  and  his  order  and  decision 
made  thereon.  But  Congress  did,  as.  near  as  they  could,  attempt 
to  relieve  him.  They  ordered  an  honorable  discharge  to  be  granted 
him,  and  passed  another  bill,  which  is  exactly  the  same  as  the  one 
now  pending.  That  bill  passed  both  Houses.  Whether  designed 
on  the  part  of  the  President  or  not,  I  do  not  know,  but  being  at  a 
very  late  day  of  the  session,  it  failed  to  receive  the  approval  of  the 
President,  and  thereby  it  fell.  It  seems  to  me  that  this  is  simply  a 
case  of  pure,  naked  justice.  Some  may  have  thought  that  I  have 
bad  blood  toward  all  those  of  our  kith  and  kin  who  turned  against 
us.  No  such  feeling  can  actuate  me  in  this  case.  This  man  fought 
under  the  flag  of  the  Union  from  his  youth  up.  It  is  not  to  be  sup- 
posed that  I  would  have  bad  feelings  toward  him  on  that  account, 
or  that  that  would  specially  commend  him  to  me;  but  I  have  made 
this  defense  in  behalf  of  this  young  man  because  the  eternal  prin- 
ciples of  justice  ought  to  be  maintained.  All  we  can  do  is  to  re- 
store him  to  the  position  which  he  was  honorably  given,  and  of 
which  he  was  unjustly  deprived. 

Mr.  Edmunds.  Mr.  President,  there  seems  to  be  pretty  good 
reason  to  believe  from  the  statement  of  the  Senator  from  Texas 
that  the  judgment  of  this  court-martial  was  an  error,  although  it 
appears  that  the  other  people  who  accused  Armes  were  convicted 
and  that  the  people  whom  Armes  accused  were  convicted.  They 
were  convicted  all  around,  and  what  we  should  find  if  we  reviewed 
the  court-martial  proceedings  in  the  other  cases  as  to  their  regu- 
larity or  illegality  we  do  not  know.  I  am  not  making  these  re- 
marks as  preliminary  for  asking  that  this  case  go  over.  I  have  no 
objection  to  its  being  voted  upon.  But  the  danger  in  respect  of 
this  kind  of  legislation  is,  as  it  appears  to  me,  that  the  Congress 
of  the  United  States,  having  provided  by  courts-martial  to  try  mat- 
ters of  this  character,  and  regulated  all  their  proceedings  in  the 
Army,  just  as  we  do  in  private  affairs,  by  a  judicial  system,  now  is 
sitting  at  this  moment  as  a  court  of  review  of  the  findings  of  a 
court-martial  (not  upon  the  ground,  which  would  have  some  force 
in  it)  that  it  appears  to  us  that  the  members  of  that  court  were  cor- 
rupt, and  so  the  court  had  not  any  honest  jurisdiction,  because  they 
were  unfit  to  try  the  case,  but  because,  although  as  the  Committee 
say,  they  have  no  imputations  to  make  upon  the  officers  who  com- 
posed that  court-martial,  who  might  be  able  to  vindicate  them- 
selves if  they  had  a  hearing  possibly,  but  because  they  committed 
an  error.  That  is  a  very  dangerous  ground  for  legislation  to  stand 
upon.  In  the  history  of  this  Government,  and  respecting  men  now 
living,  there  are  no  doubt  thousands  of  cases  of  hardship,  of  error, 
where  injustice  has  been  done  to  gallant  men  by  the  error  of  a- 
court  deciding  against  them  when  it  ought  to  have  decided,  as  we 
might  think,  in  their  favor.  There  is  the  instrinsic  danger  of  steps 


444 

of  this  character.  Of  course,  this  proceeds  upon  the  principle  that 
it  is  a  part  of  the  business  and  the  duty  of  Congress  to  rectify  the 
errors  of  courts-martial,  not  to  rectify  their  wrongs  when  it  turns 
out  that  the  members  of  the  courts  were  themselves  prejudiced 
and  unfit  or  corrupt,  but  where,  as  in  this  case,  the  members  were 
upright,  the  court  was  duly  formed,  but  unhappily  for  the  victim 
made  a  mistake,  as  we  think.  Mr.  President,  I  do  not  wish  to  com- 
mit myself  to  that  ground.  I  must  be  excused  from  doing  so,  as 
much  as  my  sympathies  have  been  affected  by  the  statement  of  the 
Senator  from  Texas. 

Now,  let  me  come  to  a  second  point. 

Mr.  Maxey.  Will  the  Senator  from  Vermont  permit  me  a  mo- 
ment? 

Air.  Edmunds.  If  it  does  not  come  out  of  my  five  minutes,  Mr. 
President. 

Mr.  Maxey.  The  Senator  knows  very  well  that  T  dislike  to  in- 
terrupt anybody.  The  record  does  not  appear  in  the  report,  but  it 
appears  in  the  proceedings  that  Captain  Armes  upon  trial  objected 
to  one  of  the  members  of  the  court  because  he  had  expressed  an 
ooinion  in  regard  to  him  and  his  case.  That  objection  was  one  of 
the  most  serious  charcter;  he  had  said  that 'he  would  not  believe 
him  on  oath,  and  so  on.  The  court  overruled  the  objection  and 
permitted  the  trial  to  go  on.  I  do  not  think  that  could  occur  in 
civilized  life. 

Mr.  Edmunds.  Mr.  President,  that  very  often  happens  in  civil 
life,  where ^a  man  objects  to  a  judge,  but  it  unhappily  happens  that 
the  Committee  have  told  us  from  their  investigation'that  they  have 
no  reflections  to  make  upon  the  court  except  that  they  committed 
an  error. 

Mr.  Maxey.  The  Committee  do  not  reflect  upon  the  honor  of 
the  court.  What  we  complain  of  is  that  it  was  an  error  of  judg- 
ment. 

Mr.  Edmunds.  But  the  Committee  has  not  stated  in  its  report, 
if  I  correctly  understood  it,  and  T  listened  very  attentively,  that  it 
finds  that  this  objection  to  this  member  of  'the  court  was  well 
founded,  because  the  objection  if  well  founded  was  that  he  was  a 
scoundrel,  that  he  was  a  man  whose  oath  to  try  that  case  honestlv 
could  not  be  believed.  Perhaps  that  officer  would  like  to  have  a 
fair  hearing  in  this  court  of  review  before  we  condemn  him. 

Mr  Maxey.  T  do  not  think  the  Senator  understood  me  I  said 
that  this  member  of  the  court  so  charged  Armes,  not  that  Armes 
had  charged  him. 

Air.  Edmunds.     Ah,  very  well. 

Mr.  Maxey.  And  the  point  Armes  made  was  that  this  member 
ic  court  had  alreadv  formed  an  opinion  and  had  expressed  such 

opinion  and,  therefore,  was  incompetent,  which  in  mv  country 
t  least  would  be  a  very  good  objection. 


445 

Mr.  Blaine.  Mr.  President,  I  think  the  ground  taken  by^the 
Senator  from  Vermont  proves  too  much.  If  he  objects  to  having 
the  findings  of  courts-martial  ever  reviewed  by  Congress,  I  think 
he  would  take  off  one  of  the  most  salutary  restraints  upon  the 
license  to  which  courts-martial  might  run  that  now  exist.  There 
is  no  service,  military  or  naval,  in  any  country  that  does  not  have 
a  little  bit  of  tendency  to  run  into  cliques,  sometimes  a  very  great 
one,  and  there  have  been  instances  in  which  very  grave  injustice 
has  been  done  to  the  best  of  officers  under  such  influences.  There 
is  no  danger  that  Congress  is  going  to  launch  forth  into  the  gen- 
eral business  of  reviewing  courts-martial.  From  the  foundation 
of  the  Government  to  this  time  very  few  officers  have  been  restored 
by  any  action  of  Congress — I  mean  very  few  in  comparison  with 
those  who  have  suffered  at  the  hands  of  courts-martial.  At  the 
same  time  I  have  no  doubt  that  the  power  of  Congress  to  do  it 
and  its  entire  discretion  to  do  it  at  any  time  has  been  a  very  wise 
and  salutary  restraint  upon  the  care  and  circumspection  with  which 
courts-martial  are  conducted,  and  if  you  once  establish  it  that,  no 
matter  what  finding  of  a  court-martial  may  happen  to  get  ap- 
proved, there  is  no  possible  appeal  here,  I  say  God  help  some  officers 
of  the  Army  in  future  years. 

Now,  the  fact  that  this  man  got  a  certificate  of  good  character, 
an  honorable  discharge  in  1874,  as  the  Senator  says,  only  proves  to 
my  mind  that  very  gross  injustice  was  done  him.  The  very  fact 
that  Congress  granted  that  proves  the  injustice  of  the  court-mar- 
tial. You  could  not  possibly  have  granted  that  without  absolutely 
trampling  on  it,  and  by  that  very  act  saying  it  was  unjust.  If  we 
are  willing  to  say  that  a  thing  was  unjust,  do  not  let  us  stop  at  half 
measures.  If  we  put  it  as  a  matter  of  record  that  this  man  was  en- 
titled to  an  honorable  discharge,  then  surely  he  ought  not  to  lie 
under  the  censure  of  having  been  guilty  of  so  grave  an  offense  as 
to  call  for  that  punishment  which  to  a  soldier  is  equal  to  death, 
being  cashiered. 

I  do  not  pretend  to  have  examined  with  any  very  great  care  the 
case  of  Mr.  Armes,  although  I  have  casually  known  of  it  for  a  great 
many  years ;  but  we  are  all  more  or  less  governed  by  the  findings 
of  committees,  and  we  have  to  trust  them.  1  find  that  this  case 
has  been  examined  with  the  utmost  care  by  Committees  in  both 
branches  of  Congress  without  the  slightest  regard  to  party.  I  find 
that  such  men  as  Powell  Clayton,  George  E.  Spencer,  James  K. 
Kelly,  P.  M.  B.  Young,  W.  G.  Donnan,  J.  M.  Thornburgh,  John 
B.  Hawley  (the  present  Assistant  Secretary  of  the  Treasury),  John 
Coburn  (for  a  long  time  chairman  of  the  Committee  on  Military 
Affairs  of  the  other  House  and  one  of  the  most  careful  men  I  have 
ever  known  in  legislative  affairs),  Charles  Albright,  B.  Wadleigh 
(present  Senator  in  this  body),  J.  W.  Nesmith,  Eppa  Htmton, 
Lewis  B.  Gtmckel,  Joseph  R.  Hawley  and  C.  D.  McDougall  have 


446 

been  in  favor  of  this  meaure  in  the  past.    You  have  had  favorable 

report  fro  in  those  who  have  given  the  utmost  care  and  attention 
to  this  case,  and  I  have  no  doubt  :ha:  it  would  be  a  very  serious 
injustice  to  this  man  to  deny  this  relief:  an  injustice  that  we  can- 
not afford,  not  simply  with  regard  to  him,  but  with  regard  to  our- 
selves and  still  more  with  regard  10  the  vast  number  of  officers 
who  in  the  future  in  the  Army  and  in  the  Xavy  are  liable  to  suffer 
from  causes  which  we  need  not  specify,  and  which  we  may  not  go 
into,  iron:  the  summary  punishment  of  courts-martial.  It  is  a 
wholesome  and  good  thing  to  hold  the  power  of  review  in  Con- 
gress, to  exercise  it.  of  course,  always  with  discretion,  but  in  meri- 
torious cases  to  exercise  it  wiiii  aosoiute  power. 

The  following  extracts  arc  from  the  ll'&shingt&n  Post  and  Union 
of  April  19,  1678: 

senator  r  res:-on  Beiisanus,  r'lumb  made  another  great  speech 
yesteroay  in  opposition  to  the  bill  to  restore  Captain  Armes  to  the 
Army.  On  this  occasion  Mr.  r'lumb  was  able  to  muster  six  nega- 
tives. His  orator,  is  improving.  Generally,  when  he  makes  a 


i  ::e  DLL  to  restore  Capt.  ueo.  A.  Armes  to  his  position  as  Cap- 
tain 01  cavalry  has  passed  both  Houses,  in  spite  of  the  lobbying 
etiorts  01  a~  Belicnap  s  tnends.  captain  Armes  was  most  out- 
rageous.y  treated  by  Belknap,  but  he  has  been  vindicated. 

To  resume  my  diary : 

April  19,  1878. 

Immediately  aner  breakfast  called  on  Senator  Blaine  to  thank 
..in:  :or  t:;e  active  ana  nob.e  pan  he  took  in  coming  to  my  rescue 
as  he  did.  He  appearec  to  feel  proud  of  his  grand  victor}-  in  de- 
leating  Senator  Edmunds,  who  represented  the  administration, 
and  iie  assured  me  that  1  could  rely  on  him  in  the  future  for  any 
assistance  I  might  need. 

April  20,  1878. 

Met  Mr.  Frederick  Severe  last  evening,  who  gave  me  a  card 
requesting  the  Secretary  of  War  to  make  my  case  special  and 
assist  me  in  getting  my  commission  as  soon  as  possible.  I  thanked 
and  congratulated  all  who  had  defended  and  assisted  me.  This 
has  been  a  very  lucky  -lay.  as  1  closed  the  trade  with  Captain  How- 
gate  and  Mr.  Evans,  resulting-  in  a  commission  of  several  thou- 
sand dollars. 


447 

April  22,  1878. 

I  am  everywhere  congratulated  on  the  success  of  my  bill.  Sen- 
ator Paddock  of  Nebraska  got  Mr.  Ferry  to  sign  it  and  Mr.  Hazel- 
ton  of  Wisconsin  and  Mr.  Raney  of  South  Carolina  to  accompany 
me  to  the  President  to  get  his  signature  to  the  bill ;  so  it  is  now  a 
law,  and  all  I  lack  is  my  nomination  and  confirmation  to  be  in 
active  service. 

April  23,  1878. 

Got  a  certified  copy  of  my  bill  from  the  State  Department,  took 
it  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  who  said  he  would  have  my  nomina- 
tion made  out  and  take  it  to  the  President  at  once.  Called  on 
Mr.  Rogers  at  the  White  House,  who  assured  me  he  would  get 
the  nomination  before  the  Senate  as  speedily  as  possible. 

A  letter  that  had  much  to  do  with  my  restoration  follows : 


X2 


«=>r: 


4 


•'y    ^-/ 


<c 


A 


£- 


"<        tf-. 


-_, 


>  : 


/ 


449 

April  24,  1878? 

Went  to  the  White  House  this  A.  M.,  and  was  disappointed  to 
iind  that  President  Hayes  had  gone  out  of  the  city,  failing  to  send 
the  nomination  in  before  leaving.  I  then  went  to  the  War  De- 
partment and  learned  that  General  Townsend  had  my  case  to  re- 
port upon,  and  that  there  was  no  show  to  get  anything  done  until 
the  President's  return. 

April  26,  1878. 

Drove  by  Colonel  Rogers'  house  this  morning.  He  got  in  my 
carriage,  and  we  drove  to  the  White  House.  He  appears  to  be  a 
good  friend  of  mine,  doing  what  he  can  to  urge  my  matter  along. 
He  gave  me  a  cordial  invitation  to  come  to  the  White  House  to 
see  him  whenever  I  felt  like  it  without  any  ceremony,  showing  a 
great  interest  in  my  behalf.  Among  the  letters  of  congratulation 
received  was  one  from  Col.  James  G.  Faulkner,  who  was  our  min- 
ister to  France  at  the  outbreak  of  the  Rebellion  and  is  now  a  mem- 
ber of  Congress  from  West  Virginia.  He  lives  like  a  king  at 
Boydsville,  his  beautiful  home  in  Martinsburg.  He  congratulates 
not  only  me,  but  all  the  friends  who  assisted  my  restoration,  and 
extends  a  cordial  invitation  to  them  to  his  house.  There  he  will 
entertain  Congressmen,  Senators,  the  President  and  all  who  took 
an  active  part  in  my  behalf. 

April  30,  1878. 

While  at  the  White  House  Postmaster-General  Key  informed 
me  that  my  case  had  been  referred  to  the  Judge-Advocate-General 
for  his  report. 

May  i,  1878. 

Gen.  T.  T.  Crittenden  went  with  me  to  see  the  Judge-Advocate- 
General  this  morning.  We  learned  that  Major  Winthrop,  who 
was  directed  to  make  the  report,  had  made  one  favorable  to  me. 

May  2,  1878. 

This  A.  M.  I  met  the  Secretary  of  War  at  the  President's  house. 
After  a  short  talk  I  walked  with  him  to  the  War  Department.  He 
assured  me  that  he  would  bring  up  my  matter  in  the  Cabinet 
meeting  tomorrow. 

May  3,  1878. 

I  went  to  the  War  Department  and  sent  my  card  in  to  the  Sec- 
retary of  War,  who  sent  word  to  me  that  my  name  would  go  to 

29 


450 

the  Senate  on  Monday.  Met  General  Coburn  of  the  House,  who 
has  proven  one  of  my  strongest  friends  and  one  of  the  most  re- 
liable and  honest  men  I  have  met.  Received  a  telegram  from 
Hon.  Charles  J.  Faulkner  from  Boydsville,  W.  Va.,  requesting  me 
to  invite  President  Hayes  and  as  many  of  his  personal  friends  as 
he  could  induce  to  come  with  him  to  his  house  to  dine  and  be 
entertained  as  a  reward  for  their  friendship  to  me.  Last  night  I 
called  on  President  Hayes,  but  was  informed  that  he  was  en- 
gaged with  some  friends  and  impossible  for  me  to  see  him.  I  in- 
sisted that  my  card  should  be  sent  up,  when  his  son,  Webb  Hayes, 
came  down  to  know  if  there  was  anything  he  could  do,  as  his 
father  was  very  busy.  I  explained  about  the  telegram  I  had  re- 
ceived from  Mr.  Faulkner,  handing  him  the  telegram,  which  he 
carried  up  to  his  father,  who  excused  himself  to  his  friends  and 
came  down  stairs.  Inviting  me  out  on  the  portico,  he  sat  down, 
engaging  in  a  long  conversation  in  regard  to  his  war  experience, 
saying  that  there  was  no  place  on  earth  he  would  rather  visit 
than  that  of  Hon.  Charles  J.  Faulkner  and  accept  of  his  hospitality ; 
but  under  the  circumstances,  Congress  being  about  to  adjourn, 
it  was  impossible  for  him  to  leave  the  city.  Before  parting  he 
placed  my  hand  on  his  head,  requesting  me  to  feel  the  furrow 
that  a  bullet  had  made  through  his  skull  while  in  an  engagement 
on  Mr.  Faulkner's  estate,  remarking  that  to  visit  such  a  man  un- 
der the  circumstances  would  be  a  very  great  pleasure  to  him  if 
it  were  at  all  possible  to  get  away.  Mr.  Hayes  became  so  in- 
terested, recalling  so  many  incidents  that  had  passed,  that  he 
seemed  to  forget  the  friends  he  had  left  upstairs,  who,  I  reminded 
him,  might  have  more  important  business  than  I.  He  replied 
there  was  nothing  so  important  as  to  talk  over  the  past.  Thank- 
ing him  for  his  many  kindnesses  to  me  and  shaking  hands  with 
him,  T  left  him,  and  he  returned  to  his  friends. 

Boydsville,  W.  Va.,  May  4,  1878. 

The  President,  members  and  Senators  whom  T  had  invited 
at  Mr.  Faulkner's  request  to  make  him  a  visit  not  being  able  to 
leave  their  duties,  I  invited  Admiral  Stanley  of  the  Navy  to  ac- 
company me  here.  We  arrived  at  TO  P.  M.."  and  were  met  at  the 
lepot  by  Capt.  Charles  J.  Faulkner  with  a  carriage.  We  were 
rlriven  to  his  father's  mansion,  and  there  welcomed  and  enter- 
tained in  the  old  Virginia  style  with  mint  juleps,  etc.  We  were 


then  invited  to  a  table  supplied  with  every  delicacy,  from  which 
we  did  not  rise  until  1 1  o'clock. 

Boydsville,  W.  Va.,  May  5,  1878. 

Reaching-  our  rooms  at  the  late  hour  of  2  o'clock  A.  M.  for  the 
purpose  of  retiring,  we  found  a  silver  tray  on  a  center  table  in  each 
room  which  was  loaded  with  refreshments.  We  had  beautiful  and 
spacious  rooms,  to  which  we  were  shown  by  an  old-time  servant. 
The  bedsteads  were  the  old-fashioned  canopied  rosewood  or  wal- 
nut, which  were  made  accessible  by  steps.  This  morning  when 
called  to  breakfast  we  found  our  boots  polished  ready  for  us  to 
don.  During  the  afternoon  Colonel  Faulkner  took  us  in  his  car- 
nage all  through  the  surrounding  country,  which  is  a  most  in- 
teresting drive. 

Washington,  D.  C,  May  6,  1878. 

After  breakfast  Capt.  Charles  J.  Faulkner  (since  United  States 
Senator),  the  colonel's  son,  took  us  all  through  the  armory,  to 
the  springs  and  to  all  places  of  interest,  and  after  an  elaborate 
lunch  we  were  driven  to  the  depot.  We  were  delighted  with  the 
royal  entertainment  we  had  receivd. 

May  8,  1878. 

I  called  on  Senator  M.  C.  Butler  of  South  Carolina  today,  who 
told  me  he  would  see  the  Secretary  of  War  and  President  about 
my  nomination. 

May  9,  1878. 

I  went  to  the  President's  house  today,  where  I  received  word 
that  my  name  had  been  sent  to  the  Senate,  and  was  advised  to  go 
there  immediately  and  look  after  it.  After  reaching  the  Capitol 
Senator  Spencer  and  General  Butler  informed  me  that  they 
thought  there  was  no  doubt  about  my  being  confirmed  imme- 
diately. I  learned  that  I  was  confirmed. 

May  n,  1878. 

Went  to  the  War  Department  to  see  Mr.  Crosby,  the  chief 
clerk,  who  told  me  that  he  had  orders  to  have  the  commission 
made  out  at  once,  which  he  handed  to  me.  I  took  it  to  President 
Hayes,  who  signed  it.  I  was  immediately  sworn  in,  and  am  now 
a  Captain  on  the  active  list  of  the  Army. 

May  12,  1878. 

Yesterday,  after  I  had  received  and  accepted  my  commission, 
I  called  on  the  Secretary  of  War  to  thank  him  for  his  kindness  in 


452 

being  so  prompt  in  signing  the  necessary  papers  and  the  privi- 
leges he  had  granted  me  in  the  matter.  General  Burnett,  Senator 
Spencer,  Judge  Noah  and  Colonel  Crittenden  dined  with  me 
today,  and  a  happier  party  I  do  not  believe  ever  sat  at  a  table. 
All  seemed  as  glad  of  my  success  as  I  am  myself. 

May  13,  1878. 

General  Crittenden  called  with  me  on  the  Secretary  of  War 
and  arranged  that  I  might  delay  reporting  to  my  regiment  until 
June  10,  the  Secretary  fixing  the  time  himself,  and  showed  his 
friendship  by  offering  many  courtesies.  I  did  not  realize  that  I 
had  so  many  friends  until  my  bill  passed  doing  me  justice. 

Fifth  Avenue  Hotel,  New  York  City,  May  16,  1878. 

Arrived  here  at  7  o'clock  this  A.  M.  After  breakfast  I  pur- 
chased my  uniform  and  called  on  General  Hancock  at  Fort  Co- 
lumbus, who  congratulated  me  and  seemed  as  much  interested 
as  if  I  were  of  his  own  family. 

May  28,  1878. 

Called  on  President  Hayes  today  and  thanked  him  for  his  many 
courtesies.  He  wished  me  success,  and  assured  me  that  if  he 
could  do  anything  for  me  I  could  rely  upon  him.  I  have  made  up 
my  mind  that  he  is  the  most  honorable  of  men. 

New  York  City,  June  13,  1878. 

Arrived  here  at  7  A.  M.  and  reported  to  Major  Bush,  who  told 
me  to  get  ready  to  go  by  the  steamer  on  Saturday  via  Key  West 
and  Galveston.  I  immediately  called  on  General  Hancock  and 
staff,  where  I  met  Col.  J.  F.  Kent  (now  Brigadier-General),  who 
is  going  in  command  of  the  detachment. 

On  the  Atlantic,  June  15,  1878. 

We  left  New  York  at  8  this  A.  M.  on  the  steamer  Texas.  Col- 
onel Kent,  my  commanding  officer  has  extended  every  courtesy 
possible  to  make  us  comfortable. 

In  the  Gulf  of  Mexico,  Ninety  Miles 

from  Key  West,  June  21,  1878. 

We  had  a  calm  sea  all  the  way  from  New  York  and  a  splendid 
trip.  Arrived  at  Key  West  at  4  o'clock  this  A.  M.,  where  the  ves- 
sel remained  several  hours,  giving  us  an  opportunity  to  visit  all 
the  places  of  interest. 


453 

Galveston,  Texas,  June  22,  1878. 

At  2  o'clock  P.  M.  we  began  to  sight  land,  and  by  4  o'clock 
were  on  the  bar  about  ten  miles  out.  After  landing  I  received 
orders  to  go  to  Fort  Griffin  instead  of  Richardson. 

Fort  Worth,  June  27,  1878. 

Met  Col.  E.  J.  Strang,  the  Quartermaster,  who  had  wagons 
fixed  up  for  me  to  go  to  Fort  Griffin,  and  not  having  an  ambulance 
or  spring  wagon,  I  telegraphed  to  headquarters  at  San  Antonio 
for  one,  but  not  being  able  to  get  an  order  for  it,  I  purchased  a 
strong  ambulance  and  harness. 

June  28,  1878. 

Colonel  Strang,  the  Quartermaster,  was  very  kind  and  obliging 
in  fixing  up  seats  in  the  ambulance  and  putting  it  in  a  condition  to 
use  during  the  long  journey. 

Rocky  Creek,  Texas,  July  i,  1878. 

The  mules  gave  out  last  night,  and  Lucy  and  the  children  were 
obliged  to  sleep  in  the  wagon.  One  of  the  most  terrible  rain- 
storms I  ever  knew  came  up  about  4  o'clock,  and  when  we  reached 
this  creek  found  it  impossible  to  cross  it,  so  we  have  gone  into 
camp. 

Fort  Griffin,  Texas,  July  4,  1878. 

We  left  Hubbard  creek  about  7  o'clock  this  A.  M.  Had  a  good 
road  all  through  until  we  reached  the  creek  near  the  post,  which 
was  so  full  of  mud  that  it  seemed  almost  impossible  to  cross  it 
with  teams.  While  in  the  center  my  ambulance  stuck  fast,  break- 
ing off  the  tongue  and  leaving  Lucy  and  the  babies  in  the  ambu- 
lance. It  took  us  several  hours  to  get  them  all  out.  Upon  our 
arrival  here  we  were  met  by  Colonel  Lincoln,  who  invited  us  to 
his  quarters,  introducing  us  to  Mrs.  Lincoln,  who  made  us  feel  at 
home,  assigning  us  to  a  nicely  furnished  room  and  preparing  a 
splendid  dinner. 

Near  Mason  Creek,  Texas,  July  8,  1878. 

We  had  breakfast  at  8  o'clock  this  A.  M.  and  drove  into  Fort 
Concho  at  TO.  We  were  met  by  Colonel  Grierson,  who  pretended 
to  be  very  polite,  shaking  hands  and  introducing  me  to  the  Quar- 
termaster and  several  others  whom  I  had  never  seen  before. 
However,  he  had  neglected  to  have  any  preparations  made  to  re- 
ceive us,  in  spite  of  my  telegraphing  ahead  the  day  that  we  ex- 


454 

pected  to  arrive.  After  requesting  that  I  be  assigned  to  quarters, 
he  finally  directed  that  Lieutenant  Maxell's  room  and  kitchen  be 
turned  over  to  us  until  transportation  could  be  gotten  ready  to 
take  us  to  Fort  Stockton,  several  hundred  miles  further  west, 
where  my  company  was  stationed.  Upon  calling  at  the  postoffice 
for  my  mail  I  was  informed  that  Lieutenant  Smithers  had  or- 
dered it  all  forwarded  to  Fort  Stockton,  a  very  mean  transaction, 
knowing,  as  he  did,  that  we  were  expected  here  and  would  be  very 
anxious  to  receive  news  from  home,  having  directed  all  our  mail 
to  be  sent  to  this  post. 

Camp  Eighteen  Miles  West  of  Concho,  July  31,  1878. 
Captain  N.  S.  Constable,  the  Quartermaster,  was  very  kind  in 
getting  us  started  this  morning,  and  had  us  supplied  with  every- 
thing necessary  for  our  comfort.  Major  McLaughlin,  in  com- 
mand of  the  detachment,  is  about  as  mean  a  man  as  I  ever  served 
under. 

Camp  on  Concho  River,  about  Forty  Miles 

West  of  Fort  Concho,  August  i,  1878. 

Major  McLaughlin  ordered  the  command  to  move  at  6  o'clock 
this  A.  M.,  and  we  had  to  get  up  very  early  so  as  to  be  through 
breakfast  in  time.  The  heat  has  been  terrible  all  day  for  a  march 
through  these  dusty  and  sandy  roads,  the  air  being  filled  with 
mosquitos. 

Camp  on  the  Pecos,  August  4,  1878. 

All  our  kegs,  demijohns  and  canteens  were  filled  with  water 
last  night,  as  orders  compelled  us  to  start  at  4  o'clock  this  A.  M., 
but  it  was  almost  5  o'clock  before  we  pulled  out.  The  country  is 
full  of  rocks  and  the  mountains  very  difficult  to  cross  over.  We 
have  to  lock  both  hind  wheels  of  the  vehicles  in  going  down  the 
steep  mountains. 

August  n,  1878. 

I  was  at  the  reveille  roll-call  this  A.  M.  and  met  Major  Andrew 
Geddes,  who  spent  last  evening  at  my  quarters. 

August  12,  1878. 

While  at  the  post-trader's  last  evening  who  should  drop  in  but 
J.  W.  Clarke,  to  whom  I  loaned  a  thousand  dollars  thirteen  years 
ago,  which  remains  unpaid.  He  is  on  his  way  to  San  Antonio, 
stopping  over  here  for  the  night.  I  went  on  duty  as  Officer  of  the 


455 

Day  for  the  first  time  in  eight  years,  relieving  Lieutenant  Beck, 
and  I  was  also  put  on  a  board  to  examine  commissary  stores 

October  5,  1878. 

Since  my  arrival  at  this  post  my  duties  have  consisted  of  drilling 
my  company,  scouting  and  shooting  at  targets — the  same  thing 
over  and  over  almost  every  day,  going  on  board  to  survey  and  on 
duty  as  Officer  of  the  Day,  which  has  occupied  the  whole  of  my 
time.  I  have  looked  after  every  detail,  having  been  watched  by 
several  officers,  who  have  been  playing  the  spy  for  General  Grier- 
son  and  Captain  Smithers.  So  far,  however,  they  have  not  been 
able  to  lind  any  grounds  for  charges. 

October  8,  1878. 

Last  night,  a  short  time  before  1 1  o'clock,  Lucy  presented  me 
with  a  fine  boy,  whom  I  at  once  named  George  Kerr  Armes. 

October  18,  1878. 

Major  Geddes  relieved  me  as  Officer  of  the  Day  this  morning. 
Major  McLaughlin  tried  to  find  fault  about  the  detailed  men,  but 
discovered  no  grounds  for  charges.  He  sent  Lieutenant  Glenn 
with  orders  to  take  the  blinds  off  the  windows  of  my  quarters,  a 
very  mean  act  for  a  commanding  officer. 

Fort  Stockton,  October  19,  1878. 

About  TO  o'clock  today  Lieut.  O.  G.  Sweet,  Post  Adjutant, 
came  to  my  quarters  with  his  sword  buckled  on  and  handed  me  a 
special  order  from  Major  McLaughlin  placing  me  in  close  arrest 
(Arrest  No.  20).  So  far  I  have  been  unable  to  find  out  any  reason 
for  it. 

Fort  Stockton,  October  20,  1878. 

Major  Geddes,  Dr.  Hall  and  Lieut.  H.  B.  Quinby  called  to  see 
me  today,  and  are  very  indignant  at  Major  McLaughlin's  action, 
knowing  there  are  no  grounds  for  such  an  arbitrary  act. 

Fort  Stockton,  October  26,  1878. 

Major  Keyes  spent  last  evening  with  us.  He  was  as  full  as  a 
tick — his  usual  condition.  I  made  a  demand  of  Colonel  Mc- 
Laughlin for  release  or  to  be  furnished  with  a  copy  of  the  charges, 
and  this  evening  T  was  served  with  a  copy  of  manufactured 
malicious  charges  that  won't  hold  water. 


456 

Fort  Stockton,  November  TO,  1878. 

Lieutenant  Easterly  came  in  this  morning  with  the  informa- 
tion that  Major  McLaughlin  had  ordered  him  not  to  allow  any  of 
the  enlisted  men  to  do  any  duty  around  my  quarters.  He  is  doing 
everything-  in  his  power  to  make  things  unpleasant  for  us. 

Fort  Stockton,  November  15,  1878. 

A  telegram  came  from  General  Vincent  last  night  giving  me 
the  limits  of  the  post,  together  with  the  request  for  an  explanation, 
which  I  sent  him,  as  follows  : 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  November  14,  1878. 
Adjutant-General,  Department  of  Texas, 

San  Antonio,  Texas, 
Through  Post  Headquarters: 

In  answer  to  your  telegram,  I3th  inst.,  received  at  2.20  this 
P.  M.,  I  submit  briefly  the  facts  as  nearly  as  I  can  remember  with- 
out an  opportunity  of  referring  to  records: 

The  whole  mistake  seems  to  have  been  caused  by  Dennis'  name 
appearing  on  guard  report  instead  of  Dean.  The  Adjutant  sug- 
gested to  me  to  enter  under  head  of  remarks  in  guard  report  book 
the  names  of  the  men  who  took  the  place  of  two  sick  men.  I 
looked  at  the  pass,  which  I  had  put  in  that  morning,  October  18, 
for  the  old  guard,  and  saw  Dean's  name,  and  not  Dennis',  and 
knowing  Dean  was  one  of  the  old  guard,  and  knowing  Parker  had 
reported  to  me  the  night  before  as  being  sick,  and  Dennis'  name 
being  on  the  company  morning  sick  report,  I  supposed  the  ser- 
geant of  the  guard  had  neglected  to  report  to  me  or  to  put  his 
name  on  the  guard  report.  He  had  not  reported  to  me  whether 
he  had  obtained  anyone  in  place  of  Parker  and  Dennis,  who  had 
been  relieved  by  Dean  or  Dickcrson,  as  the  names  of  Parker  and 
Dennis  were  on  the  guard  report  and  sick  book,  and  without  call- 
ing the  sergeant  of  the  guard  T  made  the  entry  in  the  guard  report, 
as  appeared  to  me  correct. 

Since  my  arrest  I  have  questioned  the  sergeant  of  the  guard  in 
the  presence  of  a  commissioned  officer,  and  he  tells  me  the  name 
of  Dennis  was^written  in  the  guard  report  instead  of  Dean's,  and 
that  this  was  his  own  mistake. 

Respectfully, 

G.  A.  ARMES, 

Capt.  Tenth  Cav. 

Fort  Stockton,  November  23,  1878. 

A  telegram  came  this  morning  ordering  me  to  report  to  Capt. 
T.  \\ .  Clous  of  San  Antonio,  Texas,  by  November  29  for  trial. 


457 

Fort  Stockton,  November  23,  1878. 
To  the  Post  Adjutant: 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  request  to  be  informed  whether  any 
additional  charges  have  been  preferred  against  me,  and  if  so,  I 
would  respectfully  ask  that  I  be  furnished  with  a  copy  of  them,  in 
order  that  I  may  be  able  to  see  the  witnesses  I  may  require  before 
leaving  this  post. 

Respectfully, 

G.  A.  ARMES. 

Pecos  River,  on  the  Stage,  November  24,  1878. 
Dr.  and  Mrs.  Hall  were  as  true  to  the  last  as  a  couple  could 
possibly  be,  and  helped  Lucy  pack  up  my  valise  and  get  me  off, 
and  I  left  at  10  o'clock  P.  M.  last  night  for  San  Antonio.    Five  or 
six  of  the  witnesses  are  on  the  stage  with  me. 

I  did  not  need  the  counsel  contained  in  the  following  letter,  but 
it  was  none  the  less  acceptable : 

United  States  Senate  Chamber, 

Washington,  November  19,  1878. 
My  Dear  Major: 

Yours  per  Mr.  Ray  received.  I  did  not  see  him,  for  he  left  for 
Boston  to  attend  the  funeral  of  his  father.  I  went  up  to  see  the 
Secretary  of  War,  and  had  a  long  and  satisfactory  consultation 
with  him  on  your  affairs.  I  put  the  case  strongly  as  to  the  perse- 
cutions to  which  you  have  been  subjected.  He  responded  like  a 
man  and  a  gentleman,  and  I  am  authorized  to  say  that  he  is  watch- 
ing your  matters,  and  will  personallv  see  to  them  and  that  you  do 
not  suffer.  By  his  advice  I  wrote  General  Ord  today,  calling  at- 
tention to  your  case,  as  requested  by  Senator  Spencer,  and  for- 
warded to  him  certified  copy  of  Adjutant  Smither's  letter  asking 
documents  and  my  reply  thereto.  If  General  Ord  is  friendly  you 
will  doubtless  hear  more  of  this.  The  anpeal  to  him  was  to  put  a 
stop  to  the  persecutions  of  your  wife  and  yourself,  etc.  Keep  quiet ; 
let  your  enemies  go  on  and  hang  themselves  with  their  own  rope. 
The  Secretary  is  watching  matters,  and  intends  to  act  promptly  and 
effectively  at  the  proper  moment.  The  charges  against  you  are 
weak,  and  show  vindictiveness.  I  hope  there  is  no  foundation  to 
the  charge  of  making  a  false  guard  report.  Keep  cool;  do  not  be 
betrayed  into  any  violence.  Keep  your  own  counsel.  Smile  away 
any  and  all  attempts  to  anger  you.  Meet  your  accuser  politely, 
but  firmly,  and  you  will  come  out  all  right.  I  think  Smither  will 
hear  from  General  Ord,  and  quite  likely  will  be  court-martialed  for 
having  written  that  letter  in  violation  of  peremptory  general  or- 
ders. When  the  Committee  meet  I  will  lay  the  matter  before 
them  and  try  to  have  them  request  that  you  be  relieved  and  sent 
to  the  Artillery  School  at  Fort  Monroe. 
Very  truly,  your  friend, 

J.  J.  NOAH. 


458 

(Court-martial  No.  6.) 

Orders  from  Department  Headquarters: 

A  General  Court-Martial  is  ordered  to  convene  at  San  Antonio, 
Texas,  on  Monday,  December  2,  1878,  at  10  o'clock  A.  M.,  or  as 
soon  thereafter  as  practicable,  for  the  trial  of  Capt.  G.  A.  Armes, 
Tenth  Cavalry,  and  such  other  persons  as  may  be  properly  brought 
before  it. 

Detail  for  the  Court — Col.  G.  L.  Andrews,  Twenty-fifth  Inf.; 
Lieut.-Col.  L.  C.  Hunt,  Twentieth  Inf.;  Lieut-Col.  M.  M.  Blunt, 
Twenty-fifth  Inf.;  Maj.  J.  E.  Yard,  Twentieth  Inf.;  Major  James 
McMillan,  Second  Art;  Capt.  J.  H.  Patterson,  Twentieth  Inf.; 
Capt.  Lloyd  Wheaton,  Twentieth  Inf.  Capt.  J.  W.  Clous,  Twenty- 
fourth  Inf.,  is  appointed  Judge-Advocate  of  the  court. 


The  Potato  Lady. 

San  Antonio,  November  29,  1878. 

At  10  this  A.  M.  I  reported  to  Captain  Clous,  who  read  Mc- 
Laughlin's  and  Sweet's  statements.  He  talked  as  if  there  would 
be  no  trial,  pretending  to  be  my  friend.  I  soon  explained  that 
there  were  no  grounds  for  a  trial,  as  Colonel  Grierson  had  inves- 
tigated the  case  before,  and  everything  was  in  my  favor,  but  that 
I  had  no  objection  to  a  trial.  I  requested  a  thorough  investiga- 
tion, however,  of  the  false  and  malicious  charges  that  had  been 


459 

fixed  up  by  Grierson,  McLaughlin,  Smithers  &  Co.,  who  were  a 
set  of  conspirators  trying  to  force  me  out  of  the  regiment.  Hav- 
ing sent  all  the  particulars  to  Judge  Noah  in  Washington,  a 
special  friend  of  the  Secretary  of  War,  I  felt  assured  that  some 
steps  would  be  taken  to  prevent  any  further  persecution  by  those 
in  authority  at  San  Antonio. 

December  2,  1878. 

Captain  Clous,  acting  as  Judge-Advocate  of  the  Department, 
went  through  my  case  today,  and  soon  saw  there  was  nothing  in 
it,  and  with  instructions  from  Washington  naturally  could  not 
insist  on  a  trial. 

December  3,  1878. 

General  Ord  sent  for  me  this  morning,  informing  me  he  had 
dismissed  the  charges  on  the  ground  that  Colonel  Grierson  had 
investigated  the  matter  in  July,  and  that  there  was  no  sufficient 
reason  for  bringing  me  before  a  court.  He  gave  General  Vincent 
orders  to  have  me  released  from  arrest  and  returned  to  duty,  but 
did  not  mention  that  he  had  been  instructed  from  Washington. 

Fredericksburg,  Texas,  December  6,  1878. 
After  making  a  number  of  purchases  yesterday  afternoon,  Col- 
onel Millspaugh  insisted  on  my  calling  to  see  Miss  Saunders,  a 
young  lady  with  whom  he  is  very  much  in  love.  After  a  visit  of  an 
hour  we  started  back,  when  he  spoke  of  purchasing  a  gold  watch 
or  diamond  breastpin  for  her,  as  he  said  he  wanted  to  give  her 
something  to  remember  him  by.  I  advised  him  not  to  do  it,  but 
to  select  a  handsome  bouquet  in  place  of  the  jewelry,  as  I  thought 
it  would  have  more  effect.  He  followed  my  advice  and  sent  her 
the  bouquet. 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  December  n,  1878. 
Have  just  arrived  here  after  nearly  500  miles'  stage  ride,  night 
and  day,  and  of  course  am  pretty  well  tired  out.  Was  met  by 
Lieutenants  Easterly,  Quinby,  Chaplain  Baldridge  and  others, 
who  seemed  delighted  at  my  victory.  My  quarters  were  illu- 
minated and  an  elegant  dinner  fixed  up  for  my  reception.  I  had 
just  set  down  to  the  table  when  my  first  sergeant  brought  the 
whole  company  to  serenade  me. 


460 

December  24,  1878. 

Lieutenant  John  McMartin  relieved  me  as  Officer  of  the  Day, 
when  I  went  to  Mr.  Corbit's  and  bought  a  large  sheep  to  take 
home  to  my  first  sergeant  for  a  Christmas  dinner  for  the  men. 

December  25,  1878. 

My  company  had  a  dinner  consisting  of  the  whole  sheep,  roast 
pigs,  cake  and  wine ;  in  fact,  almost  equal  to  dinners  gotten  up  in 
the  East. 

December  31,  1878. 

Major  McLaughlin  gave  as  thorough  an  inspection  of  my 
quarters  and  men  today  as  he  possibly  could,  but  was  unable  to 
find  fault  with  anything.  The  company  is  looking  well,  and  I  am 
on  good  terms  with  all  the  officers  and  ladies  at  the  post,  with  the 
exception  of  Major  McLaughlin,  Lieut.  O.  G.  Sweet,  Captain 
Robe  and  Lieutenant  Easterly. 

The  memoranda,  letters,  orders  and  telegrams  which  follow 
are  added  to  more  fully  illustrate  the  occurences  of  the  year  so 
eventful  to  myself  and  those  whose  fate  is  closely  linked  with 
mine: 

Washington,  D.  C.,  April  24,  1878. 
Maj.  Geo.  A.  Armes: 

Dear  Old  Friend — I  heartily  congratulate  you,  and  I  congratu- 
late the  United  States  Army.  You  deserve  all  the  favors  you  re- 
ceive from  the  United  States  Government.  If  I  had  it  in  my  power 
I  would  put  Sitting  Bull  and  all  the  Indian  interests  in  your  hands, 
and  I  would  give  you  a  full  division,  with  the  rank  of  General  of 
Division.  Kind  regards  to  Madam  Armes. 

Your  old  friend  and  brother-officer, 

M.  J.  GONZALES. 

(Telegram.) 

June  4,  1878. 
To  Hon.  Chas.  J.  Faulkner, 

Martinsburg,  W.  Va.: 

Impossible  to  visit  you  Saturday.  President  Hayes  sends  re- 
gards and  thanks  for  invitation.  I  "will  write  particulars. 

(Signed)         G.  A.  ARMES. 


461 

Washington,  D.  C,  June  12,  1878. 
Gen.  J.  S.  Mason, 

San  Antonio,  Texas: 

Dear  General — I  introduce  to  your  consideration  Captain 
Armes,  Tenth  Cavalry.  I  have  found  him  amiable  and  agreeable, 
and  all  courtesies  you  can  extend  will  be  much  appreciated.  In- 
troduce him  to  our  dear  Brown,  who,  like  yourself,  is  always  kind. 
Mrs.  L.  joins  me  in  warm  regards  to  you,  Brown,  John  and  other 
friends. 

Very  truly  yours, 

HERMAN  SCHREINER. 

(Telegram.) 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  October  26,  1878. 
Adjutant-General,  Department  of  Texas, 

San  Antonio,  Texas, 
Through  Post  Adjutant: 

Major  McLaughlin  has  held  me  in  close  arrest  eight  days,  and 
just  furnished  a  copy  of  groundless  charges,  which  I  think  the 
General  Commanding  Department  will  disapprove,  as  the  malice 
is  so  plainly  exhibited.  Until  the  General  Commanding  Depart- 
ment can  act  I  respectfully  request  a  suspension  of  my  arrest. 

G.  A.  ARMES, 

Capt.  Tenth  Cav. 

Headquarters  Department  of  Texas, 

San  Antonio,  Texas,  December  3,  1878. 
Special  Orders  No.  255. 

#  *  *  *  #  *  :K  >!<  *  *  * 

V.     Capt.  G.  A.  Armes,  Tenth  Cavalry,  is  released  from  arrest, 

and  will  return  to  his  post  for  duty. 

**##*#*#### 

By  command  of 

BRIGADIER-GENERAL  ORD. 
THOMAS  M.  VINCENT, 

Asst.  Adjt.-Gen. 
Official:    (Signed)         HUGH  G.  BROWN, 

Aide-de-Camp. 


CHAPTER  XVII. 

January  19,  1879. 

Lieutenant-Colonel  Blunt,  Twenty-fifth  Infantry,  arrived  on 
the  stage  this  A.  M.  and  relieved  old  McLaughlin  as  commanding 
officer.  He  does  not  look  to  me  as  if  he  will  be  much  improve- 
ment. 

February  18,  1879. 

For  the  past  few  weeks  I  have  had  mounted  drill  in  addition  to 
target  practice  almost  every  day.  I  fixed  a  nui.iber  of  posts  with 
straw  heads,  where  I  practiced  some  men  with  their  sabers  in  rid- 
ing and  knocking  them  off  the  posts,  which  is  very  interesting  for 
the  spectators  who  assemble  afternoons  when  I  drill. 

March  14,  1879. 

The  truth  is  coming  out  at  last  in  regard  to  Colonel  Blunt.  He 
is  shielding  Orl email  against  Major  Geddes,  whom  he  appears  to 
be  trying  to  get  into  trouble,  and  he  seems  to  be  under  the  in- 
fluence of  Colonel  Grierson  and  Lieutenant  Smithers.  With  the 
assistance  of  Lieutenant  Sweet,  they  appear  to  be  doing  every- 
thing they  can  to  find  excuse  to  bring  charges  against  him. 

March  31,  1879. 

As  the  Indians  are  committing  depredations  throughout  the 
country,  I  have  been  ordered  to  hold  my  command  in  readiness 
to  take  the  field.  A  citizen  by  the  name  of  Price  has  received 
orders  to  report  to  me  as  contract  Surgeon  while  I  am  in  the  field. 
I  hope  to  prevent  his  being  assigned  with  me,  as  he  is  a  spy  and 
mischief-maker. 

April  4,  1879. 

My  company  was  relieved  from  duty  at  the  post  today.  I  had 
all  my  sabers  packed  and  moved  this  afternoon.  Having  an  inde- 
pendent command,  I  encamped  about  a  mile  from  the  post. 

Camp  Ritchie,  in  the  Field,  April  8,  1879. 
Moved  with  my  company  at  9  this  A.  M.,  with  Dr.  Price  as 
Assistant  Surgeon  and  Calvin  Easterly  as  Second  Lieutenant. 


463 

Camp  Santa  Rosa,  Texas,  April  9,  1879. 

After  our  arrival  in  camp  last  night  Lieutenant  Glenn,  Post 
Quartermaster,  Captain  Van  Valzah  and  his  wife,  with  the  quar- 
termaster-sergeant, drove  out  with  a  supply  of  bread  for  my  com- 
mand, the  last  I  expect  to  have  for  several  months. 

Camp  Nolan  (Dry  Camp),  Sand  Hills,  Texas,  April  15,  1879. 

Corporal  Ridley  reported  last  evening  signs  of  Indians  near, 
and  we  started  early  this  morning  with  thirty-two  men,  thirteen 
pack-mules  and  five  days'  rations ;  crossed  the  Pecos  at  Little 
Falls,  expecting  Sergeant  Richards  with  another  detachment  to 
meet  us  there.  We  killed  a  few  antelopes,  and  after  a  march  of 
forty  miles  we  have  gone  into  camp. 

Camp  Maxey,  April  16,  1879. 

We  camped  in  the  sand  hills  without  water  or  grass  last  night, 
and  moved  at  6  o'clock  this  morning.  Found  a  number  of  pony 
tracks,  which  it  is  impossible  to  follow  very  fast  for  want  of  water 
and  on  account  of  the  deep  sand 

Camp  Lee,  on  the  Pecos,  April  22,  1879. 

We  have  had  quite  a  long  scout  through  the  sand  hills,  but  have 
not  been  able  to  overtake  any  Indians,  and  are  now  back  in  camp 
on  the  Pecos,  where  we  have  plenty  of  good  fishing.  A  great 
many  cowboys  called  on  me  this  evening  and  supplied  us  with 
all  the  fresh  meat  we  wanted. 

Camp  Ridley,  near  China  Pond,  April  23,  1879. 
I  crossed  the  Pecos  at  Horsehead  today,  marching  fifteen  miles 
below,  and  came  through  Castle  Gap,  making  a  march  of  forty- 
six  miles.    The  cowboys  are  very  glad  to  see  us  looking  out  for 
their  protection  and  much  encouraged. 

Camp  Turner,  on  the  Pecos,  April  25,  1879. 
Moved  at  5  o'clock  this  A.M.;  marched  through  the  sand  hills 
and  down  the  Pecos  to  the  north  of  Horsehead  Crossing,  arriving 
in  camp  at  6.30  this  P.  M. ;  plenty  of  antelopes  and  jack-rabbits, 
of  which  the  men  have  killed  several. 

Camp  Hayes,  on  the  Pecos,  May  6,  1879. 
We  marched  at  7  this  A.  M.  at  Emigrant  Crossing,  on  the 
Pecos ;  watered  and  rested  my  command  for  a  couple  of  hours. 
Marched  thirty-two  miles  today. 


464 

May  7,  1879. 

Dr.  Price  started  to  build  a  fire  last  evening  to  make  some 
coffee.  As  Indians  are  supposed  to  be  near,  I  did  not  propose  to 
have  the  lire  made  at  that  time  of  night,  and  declined  to  allow  him 
to  make  it,  when  he  appeared  very  much  vexed. 

Camp  Seward,  on  Toga  Creek,  Texas,  May  9,  1879. 
I  started  out  at  daybreak  this  morning,  and  have  made  a  forced 
march,  trying  to  overtake  the  band  of  Indian  marauders  who  have 
been  stealing  cattle  through  this  section.     Marched  seventy-five 
miles,  and  have  plenty  of  water  tonight. 

Camp  Maish,  on  the  Pecos,  May  12,  1879. 
We  had  a  dry  camp  last  night ;  no  water  for  the  animals,  and 
very  little  for  the  men. 

Camp  Blaine,  on  the  Pecos,  May  13,  1879. 
Marched  at  7  o'clock  this  A.  M.,  and  the  men  are  very  tired.    I 
went  into  camp  early,  giving  them  an  opportunity  to  catch  fish 
and  kill  a  few  jack-rabbits. 

Camp  M.  C.  Butler,  on  the  Pecos,  Texas,  May  14,  1879. 
Marched  at  7  this  A.  M.     Crossed  the  Pecos  at  Popes'  Ford; 
halted  at  Beckwith's  Ranch  a  short  time.     My  company  killed 
forty  rabbits  this  evening  after  going  into  camp. 

Camp  Grenada,  New  Mexico,  May  15,  1879. 
Turned  out  at  6  P.  M.  with  five  days'  rations.  Stopped  at  Mr. 
Nash's  ranch  on  the  Pecos  for  an  hour  or  two.  He  killed  one  of 
his  finest  beeves  and  presented  it  to  my  command.  I  returned 
the  compliment  by  giving  him  a  side  of  bacon.  Plenty  of  water, 
but  no  fresh  signs  of  Indians. 

Camp  Hazelton,  May  17,  1879. 

Started  at  7  this  A.  M.  and  obtained  twelve  sacks  of  forage  for 
the  animals  from  Mr.  Gardiner,  who  owns  a  very  large  ranch.  He 
supplied  the  command  with  all  the  milk  they  wanted,  and  was 
pleased  to  see  us  in  this  section  of  the  country.  He  lives  like  a 
hermit,  and  owns  more  cattle  than  anyone  in  this  section. 


465 

Camp  J.  B.  Gordon,  Texas  (in  the  Sand  Hills),  May  23,  1879. 

Mr.  Roberts,  an  old  ranchman  who  has  been  here  for  years, 
accompanied  the  command  today.  We  are  now  in  camp  without 
any  water  or  signs  of  it,  although  we  have  dug  through  the  sand 
several  feet. 

Camp  Santa  Rosa,  May  27,  1879. 

Sent  Lieutenant  Easterly  to  the  post  with  a  small  escort  after 
the  mail  and  with  instructions  to  bring  my  family  out  tomorrow, 
as  we  have  established  a  permanent  camp  here. 

May  29,  1879. 

After  breakfast  took  an  escort  and  rode  out  to  meet  my  family. 
Met  Brooks  with  the  mail,  who  informed  me  that  Colonel  Blunt 
refused  to  allow  my  family  to  leave  the  post.  Lieutenant  Easterly, 
one  of  the  mischief-makers  of  the  regiment,  has  made  some  mis- 
representation to  Colonel  Blunt. 

May  30,  1879. 

Sent  Galvin,  my  guide,  in  to  the  post  with  a  letter  to  Colonel 
Blunt  in  relation  to  his  refusing  to  allow  my  family  outside  the 
post. 

May  31,  1879. 

My  wife  and  children  all  came  out  to  camp  today  with  Dr.  and 
Mrs.  Hall. 

June  9,  1879. 

Dr.  Price  excused  Corporal  Singles  and  Private  Sails  from  duly 
and  sent  them  to  the  post  without  my  knowledge  today. 

June  n,  1879. 

I  took  an  escort  and  rode  in  to  the  post  this  afternoon  and  re- 
quested Dr.  Woodruff,  the  Post  Surgeon,  to  give  a  thorough  ex- 
amination of  the  men  that  Dr.  Price  had  excused  from  duty. 

«*  '*•*  P     ...  *** '-; » *    ,  .  I 

June  12,  1879. 

I  returned  to  camp  last  night  and  received  a  note  from  Dr. 
Woodruff  stating  that  he  would  order  the  men  back  to  duty.  Un- 
der the  circumstances  T  annulled  Dr.  Price's  contract,  subject  to 
the  approval  of  higher  authority,  sending  him  out  of  my  camp 
for  insubordination  and  making  misrepresentations. 

80 


466 

Camp  C.  J.  Faulkner,  June  18,  1879. 

Report  came  to  me  at  5  P.  M.  that  Indians  had  been  at  Horse- 
head  on  the  Pecos.  I  at  once  saddled  up  and  ordered  the  com- 
mand in  a  gallop,  following  the  trail  for  twenty  miles  with  fifteen 
cowboys  who  joined  my  command,  but  the  Indians  have  scattered 
into  the  mountains,  and  it  is  impossible  to  find  them. 

Camp  F.  M.  Cockrell,  June  19,  1879. 

During  the  march  my  horse  fell,  and  I  was  badly  hurt,  but 
would  not  give  up.  We  marched  sixty  miles  during  the  night, 
following  the  Indian  trail  to  Castle  Gap. 

*3S 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  June  30,  1879. 

Captain  Van  Valsah  sent  out  for  me,  and  I  came  in  by  relays 
today.  It  is  understood  that  I  am  to  go  to  San  Antonio  as  a  wit- 
ness in  the  Geddes  case. 

July  IT,  1879. 

Took  tea  with  Major  Geddes  at  the  Menger  Hotel  and  spent 
most  of  the  evening  in  his  room.  There  seems  a  determination 
to  force  him  out  of  the  Army  if  possible  on  the  false  charges  they 
have  trumped  up  against  him. 

July  12,  1879. 

Lieutenant  Glenn  was  on  the  stand  most  of  the  day.  He  ap- 
pears to  be  a  strong  friend  to  Major  Geddes. 

July  1 6,  1870. 

Was  before  the  court-martial  at  12  o'clock  today  in  Major  Ged- 
des' defense.  My  testimony  seemed  to  offend  Captain  Clous,  the 
Judge-Advocate.  I  am  satisfied  he  will  watch  his  chance  to  get 
me  the  first  opportunity  that  occurs. 

July  19,  1879. 

Being  through  with  the  court,  I  was  ordered  back  to  my  station. 
Desiring  a  piano,  T  purchased  one,  and  drove  around  with  my 
ambulance,  giving  instructions  to  have  it  loaded  on.  The  clerks 
and  proprietor  of  the  store  worked  for  over  half  an  hour  trying 
to  find  a  way  to  load  it,  and  finally  decided  it  would  be  impossible. 
Tn  the  meantime  quite  a  crowd  began  to  assemble,  many  express- 
ing astonishment  that  anyone  would  think  he  could  possibly  carry 
a  piano  on  an  ambulance.  I  ordered  some  4  by  4*5  put  on  the 
axle  and  made  fast;  had  the  piano  lifted  up  and  fastened  on  the 
hind  part  of  the  ambulance  with  ropes  extending  over  the  top  of 


46y 

it  to  hold  it  in  place.  By  the  time  I  was  ready  to  start  the  streets 
were  crowded,  and  the  police  had  to  clear  the  way  for  me  to  drive 
out.  I  was  cheered  by  hundreds,  who  seemed  to  think  that  it  was 
the  most  remarkable  way  to  carry  a  piano  that  had  ever  been  un- 
dertaken. 

Fort  Concho,  Texas,  July  26,  1879. 

Reached  this  post  at  7  this  A.  M. ;  horses  and  mules  pretty  well 
tired  out.  I  am  now  the  guest  of  Lieutenant  Davis  and  wife. 
Found  quite  a  large  mail  here  for  me.  Everyone  seemed  sur- 
prised to  think  that  I  could  bring  this  piano  from  San  Antonio, 
over  two  hundred  miles,  without  a  mishap,  and  it  is  the  general 
talk  of  the  post. 

Fort  Stockton,  July  31,  1879. 

Rode  nearly  all  night ;  reached  here  safely.  Found  my  family 
all  well.  Found  my  company  in  rather  bad  shape,  as  Lieutenant 
Easterly  had  been  very  careless  and  let  the  men  do  mostly  as  they 
pleased,  racing  the  horses  nearly  to  death. 

August  14,  1879. 

Colonel  Blunt  and  Lieutenant  Sweet  have  been  secretly  inves- 
tigating a  few  of  my  men  who  have  been  punished  and  are  trying 
to  fix  up  a  set  of  charges  against  me.  As  soon  as  I  found  out 
what  they  were  doing  I  told  Colonel  Blunt  that  if  he  desired  any 
information  in  regard  to  Dr.  Price  I  had  no  objection  to  his  ques- 
tioning any  man  he  wished,  provided  he  would  send  for  him  in  the 
proper  manner,  but  it  had  a  demoralizing  effect  to  allow  Dr.  Price 
and  Lieutenants  Easterly  and  Sweet  to  mingle  among  them  for 
the  purpose  of  trying  to  find  grounds  for  charges. 

September  7,  1879. 

After  a  mounted  inspection  I  went  to  the  post  hospital  to  see 
Trumpeter  Simmons,  who  died  at  7  this  A.  M.  of  consumption. 

September  21,  1879. 

At  3  P.  M.  Colonel  Blunt  came  to  me  while  I  was  sitting  on  my 
porch  and  ordered  me  to  hand  him  my  sword,  placing  me  in  arrest 
(arrest  No.  21)  by  order  of  the  Department  Commander.  After 
he  left  me  I  took  my  shoulder-straps  off  and  sent  them  to  him  by 
my  orderly,  with  my  compliments  and  the  message  that  as  he  had 
my  sword  and  was  evidently  trying  to  put  me  out  of  the  regi- 
ment he  might  as  well  have  the  shoulder-straps.  To  this  he  re- 
plied that  he  did  not  wish  them,  and  therefore  sent  them  back 
to  me. 


468 

October  i,  1879. 

I  requested  that  a  copy  of  my  charges  be  furnished  or  that  I  be 
released  from  arrest,  and  was  furnished  with  a  lot  of  stuff  which  is 
all  bosh.  It  is  easily  seen  that  they  are  manufactured  and  fixed 
up  for  the  purpose  of  trying  to  force  me  out  of  the  regiment. 
Lieutenant  Easterly  gets  command  of  the  company  by  making  a 
false  representation  in  order  to  get  me  under  arrest. 

October  n,  1879. 

The  Adjutant-General  of  the  Department  sent  for  all  the  papers 
in  connection  with  my  case.  Lieut.  George  E.  Albee,  retired,  is 
here  in  the  interest  of  the  Hotchkiss  gun.  He  looked  over  my 
defense,  and  did  not  hesitate  in  saying  that  it  was  a  put-up  job. 
I  learned  today  that  General  Ord  had  telegraphed  to  the  Secre- 
tary of  War  that  the  charges  against  me  were  very  serious. 

October  21,  1879. 

The  Dutchman  is  here  with  General  Stanley  and  the  rest  of 
the  court.  Clous  is  going  among  my  men  manufacturing  all  the 
evidence  he  possibly  can  to  win  the  case.  He  has  sufficient  con- 
trol of  those  negro  soldiers  to  make  them  swear  to  anything  that 
he  may  fix  up. 


Trying  to  Procure  Evidence. 


469 

October  22,  1879. 

Sent  a  telegram  requesting  permission  to  take  my  wife  home 
and  then  come  back  and  stand  trial,  Dr.  Woodruff  giving  a  certifi- 
cate recommending  that  such  be  done.  Colonel  Blunt  repri- 
manded me  today  because  I  did  not  salute  him.  I  look  upon  him 
as  a  cowardly  sneak  and  an  imbecile. 

October  30,  1879. 

Major  Courtney  arrived  last  evening  from  Fort  Davis,  and  is 
helping  me  on  my  case. 

The  following-named  court  was  convened  under  Special  Order 
No.  210  at  Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  on  Monday,  the  3Oth  day  of 
October,  1879: 

Detail  for  the  court. — Col.  D.  M.  Stanley,  Twenty-second  In- 
fantry; Lieut.-Col.  N.  B.  Sweetzer,  Eighth  Cavalry;  Lieut.-Col. 
J.  E.  Yard,  Twenty-fourth  Infantry;  Capt.  J.  H.  Patterson,  Twen- 
tieth Infantry ;  Capt.  John  Hartley,  Twenty-second  Infantry ; 
Capt.  De  Witt  C.  Poole,  Twenty-second  Infantry ;  First  Lieut. 
G.  F.  Foote,  Regimental  Quartermaster,  Eighth  Cavalry.  Capt. 
J.  W.  Clous,  Twenty-fourth  Infantry,  was  appointed  Judge-Ad- 
vocate of  the  court. 

Maj.  Joseph  Bush,  Twenty-fifth  Infantry,  was  detailed  as  a 
member  of  the  court,  vice  Col.  J.  E.  Yard,  Twenty-fourth  Infan- 
try, relieved.  This  was  court  No.  7. 

After  making  arrangements  with  Major  Courtney  of  the  Twen- 
ty-fifth Infantry,  stationed  at  Fort  Davis,  to  act  as  my  counsel, 
we  appeared  before  the  court  at  10  o'clock,  October  30,  1879,  and 
I  could  only  with  the  greatest  difficulty  be  persuaded  by  my  coun- 
sel not  to  object  to  every  member  of  the  court,  as  I  was  confident 
they  had  been  specially  selected  for  the  purpose  of  convicting  me 
whether  the  charges  were  substantiated  or  not.  The  well-known 
reputations  of  Col.  David  Stanley  and  Major  Bush  were  sufficient 
grounds  to  convince  me  that  I  could  not  expect  justice  at  their 
hands.  Captains  Patterson  and  Poole  and  Lieutenant  Foote  were 
merely  figureheads  that  could  easily  be  handled  by  Clous,  who 
generally  selected  such  characters  for  details  away  from  their 
command.  They  looked  upon  it  as  a  "soft  snap"  when  detailed 
on  a  court-martial  where  they  could  draw  their  mileage  and  com- 
mutation of  quarters  or  have  a  change  of  duty  from  ordinary  gar- 
rison life.  There  is  generally  a  class  of  officers  of  that  descrip- 
tion in  the  Army  ready  to  serve  their  superiors  in  any  way  to 


470 

satisfy  such  men  as  Clous,  who  was  also  detailed  from  his  regi- 
ment to  act  as  Judge-Advocate  of  the  Department,  drawing  his 
mileage,  commutation  of  quarters  and  extra  pay,  all  of  which  nat- 
urally encouraged  him  to  make  up  a  case  that  would  appear 
serious  and  select  such  officers  for  his  court  as  he  supposed  he 
could  handle  and  beget  confidence  in  the  Department  Com- 
mander as  being  a  very  valuable  officer  who  apparently  was  work- 
ing for  the  interest  of  the  service  by  having  his  victims  found 
guilty  and  published  as  an  example  and  warning  to  others  in  the 
Army. 

After  Clous  arrived  at  Fort  Stockton  he  connived  with  Col- 
onel Blunt,  Dr.  Price,  Lieutenant  Easterly  and  several  negroes 
who  were  in  the  guardhouse  or  who  had  been  punished  and  con- 
cocted a  set  of  false  and  malicious  charges  which  they  all  knew 
were  not  true  and  brought  in  such  negroes  as  they  could  induce  to 
perjure  themselves  in  order  to  make  the  record  show  that  I  was 
guilty  of  overmarching  my  men  while  on  a  scout  after  Indians 
and  for  not  giving  them  sufficient  rations,  causing  sickness  and 
death. 

I  proved  before  the  court  by  witnesses  of  the  best  character 
and  standing  in  the  community,  both  in  the  Army  and  civil  life, 
that  all  the  rations  that  the  Government  had  issued  to  me  had  been 
carefully  distributed  among  the  men;  that  no  man  was  required 
to  march  any  further  than  I  did ;  that  I  shared  the  same  hardships 
and  fatigue  on  the  scouts ;  that  I  lived  pretty  much  on  the  same 
rations  as  issued  to  them.  The  Post  Surgeon,  Dr.  Woodruff,  who 
thoroughly  investigated  every  soldier  who  was  reported  sick  by 
this  contract  Surgeon,  Dr.  Price,  testified  that  these  men  were 
shirks  and  malingerers ;  that  he  had  immediately  returned  them 
to  duty,  and  that  no  man  had  died  or  been  injured  through  any 
neglect  or  arbitrary  action  on  my  part  as  commanding  officer. 
The  settlers  sustained  and  upheld  me  in  doing  my  duty  and  pro- 
tecting a  large  strip  of  country  several  hundred  miles  long  and 
fifty  or  one  hundred  miles  wide,  stocked  with  thousands  of  cattle, 
horses,  mules  and  ponies,  and  that  I  so  distributed  my  command 
throughout  that  section  in  detachments  and  kept  them  so  em- 
ployed and  on  the  move  that  the  Indians  dare  not  come  into  that 
section  while  my  command  was  on  duty  there.  No  stock  from  any 
ranch  was  lost  or  stolen  by  the  Indians  while  I  was  on  duty  in  the 
field  in  that  section  of  the  country. 


I  wish  to  mention  an  underhanded  and  villainous  act  of  Capt.  J. 
W.  Clous,  the  Judge-Advocate,  during  my  trial  of  which  I  have 
since  secured  evidence  through  the  kindness  of  Colonel  O'Brien, 
who  was  temporarily  in  command  of  Fort  Stockton,  and  gave  me 
authority  to  get  copies  of  records  from  the  Adjutant's  office,  the 
following  being  an  official  copy  furnished  by  the  Post  Adjutant : 

("Confidential.") 
General  C.  M.  Rooms, 
Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  November  10,  1879. 
Commanding  Officer, 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas : 

Sir — I  wish  you  would  please  inquire  of  Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 
Tenth  Cavalry,  if  he  has  any  records  of  Company  "L,"  Tenth  Cav- 
alry, in  his  possession,  and,  if  he  answers  in  the  affirmative,  to 
cause  him  to  surrender  them  to  the  commanding  officer  of  that 
company.  If  he  desires  to  use  them  in  his  trial  he  can  obtain  them 
by  proper  summons. 

I  have  reason  to  believe  that  Captain  Armes  has  in  his  posses- 
sion a  morning  report  book  of  the  company,  which  I  would  like  to 
examine,  but  for  obvious  reasons  do  not  wish  to  summon  from 
him  a  record  of  which  he  is  not  the  legal  and  proper  custodian. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  sir,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  ser- 
vant, 

(Signed)        J.  W.  CLOUS, 
Capt.  Twenty-fourth  Inf.,  Judge- Adv.,  G.  C.  M. 
P.  S. — Please  do  not  refer  this  to  Captain  Armes. 

A  true  copy  from  the  records  of  this  office. 

(Signed)         H.  L.  RIPLEY, 
Second  Lieut.  Twenty-fourth  Inf.,  Post  Adjt. 

I  had  a  copy  of  my  morning  report  book  made  in  a  condemned 
book  which  I  had  stored  away.  This  book  I  could  have  burned 
up  with  a  lot  of  other  papers  supposed  to  be  useless,  but  thinking 
perhaps  I  might  need  to  refer  to  my  scout  some  time  in  case  I 
should  ever  write  a  book,  I  made  a  true  copy.  When  I  went 
before  the  court  I  found  that  misstatements  and  misrepresenta- 
tions were  being  made  by  the  Judge-Advocate  to  members  of  the 
court  in  such  a  way  that  I  found  it  necessary  to  bring  my  copy  to 
refer  to  and  to  use  as  proof  to  show  that  my  company  report 
book,  turned  over  to  my  successor,  had  been  altered  after  it  had 
gone  out  of  my  possession. 


472 

Upon  the  discovery  by  Captain  Clous  of  this  book  in  my  pos- 
session he  knew  that  he  would  lose  his  case  unless  that  book  could 
be  taken  from  me,  and  finally  1  received  an  order  from  the  Post 
Commander  to  deliver  it  over  to  the  court,  as  was  more  fully  ex- 
plained subsequently  in  a  statement  by  my  brother,  Charles  H. 
Arnies,  with  all  the  facts  before  him,  in  which  he  set  forth  the 
minutest  details  affecting  the  matter  of  the  duplicate  report  book 
and  the  necessity  of  my  having  it  to  use  as  evidence. 

The  following  are  extracts  from  my  diary : 

October  31,  1879. 

The  court  met  at  10  this  A.  M.,  and  I  pleaded  to  the  first  charge 
on  four  specifications,  and  then  put  in  a  plea  of  bar  of  trial  on  the 
first. 

November  i,  1879. 

The  court  met  in  the  old  building  at  10  this  A.  M.  Major 
Courtney  put  in  a  plea  of  bar  of  trial  on  the  second  specification, 
but  it  was  overruled,  and  the  one  for  the  seventh  was  accepted  in 
my  favor.  Lieutenant  Glenn  was  on  the  stand  today,  also  Lieu- 
tenant Easterly,  who  testified  contrary  to  facts. 

November  3,  1879. 

Court  met  again  at  TO  this  A.  M.  Major  Bush,  who  is  on  a 
drunk,  was  excused  on  acount  of  sickness.  Lieutenant  Easterly 
was  questioned  by  Captain  Clous  two  or  three  hours,  and  then 
turned  over  to  Major  Courtney  and  me.  1  have  no  confidence  in 
the  court,  and  consented  to  not  challenge  on  the  advice  of  my 
counsel,  Major  Courtney.  Colonel  Grierson  came  by  the  post 
last  night,  hobnobbing  and  conniving  with  the  members  in  order 
that  they  may  convict  me. 

November  6,  1879. 

Dr.  Woodruff  was  before  the  court  today,  and  his  testimony 
was  in  my  favor. 

November  13,  1879. 

Lieutenant  Glenn  was  called  before  the  court  and  contradicted 
Lieutenant  Easterly.  Sergeant  Hill  was  on  the  stand  most  of  the 
day,  and  was  questioned  in  regard  to  company  matters. 

November  18,  1879. 

The  court  met  at  9  this  A.  M.  Siggles,  Brooks  and  Scales  were 
summoned,  but  Clous  would  not  allow  anything  said  that  re- 
flected upon  Dr.  Price. 


473 

November  23,  1879. 

General  Stanley,  Major  Bush  and  Captain  Poole  left  for  their 
posts  today.  Major  Bush  has  been  on* a  drunk  most  of  the  time 
since  he  has  been  at  this  post.  Some  are  of  the  impression  that  I 
have  been  honorably  acquitted,  but  knowing  Clous  as  I  do  and 
his  underhanded  way  of  managing  cases  and  picking  his 
courts,  I  feel  that  I  have  been  found  guilty  and  sentenced  to  dis- 
missal, and  propose  to  head  them  off  in  Washington  as  soon  as 
possible.  Clous  is  a  man  1  cannot  expect  any  justice  or  fair  deal- 
ings from,  and  having  full  control  of  the  court,  he  handles  the 
members  as  if  they  were  his  puppets. 

November  28,  1879. 

Colonel  Bentzoni  called  on  me  last  evening,  and  we  had  quite 
a  talk  in  relation  to  saluting  Colonel  Blunt,  and  finally,  on  his  ad- 
vice, 1  agreed  to  salute  him  hereafter.  The  Colonel  is  an  old  sol- 
dier and  a  good  friend  of  mine,  and  thinks  it  best  to  humor  Blunt, 
considering  that  he  is  a  sort  of  an  imbecile. 

The  following  selections  from  the  communications  which 
passed  during  the  year  just  closed  will  throw  light  on  the  motives 
that  prompted  my  prosecution,  or,  more  properly  speaking,  my 
persecution : 

Post  Hospital, 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  August  15,  1879. 
To  the  Post  Adjutant, 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas: 

Sir — 1  have  the  honor  to  report  the  case  of  Bugler  William  Sim- 
mons, Company  *'L,"  Tenth  Cavalry.  He  is  suffering  from  acute 
dysentery,  which  has  now  become  chronic  and  does  not  yield  to 
remedies. 

Repeated  examinations  have  been  made  which  prove  that  the 
patient  is  also  suffering  from  tubercular  deposit  in  apex  of  left 
king,  with  symptoms  of  dullness  on  percussion;  sibilant  rales  and 
cough  slight;  expectoration,  with  pain  over  upper  region  of  left 
lung. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         EZRA  WOODRUFF, 
Asst.  Surgeon,  U.  S.  Army. 

Headquarters  Company  L,  Tenth  Cavalry, 

Fort  vStockton,  Texas,  August  15,  1879. 
A.  A.  A.  General,  Fort  Concho,  Texas, 

Through  Post  Headquarters: 

Sir — In  compliance  with  orders  received  by  me  yesterday  re- 
questing a  full  explanation  in  regard  to  dismounting  the  escort 


474 

furnished  me  and  using  the  public  horses  in  my  private  convey- 
ances, I  have  the  honor  to  submit  for  the  information  of  the  Gen- 
eral commanding  the  district  the  following  facts:  When  within 
a  short  distance  of  the  water  hole  between  Camp  Charlotte  and 
Grierson  Springs  one  of  my  horses  began  to  fag,  and,  with  the 
consent  of  the  corporal  of  the  escort,  his  horse  was  put  with  mine, 
and  he  rode  in  the  ambulance  with  me  to  the  water  hole,  where  we 
halted,  watered,  grazed  and  fed  our  horses,  remaining  two  or  three 
hours,  when  my  own  horses  were  hitched  up,  and  which  I  drove 
to  within  eight  or  ten  miles  of  the  spring,  when  signs  of  a  storm 
appeared,  and  one  of  my  private  horses  being  fagged,  and  thinking 
I  could  not  reach  water  that  night  unless  I  had  the  corporal's 
horse,  I  again  asked  him  to  let  me  hitch  him  with  mine,  and  I 
drove  on  to  the  spring,  reaching  it  about  dark.  The  horse  was 
not  injured,  and  1  only  used  him  in  order  that  I  might  be  able  to 
reach  water  that  night.  Considering  it  for  the  interest  of  the  ser- 
vice to  care  for  the  Government  horses  as  well  as  my  own,  the  use 
of  the  horse  in  question  for  the  short  distance  was  a  necessity,  as 
no  injury  whatever  was  done.  Having  driven  him  myself,  I  feel 
confident  the  General  commanding  the  detachment  will  find  no 
fault  now  that  the  emergency  of  the  case  is  truly  explained,  show- 
ing one  horse  only  was  used  for  a  short  time  during  the  day,  instead 
of  horses,  as  reported. 

Respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

G.  A.  ARMES, 
Capt.  Tenth  Cav.,  Comdg.  Company. 

(First  Endorsement.) 

Headquarters  Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  August  16,  1879. 
Respectfully  transmitted  to  the  A.  A.  A.  General  of  the  District 
of  the  Pecos,  Fort  Concho,  Texa^. 

D.  D.  VANVALZAH, 
Capt.  Twenty-fifth  Inf.,  Comdg.  Post. 

(Second  Endorsement.) 
Headquarters  Department  of  the  Pecos, 

Fort  Concho,  Texas,  September  18,  1879. 

Respectfully  returned  to  Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  Tenth  Cavalry, 
through  commanding  officer,  Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  for  further 
report.  Attention  is  invited  to  within  enclosure,  together  with 
endorsements  thereon,  these  papers  to  be  returned. 

By  order  of 

COL.  B.  H.  GRIERSON. 
ROBT.  H.  SMITHER, 

First  Lieut,  and  Adjt.  Tenth  Cav. 


475 

Received  telegram  of  my  father's  death  and  obtained  leave  of 
absence,  as  per  following  order  : 

Headquarters  Department  of  Texas, 

San  Antonio,  Texas,  September  I,  1879. 

Special  Orders  No.  186. 

*********** 

III.  Leave  of  absence  for  one  month,  with  permission  to  go 
beyond  the  limits  of  the  Department,  is  granted  Capt.  G.  A.  Armes, 

Tenth  Cavalry,  Fort  Stockton,  Texas. 

*********** 

By  command  of 

BRIGADIER-GENERAL  ORD. 
HUGH  G.  BROWN, 

Capt.  Twelfth  Inf.,  A.  D.  C,  in  charge. 

Just  as  I  had  arranged  to  leave  the  post  the  cold-blooded  villain 
Blunt  stopped  me,  not  only  preventing  me  from  having  an  oppor- 
tunity to  take  a  last  look  at  my  father,  but  caused  me  a  loss  of 
thousands  of  dollars. 

War  Department, 
Signal  Service,  U.  S.  A. — United  States  Telegraph. 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  November  22,  1879. 
Send  the  following  message:    O.  B. 
To  Hon.  G.  W.  McCrary, 

Secretary  of  War, 

Washington,  D.  C., 
Through  the  proper  military  channels: 

My  request  to  General  Ord  for  thirty  days'  leave  to  take  my  sick 
wife  home  and  to  attend  to  important  business  in  connection  with 
my  father's  death  not  having  been  approved,  I  respectfully  request 
that  you  grant  me  the  privilege,  as  the  court  finished  my  case  to- 
day, and  I  am  now  waiting  the  promulgation  of  its  decision. 

ARMES,  Captain. 

Headquarters,  Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  November  23,  1879. 
Respectfully  returned  to  Capt.  G.  A.  Armes,  Tenth  Cavalry. 
The  Commanding  Officer  declines  to  send  this  telegram,  as  the 
leave  asked  for  has  been  refused  by  the  Department  Commander. 
If  Captain  Armes  wishes  to  appeal  from  the  action  of  the  De- 
partment Commander  he  can  make  his  appeal  to  the  Division 
Commander. 

[>y  order  of 

LlEUTENANT-COLONEL  BLUNT. 

(Signed)        OWEN  JOY  SWEET, 
First  Lieut.  Twenty-fifth  Inf.,  Post  Adjt. 


476 

State  of  Texas,  County  of  Pecos,  ss.  : 

Personally  appeared  before  me,  the  undersigned  authority,  John 
C.  H.  Galvin,  who,  being  duly  sworn  according  to  law,  deposes 
and  says  that  the  following  statement  is  true  that  he  served  in  the 
field  with  Captain  Armes  as  guide  to  his  command;  that  he  has 
known  and  had  dealings  with  Contract  Doctor  M.  F.  Price  off  and 
on  since  May  15,  1879,  and  from  what  he  knows  personally  of  him, 
in  addition  to  his  general  reputation  for  truth  and  veracity  in  this 
section  of  the  country,  he  would  not  believe  him  under  oath. 

(Signed)         JOHN  C.  II.  GALVIN, 

Post  Guide. 

Sworn  and  acknowledged  to  before  me  this  22d  day  of  Decem- 
ber, 1879. 

(Signed)         H.  B.  QUIMBY, 
First  Lieut.  Twenty-fifth  Inf.,  J.  A.  G.,  C.  M. 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  January  6,  1880. 

The  telegraph  operator  handed  me  a  dispatch  today  from  a 
friend,  who  stated  that  the  court  had  dismissed  me  and  my  papers 
had  gone  to  Washington.  I  immediately  telegraphed  the  facts 
to  my  brother. 

January  15,  1880. 

Judge  Frazier  gave  me  a  long  letter  to  Congressman  Upson. 
Dr.  Woodruff,  Post  Surgeon,  also  gave  me  a  strong  statement, 
which  I  sent  to  Washington  tonight. 

February  13,  1880. 

Lieutenant  Easterly  is  acting  as  meanly  as  he  possibly  can. 
He  went  so  far  as  to  take  every  soldier  away  from  my  quarters, 
refusing  to  allow  them  to  work  or  do  anything  around  the  house, 
and  as  he  passed  by  my  quarters  this  evening  I  remarked  that 
West  Point  could  not  make  a  gentleman  out  of  a  scrub.  He  at 
once  reported  the  matter  to  Colonel  Blunt,  who  put  himself  on  the 
same  footing  with  him,  took  advantage  of  his  authority,  without 
any  investigation  of  the  facts,  and  revoked  the  limits  of  the  gar- 
rison, requiring  me  to  remain  in  my  quarters. 

February  17,  1880. 

I  made  a  request  today  that  I  be  allowed  to  take  my  wife  and 
children  for  a  short  drive  for  exercise,  but  it  was  disapproved 
by  the  gallant  Colonel  Blunt. 

March  9,  1880. 

During  the  past  few  weeks  I  have  been  obliged  ta  take  care  of 
my  own  horses,  help  with  the  cooking  and  housework  and  look 
after  the  children,  as  my  wife's  health  is  so  impaired  it  is  impos- 
sible for  her  to  do  it  all.  There  being  no  civilian  servants  or  any- 
one that  could  be  hired,  all  the  officers  use  enlisted  men  as  such. 
They  are  detailed  from  their  companies  and  excused  from  their 
military  duties  by  Colonel  Blunt  and  the  company  commanders, 
some  of  the  officers  having  as  many  as  from  six  to  ten  men  ex- 
cused from  legitimate  duties  to  act  as  their  servants.  Legally  I 
had  just  as  much  right  as  any  of  the  rest,  but  power  invested  in  a 
mean  man  can  make  it  very  inconvenient  for  those  under  him. 


478 

April  3,  1880. 

Paymaster  Robinson  arrived  last  evening  and  paid  the  troops 
today.  At  10  A.  M.  I  managed  to  get  Lucy  and  the  children  com- 
fortably fixed  in  the  ambulance,  and  he  has  kindly  invited  them 
to  be  his  guests  during  the  march  to  San  Antonio.  Colonel  Blunt 
refused  to  let  me  go  to  camp  this  evening,  only  a  short  distance 
from  the  post,  to  see  that  my  family  got  started  safely  and  com- 
fortably and  properly  provided  for.  Dr.  Woodruff  did  all  he 
could  for  us  all.  My  wife  seemed  pleased  to  get  away  from  Blunt, 
and  hopes  she  will  never  see  or  hear  of  such  a  man  again.  She 
thinks  that  West  Point  must  be  hard  up  for  material  when  they 
supply  such  men  as  Blunt  to  the  Army  and  call  them  gentlemen. 

April  6,  1880. 

I  have  been  so  worried  since  my  family  left  on  account  of  Col- 
onel Blunt's  tyranny  that  the  doctor  has  been  required  to  treat 
me  for  nervous  prostration.  T  have  been  refused  permission  to 
go  to  the  post-trader's  or  to  have  my  limits  extended  for  my 
meals.  Dr.  Woodruff  has  invited  me  several  times  co  dine  with 
him.  I  have  been  obliged  to  cook  my  own  meals  and  attend  to 
my  horses,  as  Colonel  Blunt  declines  to  allow  any  enlisted  man 
to  come  to  my  quarters. 

April  17,  1880. 

The  past  few  days  a  great  deal  of  my  time  has  been  spent  in 
preparing  a  set  of  serious  charges  against  Colonel  Blunt,  Lieut. 
O.  J.  Sweet  and  Lieutenant  Easterly,  the  conspirators  who  are 
trying  to  force  me  out  of  the  regiment.  First  Sergeant  Turner 
gave  me  a  good  strong  affidavit  today.  Judge  Frazier  and  Judge 
Blacker  called  and  went  through  my  brief,  and  say  it  is  impos- 
sible for  me  to  be  found  guilty  by  an  honorable  court  on  such 
charges. 

April  20,  1880. 

Judge  Blacker  gave  me  a  splendid  letter  to  Senator  Maxey. 
Mr.  Ray  copied  the  charges  I  preferred  against  Colonel  Blunt  for 
me  last  night,  and  I  sent  them  to  San  Antonio  in  this  morning's 
mail. 

April  22,  1880. 

Had  a  splendid  letter  from  Surgeon  Woodruff,  which  I  have 
forwarded  to  Washington.  General  Portis  came  to  see  me  twice 
today,  and  has  taken  a  great  interest  in  my  case.  Colonel  Blunt 


479 

refuses  to  allow  me  to  go  out  of  the  garrison  after  my  meals,  and 
I  have  to  get  them  the  best  way  I  can.  Consequently  from  twenty 
to  thirty  hours  pass  without  my  being  able  to  obtain  anything 
to  eat. 

April  29,  1880. 

General  Portis  and  Judge  Blacker  spent  last  evening  with  me 
and  examined  my  whole  case  very  thoroughly.  Judge  Blacker 
referred  to  the  Knox  court-martial  and  a  letter  written  to  Mr. 
Lincoln  in  regard  to  getting  General  Grant  released.  While  at- 
tending the  grand  jury  I  have  an  opportunity  to  get  some  good 
meals  at  the  Hotel  Johnson. 

April  30,  1880. 

Colonel  Blunt  has  detailed  Lieutenant  Loughborough,  his  Ad- 
jutant, to  try  to  play  the  spy  for  him  and  watch  to  see  if  I  go  beyond 
the  limits  requiring  my  attendance  on  the  civil  court,  but  he  is  not 
the  man  to  do  the  dirty  work  that  Lieutenant  Sweet  used  to  be 
guilty  of.  I  shall  not  forget  how  anxious  Lieutenant  Sweet  was  to 
get  up  charges.  A  few  weeks  ago  he  went  so  far  as  to  take  a  stick 
and  stir  up  the  slops  in  the  barrel,  where  he  found  a  few  grains 
of  corn,  and  reported  the  matter  to  Colonel  Blunt,  who  had  it 
immediately  investigated,  finding  that  the  man  who  milked  my 
cows  had  scraped  up  a  peck  or  half  bushel  of  sweepings  by  au- 
thority of  the  Quartermaster  and  put  it  in  the  barrel.  This  shows 
how  desperate  Blunt  and  his  conspirators  are  to  force  me  out  of 
the  regiment  because  I  happen  to  be  a  restored  officer  who  they 
propose  shall  not  remain  in  the  service  if  they  can  prevent. 

May  i,  1880. 

Since  my  services  before  the  civil  court  are  ended  Colonel 
Blunt  has  declined  to  allow  me  out  of  the  garrison,  even  to  get 
my  meals. 

May  4,  1880. 

Judge  Blacker  left  yesterday  for  San  Antonio.  General  Portis 
did  not  get  off  with  him  as  he  expected,  but  spent  a  portion  of  the 
day  with  me,  and  has  advised  me  to  bring  a  civil  suit  against  Col- 
onel Blunt  for  inhuman  and  brutal  treatment. 

May  26,  1880. 

I  received  a  telegram  from  my  brother  Charles  stating  that  my 
sentence  has  been  commuted  to  one  year  on  half  pay  and  to  be 
confined  at  the  post  where  my  company  was  stationed. 


480 

May  28,  1880. 

Sent  an  application  for  an  extension  of  limits  of  arrest  on  ac- 
count of  sickness  from  being-  so  closely  cooped  up.  Dr.  Wood- 
ruff made  a  strong  endorsement  in  my  behalf. 

May  31,  1880. 

Governor  Sheppard  and  Paymaster  Watson  arrived  today  on 
their  way  West.  Governor  Sheppard  is  interested  in  a  large  silver 
mine  in  Mexico,  and  is  traveling  in  grand  style  with  his  ambu- 
lance, wagons  and  escort. 

July  14,  1880. 

Colonel  O'Beirne  approved  my  request  to  take  copies  of 
records  from  the  Adjutant's  office  and  look  through  the  files, 
which  was  the  means  of  giving  me  some  information  which  wrill 
prove  valuable  to  me  in  the  future.  General  Vincent  telegraphed 
today,  saying  that  I  would  be  ordered  to  Fort  McKavett  for  trial 
on  July  26. 

July  1 6,  1880. 

In  going  through  the  records  at  the  headquarters  today  I  found 
some  valuable  papers  regarding  actions  of  Colonel  Blunt,  and  in 
one  volume  in  regard  to  false  reports  sent  to  General  Ord,  which 
caused  my  trouble. 

July  21,  1880. 

Colonel  O'Beirne  gave  me  orders  to  go  by  stage  to  Fort  Mc- 
Kavett, and  T  am  preparing  to  leave  in  the  morning.  Sent  my 
ambulance,  horses  and  buggy  and  such  dishes  and  furniture  as  I 
could  not  dispose  of  in  charge  of  Lieutenant  Davis  to  take 
through. 

Pecos  Crossing,  July  22,  1880. 

Left  Stockton  on  the  stage  yesterday  at  ]2  o'clock.  Lieut,  H. 
L.  Ripley  bade  me  good-bye  and  wished  me  success.  He  has 
been  very  gentlemanly  and  obliging  since  I  met  him. 

Fort  McKavett,  July  27,  1880. 

Reached  this  post  at  sunrise.  Met  Lieutenant  Mosher  at  the 
post-trader's.  He  pointed  me  to  Dr.  Wolf's  headquarters.  Dr. 
Waters,  Post  Surgeon,  could  not  but  notice  my  nervous  condi- 
tion, and  excused  me  from  appearing  before  the  court  today.  Cap- 
tain Little  called  on  me  this  afternoon  ;  also  Mr.  Tesson  and  Lieu- 
tenant Morrison,  who  treated  me  as  kindly  as  possible.  Clous 
came  in  to  get  some  information,  and  I  expressed  my  opinion  of 
him  and  Colonel  Blunt  rather  severely.  [Court-Martial  No.  8.] 


48 1 

Headquarters  Department  of  Texas, 

San  Antonio,  Texas,  July  13,  1880. 

(Special  Orders  No.  139.) 

*  *          *  *          *          *          *   ^      *          *          *         * 

II.  A  general  court-martial  will  convene  at  Fort  McKavett, 
Texas,  on  Monday,  the  26th  day  of  July,  1880,  at  TO  o'clock  A.  M., 
or  as  soon  thereafter  as  practicable,  for  the  trial  of  Capt.  George 
A.  Armes,  Tenth  Cavalry,  and  such  other  persons  as  may  be 
properly  brought  before  it. 

Detail  for  the  Court.— Col.  T.  H.  Neill,  Eighth  Cavalry;  Lieut- 
Col.  A.  J.  Dallas,  Twenty-second  Infantry;  Maj.  A.  L.  Hough, 
Twenty  second  Infantry:  Sur<r.  W.  S.  Waters;  Capt.  C.  J.  Dickey, 
Twenty-second  Infantry ;  Capt.  Francis  Clarke,  Twenty-second 
Infantry;  Capt.  C.  W.  Miner,  Twenty-second  Infantry;  Asst. 
Surg.  M.  K.  Taylor,  Medical  Department;  First  Lieut.  W.  H. 
Kelt,  Twenty-second  Infantry. 

Capt.  J.  W.  Clous,  Twenty-fourth  Infantry,  is  appointed  Judge- 
Advocate  of  the  court. 

The  court  is  authorized  to  sit  without  regard  to  hours. 

*  *          *          *          ******* 

By  command  of 

BRIG.-GEN.  ORD. 
(Signed)        THOMAS  M.  VINCENT, 

Asst.  Adjutant-General, 
jf 

July  28,  1880. 

Dr.  Waters  came  over,  and  thought  it  best  not  for  me  to  appear 
before  the  court  today.  He  therefore  requested  until  Monday 
morning  to  enable  me  to  get  counsel  on  the  ground  that  I  was  not 
able  to  go  on  with  my  own  case.  The  court  adjourned  until  Mon- 
day or  until  I  was  ready  to  go  before  it. 

July  31,  1880. 

Appeared  before  the  court  at  TO  this  A.  M.  Objected  to  Lieu- 
tenant Kell,  Dr.  Taylor,  Clous,  and,  in  fact,  the  whole  court,  but 
was  not  sustained.  I  objected  to  Clous  on  the  ground  that  he  was 
not  a  gentleman  or  a  man  who  could  be  relied  upon  under  any 
circumstances. 

August  2,  1880. 

Received  a  telegram  from  Mr.  Paschal  stating  that  he  would 
leave  San  Antonio  Wednesday  as  my  counsel.  Major  Courtney 
was  over  to  see  me,  and  appears  very  anxious  to  shield  Colonel 
Blunt.  Sent  in  a  plain  statement  of  facts  in  regard  to  Colonel 

31 


482 

Blunt's  treatment  and  brutal  actions,  but  he  being  a  West  Pointer 
and  a  special  friend  of  Generals  Ord  and  Vincent,  will  be  shielded 
in  his  disgraceful  actions. 

August  7,  1880. 

Mr.  Paschal  came  in  at  6  A.  M.  on  the  stage,  and  at  i  o'clock 
we  appeared  before  the  court,  where  he  was  admitted  as  my  coun- 
sel. He  advised  me  not  to  object  to  any  more  of  the  members  of 
the  court  after  Dr.  Taylor  and  Kell  were  allowed  to  remain. 

August  9,  1880. 

The  court  met  at  10  o'clock  and  commenced  with  Captain  Little 
as  a  witness.  His  testimony  did  not  amount  to  much.  Lieu- 
tenant Maxon  was  called,  but  did  not  show  that  the  book  was  a 
blotter. 

August  10,  1880. 

Appeared  before  the  court  this  A.  M.  Colonel  Blunt  was  called 
as  a  witness  for  the  prosecution  and  kept  the  stand  all  day.  He 
said  everything  he  could  possibly  against  me  and  lied  so  plainly 
that  any  fair-minded  person  could  see  his  hostility. 

August  12,  1880. 

Dr.  Woodruff  called  on  me  yesterday  and  seemed  very  glad  to 
see  me.  Major  Courtney  was  before  the  court  as  a  witness.  The 
court  closed  my  case  with  Dr.  Woodruff's  and  Mr.  Paschal's  tes- 
timony and  adjourned  until  5  P.  M.  tomorrow  to  hear  Mr.  Pas- 
chal's argument. 

August  13,  1880. 

Mr.  Paschal  appeared  before  the  court  and  read  his  argument. 
Tt  was  very  interesting,  and  I  do  not  see  how  it  is  possible  for  the 
court  to  get  around  it,  but  it  is  not  necessary  that  T  should  be 
guilty  in  order  for  the  court  to  find  me  so,  as  there  is  no  doubt 
their  minds  were  made  up  before  meeting  as  to  what  they  would 
do,  having  been  picked  and  entirely  controlled  by  Clous.  He 
selected  old  Colonel  Neil,  who  is  in  his  dotage  and  can  be  handled 
by  almost  anyone. 

August  20,  1880. 

I  was  assigned  quarters  in  an  old  building  that  had  been  used 
as  a  hospital,  and  Dr.  Waters  declined  to  allow  me  any  of  the  hos- 
pital bedding,  but  Lieut.  M.  C.  Martin,  Post  Quartermaster,  sent 
over  an  old  dirty  iron  bunk ;  no  chairs,  mattress  or  blankets. 


August  23,  1880. 

Before  breakfast  this  A.  M.  I  wrote  a  lang  spicy  letter  to  Major 
Hough  in  reply  to  his  endorsement  about  hospital  property.  He 
being  a  member  of  the  court,  naturally  knows  what  my  sentence 
is,  and  from  his  actions  is  taking  advantage  of  the  condition  he 
thinks  he  has  placed  me  in. 

August  25,  1880. 

Received  a  splendid  letter  from  Lucy  today  stating  she  would 
leave  Washington  tomorrow.  Lieutenant  Mosher,  Post  Adjutant 
here,  is  beginning  to  put  on  airs  and  show  his  self-importance  in 
a  very  insulting  manner. 

August  26,  1880. 

Received  authority  to  go  to  San  Antonio,  and  have  made  ar- 
rangements to  start  in  the  morning.  In  the  meantime  my  horse 
and  ambulance  had  come  in  to  Concho,  and  after  packing  every- 
thing and  storing  it  away  T  left  McKavett  at  2  P.  M.  on  my  pony. 

Kerrville,  Texas,  August  28,  1880. 

Did  not  sleep  much  last  night.  Started  out  at  5  this  A.  M.  and 
rode  forty-nine  miles  today. 

San  Antonio,  August  30,  1880. 

Left  Birney  last  night  at  8  o'clock ;  took  the  right-hand  road 
instead  of  the  left,  and  went  eight  or  ten  miles  out  of  the  way  before 
I  was  informed  that  I  would  have  to  return  to  Birney  and  start 
again.  This  I  did,  reaching  San  Antonio  at  7  this  A.  M.  Called  on 
Major  Robinson,  who  was  very  glad  to  see  me  ;  gave  me  a  splendid 
room  and  invited  me  to  be  his  guest.  At  3  o'clock  a  'bus  drove 
up  from  the  depot  with  my  wife  and  three  children  just  from 
Washington.  All  look  well,  but  tired.  We  had  an  early  break- 
fast this  A.  M.,  and  T  applied  for  an  ambulance  this  A.  M.  to  take 
my  family  to  McKavett,  but  Colonel  Vincent  only  furnished  a 
six-mule  wagon.  Under  the  circumstances  I  had  to  purchase  an 
ambulance  for  that  purpose. 

vSan  Antonio,  September  2,  1880. 

Lucy  went  around  with  me  shopping,  and  we  bought  quite  a 
number  of  necessaries  to  establish  ourselves  in  quarters  on  our 
arrival  at  the  post,  where  T  am  ordered  to  remain  while  serving 
out  the  balance  of  mv  sentence. 


484 

September  15,  1880. 

Received  a  telegram  from  Concho  stating  that  my  ambulance 
and  three  horses  were  at  the  post.  Colonel  Hough,  the  Post 
Commander,  refused  to  allow  me  outside  the  garrison  to  try  to 
find  some  one  to  go  after  my  ambulance. 

October  17,  1880. 

The  man  I  had  engaged  failing  to  appear,  I  was  obliged  to  go 
tc  the  woods  and  haul  wood  for  my  family.  Most  of  my  time  is 
taken  up  in  taking  care  of  my  horses,  building  fires  and  helping 
with  the  housework. 

November  15,  1880. 

I  was  up  early  this  A.  M.  Went  to  market,  made  fire,  hired 
a  woman  by  the  name  of  Alary  Jones  today,  tended  to  my  horses 
and  helped  to  get  my  breakfast.  Cut  and  hauled  two  cartloads  of 
wood,  Major  Hough  declining  to  allow  the  prisoners  or  enlisted 
men  to  cut  wood  for  me. 

November  28,  1880. 

Received  my  patent  today  from  Father  Hobon  for  320  acres  of 
mineral  land  in  El  Paso  county. 

November  30,  1880. 

Paymaster  Dodge  arrived  here  last  night  and  paid  off  today. 
I  made  a  written  request  to  Major  Hough  for  the  prisoners  to 
cut  me  some  wood,  but  he  disapproved  it. 

December  4,  1880. 

As  the  weather  is  getting  so  cold.  I  require  a  great  deal  of  wood 
to  keep  my  quarters  warm,  and  Major  Clark  kindly  sent  me  two 
or  three  men  to  assist  in  getting  and  hauling  it. 

December  u,  1880. 

The  news  of  General  Orel's  retirement  was  received  here  today 
with  general  satisfaction.  At  least  10,000  signatures  could  have 
been  obtained  requesting  his  removal  from  this  department,  as 
he  seemed  to  be  despised  by  almost  every  honest  man. 

December  14,  1880. 

I  had  quite  a  time  today.  Our  trusted  cook,  Sallie  Thompson, 
has  gotten  into  the  sideboard  and  drank  up  a  bottle  of  whiskey. 
She  started  to  broil  the  steak  and  let  it  burn  up.  Upon  going  to 
the  kitchen  my  wife  found  her  dead  drunk  and  on  the  floor,  so  that 
I  had  to  turn  in  and  help  get  dinner,  after  pouring  a  few  pails  of 
water  over  the  cook's  head  to  sober  her  up. 


December  29,  1880. 

We  find  it  very  difficult  to  keep  warm  in  spite  of  the  fires  that 
are  kept  going  day  and  night.  The  thermometer  registers  seven 
degrees  below  zero.  I  suffered  a  great  deal  with  neuralgia,  and 
can  scarcely  rest  in  any  position. 

December  31,  1880. 

I  was  up  nearly  all  last  night  reading  Sherman's  book.  Figur- 
ing up  my  accounts,  the  cost  of  getting  my  family  to  Washington 
and  back  and  the  sacrifices  I  had  to  make  on  account  of  my 
arrests,  expenses  of  counsel  for  court-martial,  etc.,  I  find  that  I 
have  had  to  pay  out  $2130,  causing  me  to  sacrifice  my  cattle,  which 
I  had  purchased  before  leaving  Stockton,  entailing  a  loss  of  sev- 
eral thousand  dollars.  I  find  that  during  the  year,  in  speculations 
and  selling  property,  I  had  taken  in  $17,000  without  interfering 
with  any  of  my  military  duties.  This  has  been  a  great  help  in  get- 
ting my  case  properly  presented  before  the  court,  which  was  spe- 
cially selected  to  convict  without  regard  to  evidence. 

The  following  extracts  from  statement  prepared  in  August, 
1880,  to  be  submitted  to  the  authorities  in  Washington,  followed 
by  letters  and  extracts  from  communications  made  during  the 
year,  will  serve  to  convey  a  clearer  idea  of  the  difficulties  which 
environed  me :  • 

State  of  Texas,  County  of  Pecos,  ss.: 

Personally  appeared  before  me,  the  imdersigned  authority, 
Lewis  Pascon,  who,  being  duly  sworn  according  to  law,  and  says  : 

That  he  has  been  a  citizen  of  Pecos  over  ten  years ;  that  he  is 
largely  interested,  with  other  men,  in  raising  stock  on  the  Pecos 
river  above  Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  in  this  county;  that  he  has  fre- 
quently applied  for  assistance  from  the  post  for  protection  against 
the  Indians,  who  are  constantly  raiding  on  his  lands-  and  stealing 
horses  and  cattle :  that  none  of  his  requests  have  received  any  at- 
tention ;  that  he  appealed  to  Colonel  Blunt,  the  commanding 
officer  at  Fort  Stockton,  yesterday  for  protection,  the  Indians  hav- 
ing stolen  a  number  of  his  horses  and  cattle ;  that  Colonel  Blunt 
answered  him  as  he  has  done  others,  as  follows  : 

"That  he  could  not  protect  the  whole  country,  and  that  if  people 
wanted  protection  they  must  move  in  nearer  the  post,"  or  words 
to  that  effect,  and  refused  his  assistance  in  spite  of  his  having  four 
companies  of  troops  lying  idle  at  the  post — two  companies  of 
cavalry  and  two  of  infantry — which  have  not  been  scouting  for 
several  months,  and  when  informed  that  any  men  sent  for  the  pro- 
tection of  our  people  would  be  furnished  with  beef  without  cost 
to  the  Government,  and  flour,  too,  if  necessary,  as  an  inducement 
to  send  a  few  men  to  our  protection,  he  still  persisted  in  his  refusal. 


486 

That  he  can  furnish  a  number  of  affidavits  to  the  same  effect  if 
necessary. 

(Signed)         LEWIS  PASCON. 

Sworn  and  subscribed  to  before  me  this  3ist  day  of  January, 
A.  D.  1880. 

E.  W.  BATES, 
(Copy.)  Clerk  County  Court,  Pecos  County. 

State  of  Texas,  County  of  Pecos,  ss: 

Personally  appeared  before  me,  the  undersigned  authority, 
Sergeant  YVilliam  Turner,  Company  L,  Tenth  Cavalry,  who, 
being  duly  sworn  according  to  law,  deposes  and  says  that  Lieut- 
Col.  M.  M.  Blunt,  Twenty-fifth  Infantry,  commanding  the  post 
of  Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  did  speak  to  him  in  the  following  man- 
ner, to  wit :  "I  have  sent  for  you  to  sign  a  statement  against  Cap- 
tain Armes,  and  as  first  sergeant  of  the  company  it  is  your  place 
to  do  it,  and  I  will  see  that  you  are  protected,"  or  words  to  that 
effect.  And  when  the  said  Sergeant  .Turner,  Company  L,  Tenth 
Cavalry,  declined  to  sign  or  swear  to  the  statement  prepared  and 
fixed  for  his  signature,  saying  that  he  had  been  in  the  Army  a 
long  time  and  was  never  in  any  trouble,  and  that  he  did  not  wish 
to  mix  up  in  any  officer's  matter,  and  that  he  had  never  had  any 
cause  to  complain  against  Captain  Armes,  and  that  he  never  had 
complained  to  anyone  against  his  Captain,  the  said  Colonel  Blunt 
ordered  or  compelled  the  said  Turner  to  sign  and  swear  to  the 
paper  in  question  against  his  will.  Further,  when  Captain  Clous 
and  Lieutenant  Easterly  called  him  before  them  (after  the  court 
had  met  to  try  the  Captain)  for  the  purpose  of  using  him  as  a  wit- 
ness for  the  prosecution  of  Captain  Armes,  that  he  did  not  say 
anything  to  them  that  would  give  the  least  ground  for  calling  him 
as  a  witness  against  Captain  Armes,  and  that  he  was  not  called. 

Further,  that  there  is  not  a  man  in  the  company  who  would 
volunteer  to  enter  a  complaint  against  the  Captain,  with  the  excep- 
tion of  four  or  five  whom  Captain  Armes  had  justly  preferred 
charges  against,  and  who,  he  believes,  only  complained  to  escape 
a  trial. 

Further,  Lieutenant-Colonel  Blunt  and  Lieutenant  Sweet, 
Twenty-fifth  Infantry ;  Lieutenant  Easterly,  Tenth  Cavalry,  and 
Contract  Doctor  Price  were  continually  sending  for  and  talking 
with  men  of  the  company,  and  had  some  of  them  so  mixed  up  and 
frightened  that  they  only  signed  or  swore  against  the  Captain  for 
fear  of  punishment. 

Further,  Captain  Armes  has  always  been  kind  and  just  to  all 
the  men  of  the  company  without  ever  showing  partiality,  no  com- 
plaint ever  being  made  by  the  first  sergeant  of  the  company  for 
any  man  but  what  it  was  promptly  looked  into  and  justice  ren- 
dered by  Captain  Armes. 


487 

Further,  none  but  the  worst  characters  in  the  company  were 
selected  to  help  sustain  the  trumped-up  or  manufactured  charges 
against  him,  and  such  men  as  were  willing  to  perjure  themselves 
if  persuaded  by  some  of  the  Captain's  enemies,  it  was  for  their 
interest  to  do  so. 

(Signed)         WILLIAM  TURNER, 

Sergeant  Co.  L,  Fourth  Cavalry. 

Sworn  to  and  subscribed  before  me,  this  i/th  day  of  April,  1880. 
(Signed)         E.  W.  BATES, 
Clerk  County  Court,  Pecos  County. 
A  true  copy. 

(Signed)         G.  A.  ARMES, 

Captain  Tenth  Cavalry. 

Headquarters  Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  April  15,  1880. 
Capt.  George  A.  Armes,  Tenth  Cavaly,  Fort  Stockton,  Texas : 

Sir — The  Commanding  Officer  directs  me  to  inform  you  that 
your  extension  of  limits  per  endorsement  from  these  headquarters 
April  7,  1880,  is  for  the  purpose  of  going  to  Mr.  Johnson's  to  get 
your  meals,  and  you  are  prohibited  from  visiting  any  other  place 
in  the  village. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         R.  H.  R.  LOUGHBOROUGH, 
Second  Lieutenant,  Twenty-fifth  Inf.,  Post  Adjt. 

Headquarters  Fort  Stockton,  April  22,   1880. 
Capt.  George  A.  Armes,  Tenth  Cavalry,  Fort  Stockton,  Texas : 

Sir — The  Commanding  Officer  directs  me  to  inform  you  that 
the  limits  which  were  extended  to  enable  you  to  get  your  meals 
in  the  village  adjoining  the  post  are  hereby  restricted  to  the  post 
proper. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         R.  H.  R.  LOUGHBOROUGH, 
Second  Lieutenant,  Twenty-fifth  Inf.,  Post  Adjt. 

In  the  District  Court,  A.  D.  1880. 
The  State  of  Texas,  County  of  Pecos : 

To  the  Hon.  Allen  Blacker,  Judge  of  the  Twentieth  Judicial 
District  of  the  State  of  Texas  : 

The  petition  of  George  A.  Armes,  a  resident  citizen  of  the 
county  of  Pecos,  State  of  Texas,  complaining  of  M.  M.  Blunt,  also 
a  citizen  of  the  county  of  Pecos  and  State  of  Texas,  in  an  action 
of  false  imprisonment,  most  respectfully  represents  that  on  or 
about  the  24th  day  of  September,  in  the  year  1879,  at  the  place 
known  as  Fort  Stockton,  in  the  county  of  Pecos,  the  said  M.  M. 
Blunt,  then  and  there  being  the  Lieutenant-Colonel  commanding 
said  post  and  of  the  Twenty-fifth  Infantry  of  the  United  States 


488 

Army,  did  then  and  there  without  proper  consideration  and  with 
force  and  arms  did  then  and  there  seize  and  take  the  sword  of  him, 
George  A.  Armes,  then  and  there  the  Captain  commanding  Com- 
pany L  of  the  Tenth  Regiment  of  the  United  States  Cavalry,  and 
with  great  force  and  violence  the  said  M.  M.  Blunt  did  then  and 
there  upon  divers  and  sundry  false  and  unfounded  charges  and 
specifications  place  the  said  George  A.  Armes  in  custody  and 
confinement  without  authority  of  court  and  with  great  damage 
to  him,  the  said  George  A.  Armes,  namely :  In  the  sum  of  ten 
thousand  dollars  ($10,000).  The  said  George  A.  Armes  for  further 
course  of  action  says  that  the  said  false  imprisonment  of  him,  the 
said  George  A.  Armes,  Captain  of  Company  L  of  the  Tenth  Regi- 
ment of  Cavalry  of  the  United  States  Army,  by  M.  M.  Blunt,  the 
Lieutenant-Colonel  of  the  Twenty-fifth  Regiment  of  Infantry  of 
the  United  States  Army,  did  then  and  there  by  reason  of  the  deten- 
tion of  the  said  G.  A.  Armes  of  and  from  his  private  affairs  in  and 
about  the  District  of  Columbia  in  the  United  States  of  America, 
did  then  and  there  cause  and  procure  of,  from  and  about  the  pri- 
vate affairs  of  the  said  George  A.  Armes  great  injury  and  loss,  to 
wit :  In  the  sum  of  ten  thousand  dollars  ($10,000). 

Now  the  facts  all  considered,  your  petitioner,  George  A. 
Armes,  prays  your  honor  that  the  said  M.  M.  Blunt,  Lieutenant- 
Colonel  commanding  the  Twenty-fifth  Infantry  of  the  United 
States  Army,  be  cited  to  appear  at  the  next  term  of  the  District 
Court  of  Pecos  county  to  answer  this  complaint,  and  that  he  then 
and  there  be  condemned  to  pay  your  petitioner  the  sum  of 
twenty  thousand  dollars  and  all  costs  for  general  relief,  and  as  in 
duty  bound  petitioner  will  ever  pray,  etc. 

(Signed)         D.  S.  PORTIS. 

Attorney  for  P.  C. 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  June  30,  1880. 
To  the  Post  Adjutant : 

Sir — I  respectfully  request  that  I  be  furnished  with  a  copy  of 
Colonel  Blunt's  letter,  dated  June  23,  1880,  in  relation  to  my  re- 
quest for  thirty  days'  permission  to  leave  the  Department. 
Respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed)         G.  A.  ARMES, 

Captain  Tenth  Cavalry. 
First  endorsement. 

Headquarters  Fort  Stockton,  June  30,  1880. 
Respectfully  returned  to  Capt.  George  A.  Armes,  Tenth  Cav- 
alry, disapproved. 

By  order  of 

CAPT.  J.  M.  KELLEY. 
(Signed)         L.  P.  HUNT, 
First  Lieut.  Tenth  Cav.,  Post  Adjutant. 


Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  August  5,  1880. 
To  the  Adjutant-General  of  the  Army,  Washington,  D.  C. : 

Sir — I  respectfully  request  that  you  inform  me  with  as  little 
delay  as  possible  if  there  is  any  order  or  regulation  requiring  Cap- 
tains of  companies  to  keep  two  morning  report  books,  and  if  the 
morning  report  book  sent  to  the  Post  Adjutant  every  morning  is 
the  one  to  be  kept  in  a  company.    I  also  wish  your  opinion  as  to 
whether  a  Captain  of  a  company  has  a  right  to  take  a  copy  of  the 
original  morning  report  and  retain  it  as  his  private  property. 
Respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed)         G.  A.  ARMES, 

Captain  Tenth  Cavalry. 

HEADQUARTERS  OF  THE  ARMY, 
ADJUTANT  GENERAL'S  OFFICE, 

WASHINGTON.  «/<JHXj3  t  /«/  — 


CHAPTER  XIX. 

Fort  McKavett,  Texas,  January  3,  1881. 

The  weather  is  quite  cold  and  a  furious  snowstorm  raging.  I 
was  obliged  to  go  two  miles  after  milk  for  the  children  and  to 
help  haul  my  wood  for  the  fires. 

January  21,  1881. 

Spent  two  or  three  hours  with  Colonel  Shafter  last  evening. 
He  has  assured  me  that  he  will  do  everything  in  his  power  to  help 
me  with  the  President  in  getting  justice,  and  I  sent  a  request  to 
the  President  to  remit  a  portion  of  my  sentence,  which  Colonel 
Shafter  approved. 

Spitz  Clous  Station,  January  24,  1881. 

Orders  came  for  me  to  report  before  a  retiring  board  at  San 
Antonio,  and  after  an  hour's  talk  with  Colonel  Shafter,  I  left  Mc- 
Kavett on  the  3  P.  M.  stage,  reaching  this  place  at  6  P.  M.,  ex- 
pecting to  go  on  at  9. 

January  27,  i88i. 

At  ii  A.  M.  received  a  telegram  stating  that  the  President  had 
countermanded  the  order  for  me  to  appear  before  the  board,  which 
is  quite  a  surprise  for  my  enemies,  who  had  a  job  fixed  up  for  me. 

February  2,  1881. 

Major  Weeks,  one  of  the  most  popular  and  leading  citizens  of 
San  Antonio,  is  a  strong  friend  of  mine  and  doing  what  he  can  in 
my  behalf. 

February  7,  1881. 

Colonel  Shafter  came  in  last  night  and  leaves  tomorrow.  He 
has  been  very  kind  and  a  true  friend  to  me,  wanting  me  to  transfer 
into  his  regiment. 

February  18,  1881. 

Colonel  Shafter  invited  me  to  call  on  him  at  his  office,  which  I 
did  today,  and  he  went  all  over  my  case.  He  has  assured  me  of 
his  support. 

March  i,  1881. 

Arrived  at  McKavett  some  days  ago.  Capt.  T.  M.  Tollman  has 
furnished  me  a  copy  of  the  order  from  the  President  amending 
my  sentence  so  as  to  allow  me  full  pay,  which  was  very  important 
to  me. 


491 

April  11,  1881, 

Have  been  fixing  up  deeds  and  papers  to  my  New  Jersey  avenue 
property  which  I  am  deeding  to  Col.  Belden  Noble.  Mr.  Tesson 
has  helped  me  some.  Captain  Richards  has  taken  quite  an  in- 
terest in  assisting  me  with  my  papers  and  transfer  of  property. 

May  16,  1881. 

Had  a  welcome  letter  from  Father  Hobon  this  A.  M.  informing 
me  that  bituminous  coal  had  been  found  on  my  land  in  El  Paso 
county.  Lieutenant  Whitall  of  the  Sixteenth  Infantry  was  greatly 
excited  over  it,  and  desires  to  come  into  partnership  with  me  in 
developing  the  coal. 

May  20,  1 88 1. 

I  telegraphed  the  Adjutant-General  today  requesting  him  to 
delay  the  action  of  the  board  in  my  case  until  after  my  applica- 
tion for  transfer  is  settled. 

May  22,  1 88 1. 

My  orders  to  appear  before  the  board  came  this  A.  M. 

• 

May  23,  1 88 1. 

Made  application  for  transportation  to  take  my  family  to  San 
Antonio,  and  have  been  packing  up,  disposing  of  what  I  cannot 
carry  at  a  great  sacrifice. 

Bear  Creek,  Texas,  May  26,  1881. 

Settled  up  all  my  accounts  this  morning.  We  left  here  at  I 
P.  M.  in  a  four-mule  ambulance  which  Quartermaster  Richards 
has  kindly  loaned  me. 

San  Antonio,  June  3,  1881. 

Arrived  here  yesterday.  Reported  to  the  board,  consisting  of 
Dr.  Middleton,  Colonel  Martin  and  Dr.  Smith,  president  of  the 
board,  who  told  me  to  appear  at  10  A.  M.  tomorrow.  Colonel 
Martin  has  known  me  well  ever  since  boyhood.  I  applied  to  have 
my  horses  kept  in  the  Quartermaster's  stable,  but  application  was 
disapproved. 

June  4,  1881. 

Appeared  at  10  A.  M.  before  the  board,  which  adjourned  until 
Tuesday,  7th.  It  was  decided  it  will  sit  with  open  doors.  I  have 
been  refused  quarters  or  commutation  for  them. 


492 

June  7,  1 88 1. 

Lucy  and  I  appeared  before  the  board  this  A.  M.,  and  I  was 
questioned  as  to  age,  service,  eyesight,  hearing  and  temperature. 
It  was  a  very  thorough  and  interesting  examination,  quite  laugh- 
able for  the  spectators. 

June  10,  1881. 

We  were  again  before  the  board  at  10  o'clock,  where  I  was  al- 
lowed to  read  a  number  of  letters  and  orders  in  connection  with 
my  service  in  1862  and  1863. 

June  14,  1881. 

Took  a  number  of  deeds  and  papers  before  the  board  showing 
my  real-estate  transactions  during  the  last  eight  years.  Colonel 
Newcomb  and  Mr.  Gifford  of  the  Evening  Light  were  present  and 
commented  on  the  case  in  their  papers  this  evening. 

June  1 6,  1 88 1. 

I  appeared  before  the  board  at  10  A.  M.,  and  was  notified  that 
my  case  is  closed.  From  what  I  can  find  out,  the  report  was  a 
favorable  one  to  me. 

June  22,  1881. 

Col.  James  Newcomb  of  the  Evening  Light  and  I  had  quite  a 
conversation,  during  which  he  said  he  did  not  take  any  stock  in 
Clous,  and  proposes  to  go  for  him  in  his  paper  whenever  his  ac- 
tions warrant  it. 

July  4,  1 88 1. 

I  made  one  of  the  most  interesting  and  profitable  trades  in  a 
small  way  today  that  I  ever  made  with  Mr.  Regan  Houston,  who 
had  been  out  several  times  driving  with  me,  appearing  very  anx- 
ious on  several  occasions  to  become  the  owner  of  my  pony  and 
buggy.  Today  he  proposed  the  trade  of  several  building  lots, 
and  1  closed  with  him.  I  bought  my  pony  for  $15,  had  ridden  it 
several  hundred  miles,  drawing  nearly  $100  for  transportation  that 
I  was  entitled  to  if  I  had  come  by  stage ;  bought  the  buggy  for 
$30  and  harness  for  $10,  and  sold  the  outfit  to  Mr.  Houston  in  part 
payment  for  his  lot  for  $500,  and  we  both  appeared  to  be  perfectly 
satisfied  with  the  trade. 

July  12,  1881, 

My  sentence  in  the  morning  report  book  case  was  commuted  to 
half  pay  and  to  serve  the  sentence  out  at  Fort  Concho,  Texas,  the 


493 

headquarters  of  the  regiment.     I  have  been  trying  to  get  trans- 
portation for  my  family  there,  but  find  it  impossible. 

July  13,  1881. 

Went  around  with  Lucy  today  to  look  for  a  house,  and  found  a 
small  one  not  far  from  the  postoffice,  which  I  propose  to  rent  and 
go  to  housekeeping.  Mr.  Paschal  got  up  a  petition  signed  by  the 
principal  citizens  requesting  that  my  sentence  be  remitted.  Col- 
onel Terrell,  Paymaster-General  of  the  Department,  being  a  good 
friend  of  mine,  has  aided  me  in  every  way  possible.  He  loaned  me 
his  horse  and  buggy  today  to  look  around  further  for  houses. 
We  finally  decided  to  take  the  one  corner  Eighth  avenue  and  C 
street  at  $15  per  month. 

Fort  Concho,  Texas,  July  20,  1881. 

Arrived  here  at  12.20,  and  was  immediately  assigned  to  an  un- 
furnished room  in  the  quarters  of  Lieutenant  Davis,  who  invited 
me  to  dine  with  him.  I  had  not  been  here  but  a  few  hours  when 
Colonel  Grierson  issued  an  order  forbidding  me  from  entering 
any  building  at  the  post  except  my  own  room  and  refusing  to 
allow  me  to  dine  with  Lieutenant  and  Mrs.  Davis ;  but  Mrs. 
Davis  sent  my  dinner  into  my  room.  Before  leaving  San  Antonio 
I  did  my  utmost  to  get  permission  from  General  Vincent  to  allow 
transportation  to  bring  my  family  from  San  Antonio  to  Concho, 
but  he  appeared  to  be  in  collusion  with  Colonel  Grierson  and  anx- 
ious to  make  everything  as  unpleasant  for  me  as  possible,  deny- 
ing my  request  and  ordering  me  sent  to  Concho  to  serve  out  the 
balance  of  my  sentence. 

July  21,  1881. 

I  applied  to  General  Grierson  today  for  authority  to  get  my 
meals  at  the  hotel,  but  it  was  disapproved.  Dr.  Carter,  the  Post 
Surgeon,  loaned  me  a  bedstead,  etc.,  from  the  hospital. 

July  22,  1881. 

I  sent  in  my  application  for  transfer  to  the  First  Infantry.  Chap- 
lain Weaver  kindly  sends  my  meals  to  me  for  the  present. 

July  24,  1 88 1. 

Chaplain  Weaver  loaned  me  some  books  and  papers  from  the 
library  today.  Undertook  to  send  a  dispatch  stating  my  condi- 
tion, but  General  Grierson  gave  orders  to  the  telegraph  operator 
forbidding  him  to  send  my  dispatches. 


494 

July  26,  1 88 1. 

Chaplain  Weaver  and  Lieutenant  Davis  call  in  to  see  me  fre- 
quently, and  are  doing  everything  possible  to  make  me  comforta- 
ble. As  my  orders  forbid  me  to  visit  any  building,  officer  or  cit- 
izen at  the  post,  I  am  obliged  to  remain  in  my  room. 

July  28,  1 88 1. 

I  got  hold  of  a  Mexican  boy,  and  have  hired  him  to  bring  my 
meals  from  the  post-trader's  (Colonel  Millspaugh)  to  my  room. 

July  31,  1881. 

Colonel  Grierson  returned  the  application  of  Captain  Walker 
and  myself  for  transfer  yesterday  at  2  P.  M.  disapproved.  I  have 
been  very  sick  most  of  the  day  and  greatly  disheartened. 

August  i,  1 88 1. 

I  have  a  great  deal  of  trouble  in  getting  my  meals  here.  I  have 
not  had  anything  warm  to  eat  for  the  past  two  weeks. 

August  9,  1 88 1. 

Mr.  Delany  sent  me  a  present  of  a  fine  large  watermelon,  which, 
with  a  few  hardtack  and  a  pint  of  milk,  I  have  made  out  very  well 
today. 

August  12,  1881. 

Mr.  Miller  sent  me  six  nice  birds  last  night,  but  not  having  any 
stove  to  cook  them  on,  T  made  a  fire  in  the  fireplace  with  some 
paper  and  trash,  and  after  picking  put  them  on  a  stick  and  broiled 
them,  giving  me  the  first  warm  meal  T  have  had  for  several  weeks. 

August  22,  1881. 

I  wrote  a  strong  letter  to  Department  headquarters  today 
against  Colonel  Grierson's  unjust  and  brutal  treatment. 

September  10,  1881. 

Major  Schofield  left  in  the  stage  this  A.  M.  for  Fort  Davis  to 
sit  as  a  member  on  the  Lieutenant  Flipper  court.  T  wrote  a  long 
letter  to  General  Anger  today. 


495 

September  15,  1881. 

Chaplain  Weaver  and  Dr.  Carter  spent  last  evening  with  me, 
giving  me  points  in  regard  to  Grierson's  effort  to  make  another 
charge  against  me  on  the  ground  that  I  have  broken  my  arrest, 
etc.  He  also  gave  orders  to  the  Chaplain  not  to  allow  me  to  have 
books  and  papers  from  the  library. 

October  3,  1881. 

I  was  very  nervous  all  night,  and  have  been  obliged  to  take 
powders  for  the  past  few  weeks  in  order  to  be  able  to  sleep.  The 
Chaplain  was  with  me  when  I  weighed  at  the  Commissary's  today, 
and  I  only  weighed  136  pounds,  which  is  quite  a  reduction  from 
my  weight  when  I  arrived  at  this  post. 

October  10,  1881. 

Dr.  Carter  called,  and  appears  to  be  very  friendly.  He  sent  me 
a  dozen  more  powders  today  to  make  me  sleep,  but  in  my  nervous 
condition  sleep  is  impossible. 

October  19,  1881. 

Gave  a  telegram  to  the  Adjutant  to  send  Colonel  Terrell  last 
evening,  but  he  returned  it  today,  saying  General  Grierson  would 
not  allow  it  to  go  over  the  wires. 

November  12,  1881. 
Orders  came  today  changing  me  to  Fort  Stockton. 

November  15,  1881. 

I  rode  all  night,  and  scarcely  had  any  sleep.  Met  Major  Was- 
son  within  eight  miles  of  the  post  en  route  back  to  Concho.  Lieu- 
tenants Colloday  and  O'Connell  met  me  at  the  station.  Major 
Walker  invited  me  to  his  quarters. 

November  16,  1881. 

Captain  and  Mrs.  Spencer  were  the  only  ones  who  invited  me 
to  dine  upon  my  arrival  last  evening.  I  advised  him  to  start  for 
Washington  as  quickly  as  possible  and  head  off  the  confirmation 
of  Smithers,  who  has  been  doing  all  he  could  to  get  him  or  me  out 
of  the  Army  in  order  to  get  the  position  for  himself. 

November  23,  1881. 

Had  an  interview  with  Col.  J.  W.  Forsythe  today.  He  as- 
sumed a  great  deal  of  dignity,  and  I  soon  saw  that  he  was  no  friend 
of  mine  and  that  I  could  not  depend  upon  him  to  assist  in  any  of 
my  affairs. 


496 

December  8,  1881. 

A  raffle  for  Captain  Spencer's  piano  came  off  last  night.  I 
threw  34,  Mrs.  Bates  42,  Lieutenat  Davis  37  and  Captain  Calla- 
han  42,  making  a  tie  between  Mrs.  Bates  and  Captain  Callahan. 
They  finally  settled  it  by  Mr.  Bates  paying  Captain  Callahan  $200 
for  his  throw,  and  he  gets  the  piano. 

December  31,  1881. 

It  is  almost  a  miracle  that  I  am  alive  after  having  gone  through 
the  mental  worry  and  physical  strain  on  account  of  the  arbitrary 
and  brutal  actions  of  Gen.  B.  H.  Grierson,  Maj.  Thomas  M.  Vin- 
cent, General  Ord,  Col.  M.  M.  Blunt  and  the  Dutchman.  They 
seemed  to  do  everything  they  could  to  make  life  disagreeable  in 
the  regiment  and  to  force  me  to  tender  my  resignation  simply 
because  I  happened  to  have  been  restored  by  an  act  of  Congress. 
But  I  have  made  up  my  mind  to  submit  to  everything  and  not 
allow  myself  to  be  forced  out  of  the  regiment  without  just  cause, 
knowing  that  I  had  committed  no  offense  and  given  them  not  the 
slightest  grounds  for  their  persecutions,  but  hoping  that  time 
would  bring  out  the  truth  and  expose  the  characters  of  these  men 
who  had  been  fostered  in  the  Army.  General  Ord,  who  everyone 
knows  had  a  very  good  reputation  some  years  ago,  seems  to  be  in 
his  dotage  and  entirely  handled  by  his  subordinates,  who  were  en- 
emies of  mine.  They  induced  him  to  agree  with  them  on  every- 
thing they  would  recommend.  He  has  become  so  weak-minded 
that  he  should  not  be  entrusted  with  any  responsibility  whatever; 
but  of  course  I  have  to  submit  to  the  orders  of  my  superior,  no 
matter  how  unjust.  My  sole  object  is  to  do  what  is  right,  just  and 
honorable  as  long  as  I  have  strength  to  keep  up.  When  I  ar- 
rived at  Fort  Concho  to  undergo  my  sentence  I  weighed  175 
pounds,  and  when  I  left  I  was  reduced  to  ninety-five  pounds,  all 
brought  on  by  persecution  of  Colonel  Grierson  and  those  in- 
terested in  helping  him  to  carry  out  his  vile  purpose. 

Having  made  application  for  a  reduction  of  my  sentence,  Gen- 
Shafter  approved,  and  that  part  of  the  sentence  putting  me  on 
half  pay  was  remitted. 

The  following  communications  and  extracts  during  the  year 
just  closed  will  throw  additional  light  on  my  difficulties  and  their 
cause : 


WAE    DEPARTMENT, 


©ffixc  of  the  QPhief  j&ifiniri  ©ffi«r, 


•^  c&<* 


</• 


./L 


49S 

THE    ARMES    CASE. 

(San  Antonio  Evening  Light,  June  13,  1881.) 

This  morning  we  dropped  into  military  headquarters,  where 
Captain  Armes  was  undergoing  a  sort  of  examination,  as  we  take 
it,  before  a  board  of  experts  upon  some  feature  of  a  previous  trial, 
the  sentence  in  which  trial  has  not  yet  been  promulgated.  The 
gentlemen  constituting  the  board  or  commissision  were  taking 
matters  very  comfortably.  Dr.  Smith  seemed  to  be  the  presiding 
genius,  while  Dr.  Midclleton  and  Colonel  Martin  seemed  to  be 
side  partners  in  the  firm. 

Captain  Armes  was  reading  letters  from  prominent  persons  in 
civil  and  military  life  touching  upon  transactions  connected  with 
his  history,  which  would  form  an  interesting  chapter  in  a  book. 
The  court  occasionally  asked  a  question  or  scanned  a  letter  from 
some  important  person  as  if  to  satisfy  themselves  if  it  was  genuine, 
but  on  the  whole  seemed  to  be  bored  by  the  Captain's  statement, 
which  was  a  concise  history  of  his  life  in  the  Army  and  out  of  it. 
Colonel  Martin  remarked  at  one  stage  of  the  statement  that  he 
had  never  heard  Captain  Armes'  integrity  as  a  man  questioned, 
and  he  did  not  see  that  the  numerous  letters  produced  showing 
Captain  Armes'  high  standing  had  anything  to  do  with  the  matter 
in  hand.  As  the  reporter  had  no  explanation  of  the  matter  in 
hand,  the  letters  seemed  pertinent  enough  so  far  as  they  went  to 
show  that  Captain  Armes  enjoyed  the  confidence  and  respect  of 
the  best  men  in  the  nation. 

It  is  a  strange  proceeding  and  not  explainable  upon  any  rules 
laid  down  in  civil  tribunals.  When  a  party  is  charged  with  any 
offense  the  rule  in  all  tribunals  in  this  free  country  is  that  the 
burden  of  proof  lies  with  the  accuser.  Tn  this  case  it  seems  that 
Captain  Armes  is  the  culprit  and  is  compelled  by  his  own  state- 
ment and  presence  to  prove  the  falsity  or  truth  of  the  charge  to 
be  investigated.  The  court  is  judge,  jury,  prosecutor  and  witness. 

We  anticipate  an  entire  acquittal  of  the  Captain  upon  the  mat- 
ter of  his  sanity,  so  far  as  the  court  of  inquiry  is  concerned,  just 
from  what  we  know  of  the  high  standing  of  the  gentlemen  com- 
posing the  court. 

Tn  this  connection  we  will  say  that  Captain  Armes  seems  to 
have  made  himself  conspicuous  in  the  charges  that  ousted  Secre- 
tary Belknap,  and  that  he  has  been  in  hot  water  ever  since.  Cap- 
tain Clous,  the  Judge  Advocate  General  of  this  Department,  has 
kindly  handed  us  a  copy  of  the  findings  of  proceedings  in  the 
court-martial  which  sentenced  Captain  Armes  to  be  dismissed 
from  the  Army,  the  Captain  remarking  that  we  should  be  posted 
about  this  man  before  we  made  any  publication  in  the  case,  and 
that  one  of  the  charges  embraced  the  murder  of  a  soldier  in  his 
(Armes)  command.  We  desire  to  say  that  we  shall  be  cautious 
in  espousing  the  cause  of  a  man  who  was  arraigned  and  dismissed 


499 

the  service  upon  such  a  serious  charge,  and  shall  fully  investigate 
the  matter  and  give  our  readers  our  conclusions  so  far  as  they  may 
be  of  interest  to  the  general  public. 

SAN    ANTONTO    SIFTINGS. 

(The  Tom  Green  Times,  Saturday,  July  23,  1881.) 
Capt.  George  A.  Armes  left  this  morning  for  his  post  at  Fort 
Concho  in  compliance  with  court-martial  orders  of  last  week. 
The  treatment  Captain  Armes  has  received  is  shamefully  unjust 
and  a  disgrace  to  the  United  States  Army.  The  members  of  the 
court-martial  that  promulgated  such  a  sentence  are  more  deserv- 
ing of  dismissal  from  the  service  than  is  the  victim  of  their  perse- 
cution, and  we  hope  to  see  the  day  when  the  odium  of  their  acts 
will  cause  them  to  hide  their  heads  in  shame. 

Fort  Concho,  Texas,  July  20,  1881. 
To  the  Post  Adjutant : 

Sir — Having  reported  here  in  compliance  with  G.  C.  M.  Order 
No.  42,  Adjutant-General's  Office,  Washington,  July  i,  1881,  I 
respectfully  request  that  my  limits  be  assigned  so  as  to  include  the 
Nemitz  Hotel,  as  that  is  the  only  place  where  I  can  obtain  my 
meals  that  I  am  aware  of  at  present. 

Respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
(Signed)         G.  A.  ARMES, 

Captain  Tenth  Cavalry. 

(First  endorsement.) 
Headquarters  Fort  Concho, 

Fort  Concho,  Texas,  July  20,  1881. 

Respectfully  returned  to  Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  Tenth  Cavalry, 
disapproved.  The  limits  of  his  arrest  as  designated  in  letter  to 
him  of  this  date  cannot  be  changed.  Captain  Armes  must  make 
arrangements  for  his  meals  within  the  limits  assigned  him. 

By  order  of 

COL.  B.  H.  GRIERSON. 
(Signed)         I.  O.  SHELBY, 
First  Lieut.  Sixteenth  Inf.,  Post  Adjutant. 
Fort  Concho,  Texas,  July  21,  1881. 
To  the  Post  Adjutant : 

Sir — I  respectfully  state  for  the  information  of  the  Post  Com- 
mander that  I  have  not  had  a  mouthful  of  food  to  eat  since  yes- 
terday about  two  o'clock,  and  that  was  kindly  sent  to  my  room 
by  Lieut,  and  Mrs.  Davis.  I  desire  to  know  whether  or  not  your 
order  assigning  my  limits  prevents  my  going  to  Mr.  Millspaugh's- 
premises  to  try  and  get  necessaries  or  to  the  reading-room  at  the 
post. 

Respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Captain  Tenth  Cavalry. 


500 

October  5,  1881. 
Dear  Major : 

I  have  been  thinking  very  much  about  you  and  your  present 
troubles,  and  the  more  I  think  of  it  the  more  I  am  led  to  believe 
that  your  only  chance  is  to  get  out  of  the  Tenth  Cavalry  and  enter 
some  other  regiment.  I  have  been  informed  of  the  action  taken 
on  your  proposed  exchange  into  the  First  Infantry  by  the  Depart- 
ment Commander.  He  simply  forwarded  the  application  without 
any  recommendation.  This  being  the  case,  I  am  more  than  ever 
convinced  that  the  suggestion  I  made  to  you  in  my  last  letter  if 
acted  upon  by  you  would  result  more  favorably. 

*  *  *     "  *  *  *  *  *    '  *  *  * 

If  you  will  send  an  application  to  me  to  hand  to  Captain  Russel 
to  exchange  with  him  I  will  sound  him  before  saying  anything  to 
commit  you  about  it.  If  he  should  invite  the  proposition  I  will 
then  submit  it.  I  am  satisfied  that  he  would  be  glad  to  exchange 
to  a  regiment  serving  in  this  department,  and  I  did  not  think  Gen- 
eral Grierson  would  oppose  the  exchange  if  he  thought  he  would 

get  him  into  his  regiment  and  that  General  Auger  would  favor  it. 
*********** 

Truly  yours, 

C.  M.  TERRELL. 


CHAPTER  XX. 

January  6,  1882. 

Colonel  Wade  had  the  five  companies  turned  out  to  the  funeral 
of  Private  Starks  yesterday.  Chaplain  Baldridge  conducted  the 
services.  All  the  officers  and  ladies  attended.  My  sentence  being 
almost  out,  I  am  now  preparing  for  duty.  Have  greatly  improved 
since  arriving  at  this  post,  considering  that  I  have  been  allowed 
so  few  privileges  and  recreations. 

January  18,  1882. 

1  met  my  first  sergeant  at  the  stables  this  A.  M.  and  gave  him 
orders  to  bring  the  morning  report  book  to  me  for  signature.  I 
signed  it  and  reported  for  duty  to  Colonel  Wade  at  guard-mount. 
He  then  began  to  show  his, hostility  by  informing  me  that  I  had 
no  right  to  report  for  duty  until  he  had  given  me  written  orders, 
in  spite  of  my  general  order  showing  that  my  sentence  had  ex- 
pired. He  finally  ordered  me  out  on  drill,  however,  and  tried  his 
best  to  catch  me  in  some  mistake  upon  which  to  ground  another 
charge,  although  1  had  not  drilled  for  many  months. 

January  20,  1882. 

Spent  last  evening  with  General  McClerry,  Adjutant-General  of 
the  State;  Mr.  Callahan,  Mayor  of  San  Antonio,  ana  Mr.  Smith, 
a  capitalist  of  New  Orleans.  After  mounted  drill  I  invited  them, 
with  Captain  Heiner,  for  a  horseback  ride,  calling  on  Mr.  Rooney, 
one  of  the  prominent  ranchmen  in  the  neighborhood.  Upon  our 
return  to  the  post  Major  Walker  got  up  an  elaborate  dinner  and 
invited  Judge  Frazier  to  dine  with  us. 

January  21,  1882. 

Last  evening  after  I  received  the  report  of  my  company  Col- 
onel Wade  sent  for  me  to  report  to  him,  when  he  reprimanded 
me  for  associating  with  citizens,  and  demanded  the  names  of  the 
gentlemen  who  were  my  guests,  informing  me  such  action  re- 
flected upon  the  Army,  doing  his  best  to  cause  me  to  say  some- 
thing that  would  warrant  charges,  but  I  was  on  my  guard,  an- 
swered his  questions,  saluted  and  left  him. 

January  22,  1882, 

Mr.  Rooney  called  on  me  today  and  stated  that  he  would  take 
the  Colorado  tract  which  Lieutenant  Davis  had  given  me  to  sell, 
and  would  pay  me  $3200  cash  for  it.  I  immediately  telegraphed 
Lieutenant  Davis. 


On  Road  to  Pecos  Railroad  Station,  January  27,  1882. 
Colonel  Wade  sent  me  a  copy  of  a  telegram  from  headquarters 
granting  me  a  leave,  and  I  at  once  started  for  the  station. 

San  Antonio,  Texas,  January  29,  1882. 

Arrived  at  4  this  A.  M.,  and  took  Lucy  and  the  children  by  sur- 
prise. They  show  the  effects  of  anxiety  and  worry  during  the  past 
six  or  eight  months'  hardships  which  they  have  undergone  at  the 
hands  of  Augur,  Grierson  and  Vincent,  whom  I  look  upon  as 
brutes  instead  of  human  beings. 

January  30,  1882. 

Colonel  Andrews  gave  me  a  pass  for  myself  and  family  to 
Houston.  I  have  been  packing  up  ready  to  start  for  Washington 
as  soon  as  possible. 

New  Orleans,  February  7,  1882 

Colonel  Andrews  gave  me  a  letter  to  Captain  Burton  for  a  pass, 
and  upon  arriving  here  I  got  special  rates  through  to  Washington. 

! 

Washington,  D.  C.,  February  10,  1882. 

Yesterday  I  visited  the  War  Department  and  registered;  also 
called  on  Generals  Drum  and  Hazen,  Major  Beebe  and  Colonel 
Corbin. 

February  17,  1882. 

Called  on  General  Drum,  who  says  he  will  help  me  in  every  way 
he  can;  also  Inspector-General  Baird,  a  friend  of  Captain  Walker, 
who  promised  to  do  what  he  could  to  help  our  transfer.  General 
Hazen  and  Major  Beebe  helped  me  to  fix  up  a  letter  to  the  Sec- 
retary of  War.  Saw  Major  Geddes  for  a  short  time.  Captain 
Little's  bill  failed  to  pass  today. 

February  19,  1882. 

Spent  the  most  of  last  evening  with  Senator  Coke  and  Mr. 
Upson  of  Texas,  who  are  helping  me  in  every  way  they  can  with 
my  transfer. 

February  20,  1882. 

Congressman  Upson  went  with  me  to  the  War  Department  and 
had  quite  a  long  talk  with  General  Drum,  but  we  are  not  able  to 
accomplish  anything. 

March  25,  1882. 

For  the  past  few  weeks  I  have  been  busily  engaged  in  getting 
my  new  houses  built  on  the  Tenth  street  lot.  Colonel  Plato  in- 


503 

troduced  me  to  General  Bee  of  Texas,  who  became  interested 
with  me  in  a  patent  stone.  He  introduced  me  to  Colonel  Shaw  of 
Galveston  and  Colonel  Swisher  of  Austin,  who  called  with  me  on 
General  Swaim  and  Colonel  Rockwell,  when  we  fixed  up  a  stock 
company  to  purchase  the  patent  for  Texas. 

April  6,  1882. 

Captain  Edwards,  Adolph  Zadeck,  Governor  Davis  and  I  went 
to  a  drugstore  and  bought  material  for  making  stone.  I  called 
on  Senator  C.  B.  Farwell  at  the  Arlington,  who  is  one  of  the  com- 
pany interested  in  building  the  State  Capital  at  Austin,  and  is  try- 
ing to  arrange  to  build  it  of  our  material. 

April  8,  1882. 

In  spite  of  getting  the  cement,  sand,  etc.,  the  men  from  Colonel 
Thorpe's  works  failed  to  go  to  work,  and  I  had  to  hire  green 
hands.  Have  been  at  work  all  day  trying  to  make  a  specimen  of 
the  stone  after  the  patent.  My  application  for  extension  of  leave 
of  absence  was  returned  here  today  disapproved  by  Grierson, 
Augur,  Wade  and  Sheridan. 

April  29,  1882. 

Had  a  long  talk  with  General  Hancock  at  Wormley's  last  even- 
ing; also  met  Major  Mitchell,  his  Adjutant-General,  who  is  on  a 
visit  here  with  him. 

May  i,  1882. 

Had  quite  a  long  talk  today  with  Secretary  Blaine  in  regard  to 
coal  mines  which  Governor  Hunt  of  Colorado  has  induced  me  to 
become  interested  in. 

May  3,  1882. 

Called  on  General  Ingalls  with  Miss  Tillman,  and  he  gave  me 
a  strong  letter  of  introduction,  marking  it  "special,"  to  Commis- 
sioner Dudley. 

May  15,  1882. 

Met  Col.  Robert  G.  Ingersoll  at  his  house,  who  went  with  me 
to  see  General  Swaim,  where  he  and  Colonel  Rockwell  got  in  a 
carriage  with  me  and  drove  out  to  see  some  building  lots  on  Meri- 
dian Hill,  after  which  General  Swaim  and  Colonel  Ingersoll  went 
with  me  to  see  Secretary  Teller  about  having  me  detailed  as  an 
Indian  instructor,  etc.  Ingersoll  also  saw  General  Drum  in  my 
behalf,  who  objected  to  my  applying  for  a  detail,  which  caused  me 
to  believe  he  was  playing  the  traitor,  when  he  had  always  ap- 
peared to  be  my  most  trusted  friend,  but  I  believe  him  now  to  be 
a  snake  in  the  grass. 


504 

May  25,  1882. 

1  have  been  very  busy  all  day  with  my  friends  in  trying  to  get 
my  leave  extended,  but  it  looks  now  as  if  General  Sherman  will 
not  approve  it. 

May  26,  1882. 

Was  at  the  War  Department  again  today  and  had  a  long  talk 
with  Colonel  Corbin,  Major  Barber  and  General  Swaim,  but  it 
seems  useless  for  me  to  try  to  have  my  leave  extended,  as  Colonel 
McKeever  has  misrepresented  me  in  such  a  way  that  anything  I 
can  say  or  do  will  have  no  effect  upon  Mr.  Lincoln,  who  appears 
against  me. 

At  Baltimore  &  Ohio  Depot,  May  29,  1882. 

Saw  Col.  Robert  G.  Ingersoll  this  A.  M.,  who  was  just  starting 
for  New  York  to  deliver  an  address  at  the  Academy  of  Music. 
He  wished  me  success  and  assured  me  that  I  could  always  rely 
upon  him  as  one  of  my  best  friends,  and  not  to  hesitate  to  call  upon 
him.  I  then  bade  Senator  Farwell,  General  Hazen,  Arthur  Kerr, 
Colonel  Schull  and  my  brother  good-bye.  Went  to  the  house  and 
gave  my  foreman  instructions  in  regard  to  the  building,  kissed 
my  wife  and  four  darlings  good-bye,  and  left  on  the  8.40  P.  M.  train 
for  Texas. 

Abilene,  Texas,  June  4,  1882. 

Arrived  here  at  7  this  A.  M.,  and  no  transportation  on  hand. 
The  car  was  left  for  my  men  to  use  as  quarters.  Train  stopped 
twenty  minutes  for  breakfast,  and,  bidding  Judge  Hancock  and 
wife  and  Mrs.  Rush  and  a  party  of  prospectors  good-bye,  we  re- 
sumed our  journey  at  n  o'clock.  Lieutenant  Cooper  arrived 
to  take  command  of  the  troops,  and  I  telegraphed  the  Adjutant- 
General  of  the  Department  for  further  orders. 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  June  7,  1882. 

Upon  arrival  here  found  that  Colonel  Wade  had  sent  his  trans- 
portation back  to  Stockton  and  had  gone  East.  Lieutenant  Bul- 
lis  kindly  shared  his  blankets  with  me  last  night  on  the  floor  in 
the  postofnce,  but  neither  of  us  could  sleep.  At  3  o'clock  the  stage 
arrived,  and  we  started  on  the  25-mile  ride  which  was  to  bring  us 
to  Victoria,  J.  Morrow's  ranch,  where  he  branched  off  for  Fort 
Davis,  and  I  arrived  here  at  7  P.  M.,  reporting  to  the  Post  Ad- 
jutant, William  Lassiter,  who  introduced  me  to  Major  McClel- 
lan  of  my  regiment,  a  good,  honest,  fair-minded  soldier. 


505 

June  9,  1882. 

I  assumed  command  of  my  company  yesterday  and  took  Lieu- 
tenant Morrison's  quarters,  who  has  made  out  receipt  to  Lieut. 
P.  E.  Tripp  of  my  regiment  for  my  company  property  and  funds. 
Major  McClellan  inspected  my  horses  and  stables  today,  picking 
out  eight  to  be  condemned. 

June  14,  1882. 

My  company  and  a  portion  of  G  serenaded  me  about  1 1  o'clock 
last  night,  and  at  2  o'clock  this  A.  M.  I  was  called  out  to  quell 
a  disturbance  at  St.  Gaul,  where  one  man  was  shot. 

June  18,  1882. 

Went  on  duty  as  Officer  of  the  Day  this  A.  M.  and  relieved 
Lieutenant  Morrison. 

July  3,  1882. 

The  past  few  weeks  I  have  been  engaged  at  target  practice, 
drilling  and  attending  to  and  getting  my  company  in  shape. 
Major  McGlellan  left  me  in  command  of  the  post.  Captains 
Smithers  and  Kelly  are  here  on  a  visit  and  acting  as  spies  on  me. 

July  4,  1882. 

I  got  up  a  big  affair  today.  Invited  ranchmen  and  cowboys  to 
take  an  active  part  in  the  performances.  My  company  put  up  a 
greased  pole,  and  we  had  a  pig  shaved  and  greased.  Got  up  a 
wheelbarrow  race  and  sack  race,  Major  McClellan  excusing  his 
whole  command  in  order  that  they  might  enjoy  the  fun.  Had  sev- 
eral splendid  horseraces.  In  fact,  we  had  one  of  the  liveliest  en- 
tertainments that  was  ever  held  in  this  section  of  the  country.  I 
treated  the  cowboys  to  plenty  of  beer,  made  a  short  speech  and  in- 
vited them  to  vote  for  Hon.  John  Hancock  as  the  best  man  they 
could  send  to  Congress.  He  was  duly  elected. 

July  31,  1882. 

Colonel  Wade  ordered  me  to  have  every  man  of  my  command 
ready  for  inspection  today,  but  saw  nothing  to  find  fault  with. 

August  i,  1882. 

WTent  on  duty  as  Officer  of  the  Day,  relieving  Captain  Lee. 
Major  Dodge  and  Russell  arrived  at  10  A.  M.  Had  orders  to 
bring  my  company  out  for  mounted  inspection  at  6  P.  M. 


506 

August  3,  1882. 

Major  Dodge  paid  the  command  yesterday  afternoon,  after 
which  I  had  mounted  drill,  and  was  complimented  by  Major 
Russell  lor  handling  my  men  in  the  skirmish  drill,  which  he  said 
could  not  have  been  done  better  by  anyone.  The  Major  in- 
spected my  quarters,  company,  books  and  records,  and,  although 
Colonel  Wade  was  with  him  a  portion  of  the  time,  they  seemed  to 
be  unable  to  find  any  fault  with  my  management  or  the  condition 
of  the  company  or  records. 

September  8,  1882. 

The  actions  of  Colonel  Wade  since  his  return  from  Fort  Davis 
have  worried  me  very  much.  He  also  questioned  a  number  of  en- 
listed men  of  my  company,  trying  to  find  grounds  for  involving 
me  in  trouble. 

September  10,  1882. 

Sold  my  ambulance,  harness  and  horses  for  $400  less  than  they 
were  really  worth  to  Richards,  finding  it  necessary  to  raise  cash 
in  order  to  pay  my  family's  expenses  back  to  this  post. 

September  15,  1882. 

Dr.  Powell  ordered  me  on  the  sick  report  today ;  also  ordered 
hot  baths  and  a  special  attendant  to  take  care  of  me  on  account  of 
my  weak  and  nervous  condition. 

September  18,  1882. 

Colonel  Wade,  having  failed  to  find  any  good  grounds  for  pre- 
ferring charges  before,  thought  he  made  such  a  discovery  today 
in  regard  to  a  few  books  not  having  been  sent  to  Davis,  but  after 
a  short  explanation  he  was  satisfied. 

September  25,  1882. 

I  asked  Colonel  Wade  to  allow  me  my  man  Robinson  today  to 
do  some  writing  for  the  company,  when  he  very  insultingly  ac- 
cused me  of  only  wanting  him  because  he  had  detailed  him  at  his 
office.  He  is  doing  everything  he  can  to  prevent  my  having  as- 
sistance in  keeping  my  company  in  condition,  encouraging  the 
men  to  be  insubordinate,  etc. 

November  2,  1882. 

I  applied  again  to  the  Adjutant-General  of  the  Department  for 
a  sick  leave,  but  Dr.  Carter,  who  is  sort  of  a  "boot-lick"  for  Col- 
onel Wrade,  is  entirely  under  his  thumb.  As  Wade  doesn't  want 
me  to  have  it,  Dr.  Carter  will  not  report  in  my  favor. 


507 

November  4,  1882. 

Sat  up  with  Lieutenant  Ward.  He  has  been  under  the  weather 
for  some  time,  and  is  one  of  my  best  friends  among  the  officers 
in  the  regiment.  My  application  was  returned  today  at  10  o'clock 
with  Dr.  Carter's  endorsement,  failing  to  express  an  opinion, 
which  convinced  me  that  he  had  been  directed  by  Colonel  Wade 
not  to  do  so. 

November  8,  1882. 

Lieutenant  Ward  spent  last  evening  with  me  trying  to  cheer 
me  up,  doing  everything  he  could  to  prevent  me  from  paying  any 
attention  to  Colonel  Wade's  brutal  action.  Went  on  duty  as 
Officer  of  the  Day  this  morning. 

November  15,  1882. 

Sent  a  telegram  to  Colonel  Terrell  last  night,  who  answered  it 
today,  saying,  "Leave  sent  to  Washington  approved."  Lieu- 
tenant Ward  is  assisting  me  in  every  way  he  can. 

November  23,  1882. 

Relieved  Lieutenant  Colloday  as  Officer  of  the  Day.  Received 
telegram  from  General  Drum  saying  General  of  the  Army  disap- 
pr6ved  my  leave.  Made  a  request  to  the  Department  Head- 
quarters for  seven  days,  with  permission  to  apply  for  thirty  days, 
and  Colonel  Wade  returned  it  not  favorably  considered.  Dr. 
Carter  still  gives  me  powders  to  try  to  make  me  sleep. 

November  25,  1882. 

General  Drum  telegraphed  that  Secretary  of  War  declined  to 
give  me  leave  or  allow  my  application  to  go  to  the  President. 

November  30,  1882. 

Colonel  Wade  sent  a  note  to  the  officers  last  evening  that  full- 
dress  inspection,  mounted,  would  take  place  at  9.30  this  A.  M. 
I  was  on  time  to  the  minute  with  my  command,  and  although 
Colonel  Wade  did  everything  possible,  to  find  fault  with  some- 
thing, he  failed  in  every  instance,  my  records  and  troops  being  in 
the  best  condition. 

December  14,  1882. 

After  breakfast  I  went  to  the  Commissary  Department  and 
bought  a  lot  of  stores  for  the  use  of  my  troops.  Went  to  target 
practice  and  fired  from  600  to  1000  yards,  making  an  excellent 
score. 


508 

December  22,  1882. 

Mr.  Eugene  McCrohan  took  breakfast  with  me  this  morning, 
and  after  a  drive  to  Torris  Ranch  we  made  a  big  land  deal,  in 
which  he  agrees  to  pay  me  $14,800  in  cash.  The  agreement  was 
signed  and  accepted.  Mr.  Carnegie  and  Mr.  Torris  both  dined 
with  me  today.  News  of  the  death  of  Colonel  Schofield  came 
today.  It  is  reported  he  shot  himself  while  in  one  of  his  insane 
moods. 

December  24,  1882. 

I  bought  some  pigs  and  presented  them  to  my  company,  which 
they  will  have  roasted  tomorrow,  as  they  expect  to  have  one  of  the 
finest  dinners  at  the  post.  My  first  sergeant  invited  me  down 
to  look  at  the  tables  today,  and  several  of  the  officers  and  ladies 
of  the  post  accompanied  me  there.  They  complimented  me  on 
having  one  of  the  finest,  and  best-arranged  tables  of  any  company 
that  was  ever  known  to  have  had  a  Christmas  dinner  at  this  post. 
A  number  of  roast  pigs  with  apples  in  their  mouths,  roast  chick- 
ens, trays  full  of  doughnuts  eggnogg,  potato  and  lobster  salad, 
splendid  cake,  chowchow,  fruit,  raisin  pudding  with  brandy  sauce, 
chocolate,  tea,  coffee,  etc. 

December  31,  1882. 

Orders  were  issued  for  muster  and  inspection  at  9  this  A.  M., 
but  were  countermanded,  and  we  did  not  have  it  until  1.30  P.  M., 
and  then  in  full  dress.  Had  two  long  letters  from  Mr.  Fisk  and 
Colonel  Shafter,  Had  my  muster-rolls  all  ready  and  company  in 
perfect  order.  No  fault  was  found  by  the  mustering  and  inspect- 
ing officer. 

In  settling  up  my  accounts  for  the  past  year  I  find  that  I  have 
made  between  $15,000  and  $16,000  in  speculations  and  commis- 
sions in  spite  of  my  persecutions  and  the  trouble  and  annoyances 
I  have  had  with  Grierson  and  his  clique.  I  also  have  nearly  com- 
pleted two  houses  in  Washington  at  a  cost  of  $18,600,  which  I 
presented  to  my  wife.  They  were  built  by  Mr.  John  Frazier,  the 
architect  who  built  the  houses  of  the  British  minister  and  Mr. 
Elaine.  I  am  still  in  command  of  my  company  in  spite  of  every 
effort  to  bring  charges  against  me. 

As  in  previous  chapters,  I  append  a  series  of  self-explanatory 
communications  and  extracts  covering  the  year  just  ended : 


509 


Fort  Ouitman,  Texas,  January  9,  1881. 
Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  Fort  Stockton,  Texas : 

Captain — Your  very  kind  letter  of  the  3Oth  inst.  found  me  here 
instead  of  at  Davis. 

I  have  telegraphed  Mr.  Shields,  who  is  a  personal  friend  of 
mine,  to  telegraph  you  the  information  desired,  and  no  doubt  he 
has  done  so  ere  this. 

I  know,  or  have  the  best  reasons  in  the  world  for  believing, 
I  am  acquitted  of  embezzlement  entirely.  Of  the  second  charge 

1  am  doubtful,  but  I  hope  for  the  best.    It  is  laid  under  the 

Article  of  War.  As  to  the  final  result  I  have  no  fears.  If  you  can 
get  any  information  pending  the  case  please  be  kind  enough  to 
communicate  it  to  me.  The  gentlemen  from  your  post  who  were 
on  my  court  stood  by  me,  as  I  believe,  like  true  men.  I  can  never 
thank  Captains  W.  and  H.  too  much  for  their  kindness. 
*********** 

Yours  most  sincerely, 

HENRY  O.  FLIPPER, 
Second  Lieut.  Tenth  Cavalry. 

San  Antonio,  Texas,  January  30,  1882. 
Hon.  C.  Upson,  Washington,  D.  C. : 

Dear  Sir — Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  whom  you  know,  desires,  in 
accordance  with  the  wishes  and  judgment  of  his  friends,  to  be 
transferred  from  the  Tenth  Cavalry  to  the  First  Infantry.  Cap- 
tain Armes  has  rendered  arduous  service  to  Texas,  and  has  many 
friends  among  the  people  of  your  district,  who  will  be  gratified  by 
any  personal  exertion  you  may  make,  either  alone  or  in  conjunc- 
tion with  General  Maxey,  in  furthering  the  object  he  has  at  heart. 
Believe  me,  yours  most  truly, 

HENRY  C.  KING. 

San  Antonio,  Texas,  January  31,  1882. 
Hon.  C.  Upson,  Washington,  D.  C. : 

Dear  Sir — The  bearer,  Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes  of  the  Tenth  Cav- 
alry, is  a  gentleman  well  known  to  the  writer  and  to  some  of  the 
best  citizens  of  San  Antonio,  who  all  speak  in  the  highest  terms  of 
him  as  an  officer  and  a  gentleman,  and  I  feel  assured  that  any  as- 
sistance you  can  give  him  will  be  appreciated  by  your  constituents 
who  are  acquainted  with  Captain  Armes,  besides  being  bestowed 
on  a  worthy  gentleman. 

Respectfully, 

J.    C.    COCHRAN, 

Editor  Times. 


Washington,  D.  C.,  February  16,  1882. 
To  the  Honorable  the  Secretary  of  War 

(Through  the  Adjutant-General,  U.  S.  A.) : 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  respectfully  invite  your  attention  to 
the  following  facts  relating  to  my  efforts  to  effect  a  transfer  from 
the  Tenth  Cavalry  to  the  First  Infantry,  and  to  appeal  to  your  au- 
thority that  justice  may  be  done  me  and  the  transfer  be  made. 

On  May  18,  1881,  I  signed  an  agreement  of  transfer  with  Fergus 
Walker,  Captain  First  Infantry,  herewith  enclosed,  bearing  the 
endorsement  of  Colonel  Grierson,  Tenth  Cavalry,  and  accom- 
panied by  Colonel  Shafter's  remarks  upon  the  subject. 

On  August  7  an  application  for  transfer  was  made  by  Captain 
Walker  and  myself  and  sent  through  regular  military  channels 
to  the  Adjutant-General,  which  was  not  favorably  considered  by 
the  General  of  the  Army. 

In  a  recent  interview  with  the  General  of  the  Army  he  in- 
formed me  that  he  had  disapproved  my  application  for  transfer  in 
consequence  of  the  disapproval  of  my  regimental  commander, 
Colonel  Grierson,  who  again  in  a  telegram  to  the  General  of  the 
Army  on  the  i6th  inst.  "emphatically  refused"  to  approve  the 
transfer.  I  am  denied  copies  of  the  endorsements  in  this  case,  and 
am  not  permitted  to  know  the  reasons  for  the  unfavorable  consid- 
eration given  it  by  Colonel  Grierson. 

I  have  respectfully  to  inform  the  Honorable  Secretarv  that 
since  my  restoration  to  the  Tenth  Cavalry  in  May,  1878,  charges 
most  trivial  in  character  and  unworthy  of  consideration  have  been 
repeatedly  manufactured  and  preferred  against  me  in  order,  as  I 
believe,  to  render  my  life  in  the  regiment  too  miserable  to  be 
borne,  and  this  system  of  persecution  has  been  followed  with  so 
much  vindictive  bitterness  on  General  Grierson's  part  as  to  make 
a  transfer  from  his  regiment  my  only  hope  for  happiness,  or  com- 
fort even,  to  myself  and  family  or  for  the  best  results  from  my 
efforts  to  render  myself  an  efficient  and  useful  officer  of  the  Gov- 
ernment. This  hostility  of  General  Grierson  towards  me  is  notori- 
ous, and  I  most  earnestly  and  hopefully  appeal  to  the  Honorable 
Secretary. 

It  is  my  full  belief  that  General  Grierson's  desire  for  my  present 
retention  in  his  regiment  is  not  the  result  of  a  wish  to  benefit  the 
service,  but  that  he  hopes  to  drive  me  from  it  eventuallv,  thus 
creating  a  vacancy  for  the  promotion  of  his  own  son  and  other 
favorites.  I  am  told  that  he  has  made  the  boast  that  the  "result 
of  the  next  court-martial"  would  compel  me  to  leave  the  service. 

I  state  plainly  that  General  Grierson  is  not  friendly  to  me,  as  is 
well  and  notoriously  known,  and  that  he  can  have  no  friendly 
reason  for  desiring  my  retention  in  his  regiment,  but,  on  the  con- 
trary, in  my  opinion,  his  desire  is  to  keep  me  there  for  unfriendly 
purposes,  and  my  only  and  last  hope  for  ending  the  difficulties 


and  persecutions  from  which  I  have  suffered  under  his  command 
is  to  be  permitted  to  serve  elsewhere,  where  I  can  prove  to  the 
Army  and  its  General  that  I  am  worthy  of  their  confidence,  and 
this  is  my  only  purpose  in  making  this  request. 

I  am,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES, 
Capt.  Tenth  Cavalry,  U.  S.  A. 

Through  the  assistance  of  a  Senator  I  obtained  the  following 
endorsements  from  the  War  Department: 

(Endorsements  on  the  foregoing.) 

Tt  is  the  uniform  practice  in  dealing  with  mutual  applications 
for  transfer  from  one  regiment  or  corps  to  another  to  regard 
favorably  the  recommendations  of  regimental  commanders.  Act- 
ing upon  this,  the  General  of  the  Army,  without  other  considera- 
tion, disapproved  the  transfer. 

Unfortunately  for  Captain  Armes,  his  military  career  has  been 
such  as  not  to  entitle  him  to  that  high  consideration  bestowed  on 
the  personal  applications  of  more  worthy  officers. 

Respectfully, 
(Signed)         R.  C.  DRUM, 

Adjutant- General. 
February  20,  1882. 

Headquarters  of  the  Army, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  February  23,  1882. 

Respectfully  submitted  to  the  Honorable  Secretary  of  War, 
disapproved. 

Captain  Armes  is  commissioned  to  the  Tenth  Cavalry.  Trans- 
fers from  cavalry  to  infantry  and  vice  versa  are  only  usual  on 
mutual  application  of  the  parties  approved  by  the  Colonels.  In 
tli is  case  Colonel  Grierson  disapproved,  and  on  my  applying  to 
1'im  by  telegraph  in  the  interest  of  Captain  Armes,  present  in 
Washington,  Colonel  Grierson  most  emphaticallv  disapproves. 

(Signed)         W.  T.  SHERMAN, 

General. 

War  Department,  February  28,  1882. 

This  application  has  been  submitted  to  the  President  and  is  dis- 
approved by  him. 

(Signed)         ROBERT  T.  LTNCOLX. 

Secretary  of  War. 


512 

War  Department,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  March  2,  1882. 
Capt.  George  A.  Armes,  Tenth  Cavalry,  Washington,  D.  C. : 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  inform  you  that  your  communication 
of  the  1 6th  ult.  renewing  your  request  for  transfer  to  the  First 
Infantry,  etc.,  has  been  returned  to  this  office  by  the  Secretary  of 
War  endorsed  by  him  as  follows  :.  "This  application  has  been  sub- 
mitted to  the  President  and  is  disapproved." 

The  following  gentlemen  composed  the  Texas  Stone,  Marble, 
Tile  &  Paint  Co.,  which  I  organized  March  25  to  build  the  State 
capitol  of  Texas :  capital  $5,000,000 : 

Gen.  W.  R.  Hazen,  U.  S.  A.,  Washington,  D.  C.;  Hon.  James 

B.  Shaw,  Galveston,  Texas;  Hon.  Hamilton  P.  Bee,  San  Antonio. 
Texas;  Hon.  John  M.  Swisher,  San  Antonio,  Texas;  Maj.  Geo. 
A.  Armes,  U.  S.  A.,  San  Antonio,  Texas  ;  Mr.  John  Frazier,  Wash- 
ington, D.  C. ;  Col.  A.  F.  Rockford,  U.  S.  A.,  Washington,  D.  C. ; 
Col.  H.  C.  Corbin,  U.  S.  A.,  Washington.  D.  C. ;  Gov.  Edward  J. 
Davis,  Austin,  Texas  ;  Hon.  John  C.  Brown,  St.  Louis,  Mo. ;  Hon. 

C.  B.  Farwell,  Chicago,  TIL;  Hon.  Branch  T.  Matterson,  Galves- 
ton, Texas;  Hon.  Morgan  R.  Wise,  Waynesboro,  Pa. 

My  being  ordered  to  my  command  prevented  me  from  going 
ahead  with  the  enterprise,  and  it  finally  fell  through,  all  of  us  los- 
ing what  money  we  had  invested  in  it. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  April  17,  1882. 
Gen.  R.  C.  Drum, 

Adjt.-Gen.,  U.  S.  A.,  Washington,  D.  C.: 

Sir — My  application  for  an  extension  of  leave  not  having  been 
granted,  I  have  the  honor  to  request  that  my  application  to  trans- 
fer to  the  First  Infantry,  with  Capt.  Fergus  Walker,  be  reconsid- 
ered by  the  Hon.  Secretary  of  War,  in  view  of  the  fact  that  it  is  an 
impossibility  for  me  to  live  in  peace  in  the  Tenth  Cavalry.  There- 
fore, I  again  most  earnestly  appeal,  not  only  in  my  own  interest, 
but  in  that  of  the  public  service,  for  the  transfer  I  request. 
Respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

•  G.  A.  ARMES, 

Capt.  Tenth  Cav, 


513 


fV***:  3L,7^-x 


m  *^£^*£z£r 


*^ 

/^ 


/? 


\Vashington,  D.  C.,  May  4,  1882. 
Capt.  Robt.  G.  Heiner, 

First  U.  S.  Inf.,  Washington,  D.  C.: 

Dear  Captain — You  arid  I  having  known  each  other  a  number 
of  years,  and  served  together  at  the  same  post,  I  would  like  to  have 
your  opinion  as  to  my  transferring  with  Capt.  Fergus  Walker  of 
your  regiment,  and  whether  or  not  it  will  meet  the  approval  of  the 
officers  of  your  regiment. 

Yours  truly, 

G.  A.  ARMES, 

U.  S.  A. 

33 


^~  &*t-*^     ^^*s<&-*--A^r>~*^£r       ^^^^--v-, 

g,'i^2-^     ~3£*-y     (-j^-^-i^A—f— ** s£ 

^^ff-^c^^k^  f 


r*  w^^  ^      *&£•    <££  v-L+y    4ter*-^ 

' 


Washing-ton,  D.  C,  May  5,  1882. 
Captain  Arnies: 

Dear  Sir — Should  you  effect  a  transfer  into  the  First  Infantry  \ 
shall  be  happy  to  welcome  you  into  the  regiment.    I  have  heard  no 
officer  express  himself  unfavorable  to  the  transfer. 
I  am,  very  truly  yours, 

ROUT.  G.  HEINER, 

Capt.  First  Foot. 


515 

(First  Endorsement.) 

Post  of  Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  October  n,  1882. 
Respectfully  referred  to  the  Post  Surgeon,  who  will  examine 
Captain  Armes,  and  report  whether,  in  his  opinion.  Captain 
Armes'  condition,  either  mental  or  physical,  is  such  as  to  require 
his  being  relieved  from  any  or  all  of  his  duties.  This  paper  to  be 
returned. 

J.  F.  WADE, 

Lieut-Col.  Tenth  Cav.,  Comdg. 
E.  B.  328—82. 

War  Department,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  D.  C,  December  22,  1882. 
Capt.  -George  A.  Armes, 

Tenth  Cavalry,  Fort  Stockton,  Texas, 
(Through  Headquarters  Military  Division  Missouri): 
Sir — Referring  to  your  communication  of  the  4th  inst.,   ad- 
dressed to  the  President,  appealing  from  the  adverse  action  of  this 
Department  on  your  recent  application  for  leave  of  absence,  and 
requesting  that  you  be  granted  two  months'  leave,  I  have  the 
honor  to  inform  you  that  the  Secretary  of  War  does  not  deem  it 
necessary  to  submit  your  request  to  the  President,  and  declines  to 
grant  the  leave  asked  for. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)     R.  C.  DIU'M. 

Adjutant-Genera  1 . 


CHAPTER  XXI. 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  January  I,  1883. 

I  went  on  duty  as  Officer  of  the  Day  this  A.  M.,  and  at  1 1  o'clock 
invited  Colonel  Wade,  Dr.  Carter  and  the  ladies  of  the  post  to  see 
the  dinner  I  had  prepared  for  my  troop.  I  dined  with  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Corbit  this  afternoon,  after  having-  made  a  number  of  calls 
with  Dr.  Carter  and  Lieutenant  Tripp. 

January  4,  1883. 

Yesterday  Colonel  Wade,  Lieutenant  Colloday,  Dr.  Carter  and 
1  compared  muster-rolls  and  found  that  quite  a  number  of  mis- 
takes had  been  made  by  my  company  clerk,  and  at  1 1  o'clock  today 
Colonel  Wade  re-examined  them,  with  the  company  fund  account, 
approving  and  passing  everything  as  satisfactory  in  spite  of  his 
zealous  effort  to  find  fault. 

January  9,  1883. 

Sent  my  wife  a  long  letter  today,  registered,  enclosing  $1030, 
with  instructions  for  her  to  pack  up  everything  and  bring  the  chil- 
dren out  here  the  first  opportunity. 

January  12,  1883. 

Colonel  W7ade  returned  the  application  that  I  made  yesterday 
to  be  relieved  on  acount  of  my  health  from  my  hard  and  extra 
duties,  saying  that  he  had  no  authority  to  relieve  me  from  duty. 
I  also  received  a  telegram  from  General  Vincent  requiring  me  to 
pay  for  an  official  telegram  that  T  had  sent  to  the  Chief  Paymaster, 
when  I  am  as  legally  entitled  to  the  use  of  the  wires  as  any  other 
officer.  My  application  not  being  approved,  of  course  required 
me  to  remain  on  duty,  and  T  am  doing  the  best  I  can  under  the 
circumstances,  and  have  to  keep  a  vigilant  watch  out. 

February  7,  1883. 

I  have  my  troop  in  very  good  condition,  and  look  after  all  de- 
tails in  person  daily,  superintending  kitchens,  the  cooking  of 
each  meal,  issuing  the  rations,  and  even  watch  the  horses  to  keep 
the  men  from  running  them  when  they  go  to  water,  which  they 
will  do  unless  carefully  looked  after  by  an  officer.  Lieutenant 
Colloday  relieved  me  as  Officer  of  the  Day,  as  I  am  now  on  duty 
as  Judge- Advocate  of  a  general  court-martial,  and  have  had  a 


517 

good  deal  of  work  to  do  on  the  Johnson  case.  Sixteen  years 
have  elapsed  since  I  was  Judge- Advocate  of  a  court-martial  be- 
fore. I  drilled  my  troop,  mounted  and  dismounted,  and  had  tar- 
get shooting  today. 

The  following  extract  shows  that  I  had  not  been  idle  in  my 
real-estate  affairs  in  spite  of  my  persecutions  in  the  Army : 

(Washington  Republican,  February  10,  1883.) 

THE  BUILDING  BOOM. 

Additional  Houses  Which  Will  Be  Erected  in  the  Spring — De- 
tailed Description  of  the  Proposed  Portland  Extension-- 

Capitol  Hill  to  be  Improved  by  Many  New  Dwellings. 
*********** 

IN  THE  CENTRAL  PORTION  OF  THE  CITY. 

The  most  noticeable  improvement  is  the  two  beautiful  houses, 
now  ready  for  occupancy,  owned  by  Airs.  George  A.  Armes  and 
finished  under  her  supervision.  Both  of  the  houses  have  been 
leased  upon  terms  which  pay  handsomely  upon  the  investment. 
The  fronts  are  moulded  pressed  brick,  with  bay  windows,  having 
three  stories,  with  furnace-room  below,  and  kitchen  in  the  rear 
basement,  with  stationary  range,  and  the  upper  stories  contain 
four  spacious  bedrooms,  with  bathroom  and  linen  closets.  They 
are  finished  throughout  in  oak,  with  open  grates  in  every  room. 
The  arrangements  for  light  and  ventilation  are  very  complete. 
John  Frazer  was  the  architect,  and  S.  M.  Plumley  the  contractor. 

General  Vincent  appearing  so  anxious  that  I  should  pay  for  any 
little  messages  sent  over  the  wires,  T  obtained  the  following  frank 
from  General  Hazen,  Chief  Signal  Officer.    (See  Vincent's  letter, 
March  7) : 
No.  609. 

U.  S.  Military  Telegraph  Lines. 
Office  of  the  Chief  Signal  Officer, 

Washington  City,  March  i,  1883. 

A  frank  for  sending  social  messages  is  granted  Capt.  Geo.  A. 
Armes,  Tenth  Cavalry,  until  December  31,  1883,  unless  sooner 
recalled,  subject  to  the  conditions  printed  on  reverse  side  of  this 
card. 

W.  B.  HAZEN, 

Chief  Signal  Officer. 


5i8 

Washington,  D.  C,  March  6,  1883. 
My  Dear  Armes : 

I  enclose,  the  pass.  I  was  glad  to  get  your  letter.  I  don't  think 
the  old  set  will  do  much  mischief,  although  they  would  do  a  great 
deal  if  they  could.  We  are  both  very  much  pleased  with 

Let  me  know  of  any  special  and  well-defined  information  you 
may  have. 

Respectfully, 

W.  B.  HAZEN, 

Although  there  were  several  companies  of  troops  at  the  post 
who  had  been  idle  for  some  time,  the  moment  that  news  of  an 
Indian  outbreak  came  into  the  post  Colonel  Wade  sent  me,  with- 
out the  assistance  of  any  other  officer,  after  the  marauding,  thiev- 
ing and  most  desperate  band  of  Indians  that  inhabited  that  sec- 
tion of  the  country,  who  were  committing  murders  and  depreda- 
tions upon  the  settlers  whenever  an  opportunity  occurred. 

Fort  Stockton,  April  14,  1883. 

Captain  Armes: 

Move  with  your  troop  as  rapidly  as  possible,  without  hurting 
your  stock,  to  Pear's  Spring,  Mussey's  Ranch.  From  Pear's 
Spring  there  is  a  trail  to  Independence  Creek,  fifteen  miles.  If 
possible,  get  Mr.  Mussey  to  send  a  man  with  you  as  guide.  If  you 
should  find  fresh  Indian  trail  before  reaching  Independence  Creek, 
you  must,  of  course,  follow  it  and  use  every  endeavor  to  overtake 
and  punish  Indians.  If  you  do  not  find  trail,  go  to  Independence 
Creek  and  shut  valley.  Notify  stockmen,  and  endeavor  to  get  in- 
formation of  direction  taken  by  Indians  and  movements  of  other 
troops,  and  act  as  seems  best  under  the  circumstances.  If  the  trail 
from  Pear's  Spring  to  creek  is  not  practicable  for  wagons,  leave 
your  wagon  at  Mussey's  and  take  pack  mules.  If  you  should,  after 
scouting  the  country  about  Independence  Creek,  find  the  Indians 
have  not  been  there,  and  be  unable  to  get  news  regarding  them, 
send  to  the  railroad  at  ThurstonV  Station  and  ask  by  telegraph 
for  further  orders.  Should  you  follow  a  trail,  or  for  any  reason 
require  more  rations  or  forage  before  you  return,  you  will  be  sup- 
plied by  sending  word  either  by  telegraph  or  by  a  detachment,  as 
may  be  most  convenient,  and  saying  when  you  will  be  at  some 
point  to  meet  them. 

Respectfully, 

(Signed)         J.  F.  WADE, 
Lieut.-Col.  Tenth  Cav.,  Comdg. 


519 

The  importance  of  my  mission  is  another  proof  that  Colonel 
Wade  looked  upon  me  as  one  who  was  fully  competent  to  perform 
my  duty  physically  and  mentally  as  well  as,  if  not  better  than,  any 
other  officer  at  the  post — a  fact  which  is  in  direct  conflict  with  his 
own  statements  made  to  Department  Headquarters  representing 
me  as  an  officer  who  should  not  be  entrusted  with  a  command. 

Escondida,  Texas,  April  14,  1883. 

Lieutenant  Colloday  relieved  me  as  Officer  of  the  Day,  and  at 
i  P.  M.  Colonel  Wade  rushed  into  my  room  with  orders  for  me 
to -start  after  the  Indians  immediately.  I  had  four  mules  packed, 
and  left  with  forty-two  men  and  fifteen  days'  rations,  and  have 
marched  twenty  miles  this  evening",  but  have  a  poor  outfit  to  ac- 
complish anything  in  case  I  should  meet  a  war  party  of  Indians, 
the  packers  all  being  green  and  inexperienced  and  most  of  the 
men  raw  recruits. 

On  the  Pecos,  Sixteen  Miles  from  Pecos  Springs, 

April  15,  1883. 

Left  at  daybreak  ;  marched  ten  or  fifteen  miles,  and  stopped  to 
graze  my  animals  at  the  old  stage  ranch  Escondido.  Reached 
McCrohan's  ranch  at  2  P.  M.,  where  I  rested  an  hour,  and  have 
just  arrived,  at  8  this  P.  M.,  making  a  march  of  fifty-five  miles 
today. 

Camp  Bullis,  April  16,  1883. 

Pulled  out  of  camp  at  daybreak ;  reached  Pecos  Springs,  where 
1  halted  a  short  time,  and  dined  with  Hart  Mussey,  who  sent  one 
of  his  cowboys  by  the  name  of  Long  as  scout  and  guide.  I  made 
splendid  headway  today,  considering  the  terribly  rough  country 
and  the  canons  and  mountains  we  had  to  pass  over,  marching 
thirty-four  miles. 

Geddes  Ranch,  April  17,  1883. 

Discovered  quite  a  number  of  fresh  pony-tracks,  which  were 
scattered  in  the  mountains,  where  the  Indians  are  watching  an 
opportunity  to  ambush  me  if  possible.  Therefore  I  had  to  be  on 
my  guard.  Halted  a  short  time  at  Mr.  Ramey's  ranch.  He 
marched  with  my  command  as  far  as  Weaver's  ranch,  which  we 
found  deserted  and  a  note  left  on  the  table  by  Mr.  Weaver  stating 
that  he  had  left  for  Mayer's  Springs.  We  found  quite  a  large  sup- 


520 

ply  of  dried  beef  in  his  ranch,  which  I  ordered  my  commissary 
sergeant  to  divide,  and  just  as  he  was  about  to  issue  it  Mr.  Weaver 
and  his  cowboys  returned,  stating  that  he  had  heard  that  soldiers 
had  been  sent  out  to  their  rescue,  lie  immediately  presented  us 
with  the  beef  and  a  sack  of  flour,  and  joined  us  for  the  rest  of  the 
march  this  evening.  We  are  now  in  a  splendid  camp,  plenty  of 
water  and  grass,  and  have  marched  forty-five  miles. 

Upon  arriving  at  Thurston  Station,  Texas,  the  first  telegraph 
office  I  had  come  to  after  leaving  Stockton,  I  sent  the  following 
dispatch : 

Thurston  Station,  Texas,  April  18,  1883. 
Adjutant-General,  Dept.  of  Texas,  San  Antonio: 

Scouted  to  Musil's  Ranche,  where  I  sent  wagon  back;  then 
scouted  to  Independence  Valley.  Saw  a  few  pony  tracks.  Ram- 
sey lost  one  horse — rope  cut  from  stake.  Indian  horse  found  on 
his  range.  Guides  furnished  from  each  ranche  by  Richland  Valley 
and  Getty's  Springs  to  Meyer's  Springs.  Saw  two  mounted  men 
in  Richland  Valley  from  top  of  mountain;  supposed  to  be  Indians, 
there  being  no  cattlemen  in  neighborhood.  Marched  nearly  200 
miles.  Horses  in  good  condition.  Leave  tomorrow  for  Eagle's 
Nest  with  two  Seminoles.  Scout  up  Rio  Grande  to  Shafter's 
Crossing,  to  try  and  intercept  Indians  that  may  be  crossing,  ex- 
pecting to  reach  Haymond  on  23d  inst. ;  from  there  to  Pena,  Col., 
for  rations  and  forage,  and  on  to  Stockton,  subject  to  approval. 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Capt.  Tenth  Cav. 

Information  having  reached  Department  Headquarters  that  the 
Indians  had  all  gone  into  Mexico,  the  following  dispatch  was  sent 
in  reply : 

Headquarters  Department  of  Texas, 

San  Antonio,  Texas,  April  18,  1883. 
Captain  Armes, 

Thurston: 

Commanding  General  authorizes  you  to  return  to  Stockton  by 
most  direct  and  advantageous  route. 

Recent  information  renders  it  unnecessary  for  you  to  take  route 
mentioned  in  your  telegram  this  date. 

VINCENT, 

Asst.  Adjt-Gen. 

Mayer's  Springs,  Texas,  April  18,  1883. 

Mr.  Ramsay  joined  us  at  10  last  night,  and  being  familiar  with 
the  mountains,  assisted  me  in  finding  the  paths  and  getting 


521 

through  them.  Several  of  my  horses  fell  and  rolled  down  the 
mountains,  but  I  have  not  lost  any  animals  today.  It  was  an  in- 
teresting sight  to  see  one  of  the  pack  mules  slip  and  roll  over  and 
over  several  hundred  feet  and  land  at  the  bottom  of  the  mountains, 
and  then  get  up  and  look  around  as  if  he  was  surprised  at  his  ex- 
tra performance.  We  have  marched  about  fifteen  mile  today.  I 
marched  out  across  the  Rio  Grande  and  over  into  old  Mexico, 
where  the  Indians  have  taken  refuge,  as  I  had  driven  them  out  of 
Texas,  but  do  not  consider  it  policy  to  follow  them  very  far  into 
that  country,  and  returned  to  my  camp. 

Sanderson  Railroad  Station,  Texas,  April  20,  1883. 
After  marching  about  thirty-five  miles,  I  went  into  camp  near 
this  station,  and  as  a  passenger  train  passed  by  newspapers  were 
thrown  out  by  the  dozen,  the  first  news  we  had  seen  for  nearly 
two  weeks.  There  is  a  California  company  here  which  has  bored 
for  water  over  900  feet  and  hasn't  found  it.  There  are  only  two 
women  in  the  entire  village.  The  men  do  their  own  cooking,  milk 
the  cows  and  do  their  housework. 

Maxon  Springs,  April  21,  1883. 

Left  Sanderson  Station  at  daybreak  this  A.  M.,  and  reached  this 
place  at  i  o'clock.  Met  Colonel  Fisher  and  Mr.  Gallagher,  who 
are  going  to  San  Antonio,  just  over  from  Fort  Stockton.  My 
horses  have  stood  the  march  well,  and  are  looking  fine.  There  is 
a  steam  engine  here  that  pumps  water,  forcing  it  through  pipes  to 
the  railroad  tank,  running  night  and  day,  between  one  and  two 
miles  from  the  station. 

While  absent  from  my  company  some  false  charges  in  regard  to 
property  were  sent  in  to  the  War  Department,  and  my  pay  was 
stopped  for  $11.80,  which  I  soon  explained  and  was  vindicated. 

Ellis  Ranch,  Texas,  April  22,  1883. 

Marched  this  morning  at  daybreak,  reaching  Hegmond  Station 
at  10  o'clock,  where  I  halted  at  3  P.  M.,  giving  the  men  a  good 
dinner,  and  met  Mr.  H.  D.  Lincoln,  who  invited  me  to  dine  with 
him.  Sent  Sergeant  Cole  and  two  men  after  deserters. 

Fort  vStockton,  Texas,  April  23,  1883. 

Marched  at  sunrise,  reaching  this  post  at  2  P.  M.,  without  the 
loss  of  a  man  or  a  horse.  The  animals  are  in  good  condition,  not 
one  lagging  back. 


522 

May  25,  1883. 

Colonel  Wade  has  gone  to  Cincinnati,  leaving  me  in  command 
of  the  post  until  the  arrival  of  Colonel  Van  Vliet,  and  I  have  had 
an  opportunity  to  get  copies  of  a  number  of  letters  and  endorse- 
ments from  the  post  records  which  cannot  but  bring  discredit 
upon  any  officer  of  the  Army  who  has  been  guilty  of  framing  such 
wilful  lies  and  misrepresentations  about  me. 

May  29,  1883. 

This  is  my  thirty-ninth  birthday,  and  Ethel  was  the  first  to  hug 
and  kiss  me  thirty-nine  times,  then  Cecily,  and  , lastly,  George  and 
Lucy.  Lieutenant  and  Mrs.  Tripp  and  I  drove  to  the  post  garden 
with  the  children,  where  we  had  refreshments  and  a  grand  setout. 
Sergeant  Cowans  had  fixed  up  tents  and  awnings,  which  made  a 
beautiful  little  camp  for  my  invited  guests,  and  all  had  a  delight- 
ful time  swinging,  etc. 

Having  left  Private  Watson  at  a  ranch  to  take  charge  in  place 
of  the  owner,  who  volunteered  to  assist  me  in  following  the  trail 
of  the  Indians,  it  was  understood  that  said  Watson  was  to  do  his 
own  cooking  and  look  after  the  affairs  of  Mr.  Ramsay  during  his 
absence.  Upon  his  return  to  the  post  he  made  a  false  statement  in 
regard  to  my  requiring  him  to  work  for  this  man,  and  when  1 
preferred  charges  against  him  for  making  a  false  report  over  my 
head  to  the  Post  Commander,  Colonel  Wade  refused  to  bring 
him  to  trial,  when  I  immediately  sent  copies  of  affidavits  Irom 
reliable  witnesses  sustaining  my  charges,  but  Colonel  Vincent  re- 
fused to  have  him  brought  to  trial,  and  required  me  to  pay  for  the 
acknowledgment  of  the  affidavits  in  addition,  which  proves  his 
prejudice  and  failure  to  sustain  me  in  my  military  duties. 

After  getting  access  to  the  post  records  1  found  that  Colonel 
Wade  had  made  a  number  of  misrepresentations  to  Department 
Headquarters,  doing  his  utmost  to  force  me  out  of  the  regiment. 
Not  being  able  to  obtain  any  evidence  against  me  that  would  war- 
rant a  court-martial,  he  resorted  to  another  mode  by  trying  to 
have  me  put  on  the  retired  list,  which  caused  me  to  send  the  fol- 
lowing letter,  which  I  will  admit  looked  rather  unmilitary,  but  I 
found  it  necessary  to  speak  the  truth,  which  1  could  sustain  : 


523 

To  the  Adjutant-General  of  the  Army: 

In  reply  to  an  application  of  Lieut.-Col.  J.  F.  Wade,  Tenth  Cav- 
alry, dated  Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  June  28,  1883,  recommending 
me  for  retirement,  I  have  the  honor  to  state  that  any  man  holding 
an  office  of  trust  under  the  Government  of  the  United  States  who 
would  deliberately  take  advantage  of  his  office,  and  the  little  power 
or  authority  extended  to  him,  to  misrepresent,  try  to  injure  and 
sneakingly  villify  a  gentleman  whose  character  is  above  reproach, 
without  the  least  cause,  is  not  only  a  coward,  but  a  creature  who 
disgraces  the  position  a  gentleman  is  supposed  to  fill.  Colonel 
Wade  well  knows  he  uttered  an  untruth  wrhen  he  said  I  was  in- 
competent to  perform  the  duties  incident  to  my  rank  and  position 
in  the  Army,  when  he  knows  he  has  not  been  able  to  find  one  flaw 
in  the  management  or  administration  of  my  company  affairs  that 
would  hold  water  after  an  investigation  of  facts,  although  he  has 
acted  in  the  capacity  of  a  spy,  or  detective,  towards  me  more  than 
like  an  officer  or  gentleman.  When  he  asserts  it  would  be  a  grave 
injustice,  and  unsafe  to  entrust  a  command,  or  officer,  or  volunteer, 
now  under  me,  he  states  what  is  not  true,  and  I  defy  him  to  show 
an  instance,  during  his  acquaintance  with  me,  where  any  action 
on  my  part  towards  any  one  of  my  command  will  give  him  the 
least  ground  to  base  such  a  charge.  When  Colonel  Wade  goes  on 
to  say  that  the  administration  of  the  affairs  of  my  troop  and  deal- 
ings generally  with  officer,  soldier  and  citizen  is  such  as  to  bring 
discredit  upon  the  service,  he  is  guilty  of  an  unmanly  lie,  and  I 
defy  him  to  prove  his  statement. 

In  order  to  try  to  sustain  his  report,  he  connived  with  the  As- 
sistant Surgeon,  Dr.  Carter,  to  make  the  following  statement, 
which  is  contradictory  to  the  statements  previously  made,  and 
which  are  submitted  to  substantiate  what  I  charge: 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  June  28,  1883. 
Adjutant-General,  Department  of  Texas: 

Sir — 1  have  the  honor  to  recommend  that  the  necessary  action 
be  taken  to  have  Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  Tenth  Cavalry,  ordered  be- 
fore a  retiring  board,  with  a  view  to  his  retirement  from  active  ser- 
vice. I  make  this  recommendation,  as,  in  my  opinion,  Captain 
Armes  is  incompetent  to  perform  the  duties  incident  to  his  rank 
and  position  in  the  Army,  and  I  believe  it  to  be  a  grave  injustice 
to  require  officers  or  enlisted  men  to  serve  under  his  command, 
that  it  is  unsafe  to  entrust  him  with  a  command  that  rightfully 
belongs  to  his  rank,  or  with  any  independent  command.  Cap- 
tain Armes  is  not  a  dissipated  man,  but  his  administration  of  the 
affairs  of  his  troop  and  his  dealings  generally  with  officers,  soldiers 
and  citizens  is  such  as  to  bring  discredit  upon  the  service  iind 
make  him  the  laughing-stock  of  the  community.  I  think  the  rec- 
ords at  Department  Headquarters  and  the  War  Department  will 


524 

show  Captain  Armes'  incapacity  to  properly  perform  his  duties 
more  fully  than  anything  1  can  say.  If  witnesses  are  wanted  T 
would  refer  to  any  officer,  soldier  or  citizen  who  has  been  at  this 
post  during  the  past  year  or  more.  I  am  fully  convinced  that  the 
interest  of  the  service  demands  that  Captain  Armes  should  not  be 
kept  on  duty,  and  I  earnestly  request  that  action  be  taken  in  his 
case  as  early  as  possible. 

Attention  is  respectfully  invited  to  the  endorsed  statements  of 
Assistant  Surgeon  J.  L.  Powell  and  Wm.  F.  Carter,  and  to  the 
enclosed  extracts  from  the  post  records. 

(Signed)         J.  F.  WADE, 
Lieut-Col.  Tenth  Cav.,  Comdg. 
Pages  63,  64  and  65. 

P.  L.,  Lieutenant. 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  June  23,  1883. 
Lieut.-Col.  J.  F.  Wade,  U.  S.  A., 

Commanding  the  Post: 

Sir — In  compliance  with  your  intsructions  of  the  22d  inst.,  that 
I  should  report  to  you  my  professional  opinion  as  to  the  mental 
and  physical  condition  of  Capt.  G.  A.  Armes,  U.  S.  A.,  I  have  the 
honor  to  state  that  I  have  known  Captain  Armes  for  several  years, 
and  that  he  has  come  under  my  professional  observation  at  two 
different  periods.  My  first  acquaintance  with  Captain  Armes  was 
in  1881,  while  he  was  serving  a  sentence  of  suspension  at  Fort 
Concho,  Texas,  then  the  headquarters  of  his  regiment  (Tenth  Cav- 
alry). During  the  period  of  his  stay  at  Fort  Concho  Captain 
Armes  was  almost  constantly  under  treatment.  His  general 
health  was  bad — nervous  prostration,  with  excitement,  mental 
irritability,  habitual  insomnia,  loss  of  appetite  and  general  loss  of 
strength,  conditions  originating,  in  my  opinion,  in  the  worry  and 
mental  anxiety  incident  to  his  situation.  His  condition  became 
so  serious  at  one  time  that  I  had  made  up  my  mind  to  recommend 
a  speedy  change  in  his  case,  believing  firmly  that  Captain  Armes' 
mental  condition  was  becoming  alarming,  and  that  my  duty  re- 
quired that  I  should  interpose  my  professional  advice.  There  was 
an  amelioration,  however,  in  his  condition  under  the  influence  of 
anodynes  and  nerve  tonics.  These  were  necessary  to  secure  for 
him  anything  like  a  sound  sleep.  Upon  his  change  of  station  he 
passed  from  under  my  observation  until  September  25,  1882,  when 
I  assumed  the  duties  of  Post  Surgeon  at  this  post,  then  and  at 
present  Captain  Armes'  station.  I  found  Captain  Armes'  condi- 
tion improved,  as  might  be  expected,  for  here  the  same  causes 
which  operated  against  him  during  the  first  period  of  my  acquaint- 
ance with  him  did  not  exist,  the  surroundings  here  being,  I  be- 
lieve, quite  as  favorable  to  him  as  they  could  well  be;  yet,  in  my 
opinion,  the  same  conditions  of  mental  excitability,  more  or  less 
nervous  prostration  and  impaired  general  health  exist,  though,  as 


I  said  before,  in  a  less  degree.  A  careful  analysis  and  study  of 
these  conditions  prove  conclusively  to  my  mind  that  they  may  be 
traced  to  (are  merely  symptoms  of  a  permanent  nervous  derange- 
ment) a  shattered  nervous  system.  Captain  Armes  at  different 
times  has  been  excused  from  duty  and  treated  for  nervous  head- 
ache and  neuralgia,  and  lias  frequently  complained  of  and  been 
treated  for  rheumatism.  These  troubles  in  most  cases  are  appar- 
ently induced  by  a  little  unusual  exertion  of  mind  or  body.  I  have 
no  hesitancy  whatever  in  declaiming  my  belief  that  Captain 
Armes'  condition  is  such  as  to  render  him  unfit  for  the  responsi- 
bility and  duties  incident  to  the  service, .even  as  they  occur  in  the 
comparatively  easy  and  regular  routine  of  ordinary  garrison  life, 
and  positively  incapacitates  him  to  meet  and  discharge  any 
weighty  responsibility  that  might  arise  in  any  emergency. 
I  have  the  honor  to  be,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)        W.  F.  CARTER, 
Asst.  Surg.,  U.  S.  A.,  Post  Surgeon. 

After  Colonel  Jewett  took  command  of  the  post  I  again  applied 
for  a  leave  of  absence  on  acount  of  my  health,  not  because  I 
wanted  to  get  away  from  Colonel  Jewett,  who  was  one  of  the  best 
commanding  officers  I  had  served  under  for  some  time,  and  if  I 
had  continued  to  serve  under  him  I  co«  J  soon  have  recovered 
my  health ;  but  knowing  that  upon  the  return  of  Colonel  Wade  I 
would  again  be  subjected  to  almost  inhuman  treatment,  I  found  it 
necessary  to  do  my  utmost  to  get  relieved  from  some  of  the  duties 
of  an  officer  of  my  rank  until  I  might  be  ordered  before  a  board 
for  retirement.  Colonel  Jewett  approved  the  application  and 
asked  that  leave  be  granted  as  soon  as  practicable. 

Finally  a  board  was  assembled  to  meet  at  San  Antonio,  two 
members  of  which  had  hitherto  been  members  of  a  court-martial 
and  had  violated  their  oaths,  finding  me  guilty  of  charges  trumped 
up  by  Grierson  and  his  clique  to  force  me  out  of  the  service.  I 
felt  that  Colonel  Sweitzer  and  Major  Hough  had  been  specially 
selected  to  force  me  out  of  active  service,  but  after  they  had 
sworn  they  were  not  prejudiced  I  allowed  them  to  remain  and 
submitted  my  case. 

August  T,  1883. 

Made  an  application  to  be  relieved  from  all  duties  or  respon- 
sibility with  my  troop,  requesting  that  an  officer  be  designated  to 
receipt  to  me  for  all  property. 


526 

August  10,  1883. 

Lieutenant  Davis  of  niv  regiment  lias  receipted  to  me  for  all 
my  property,  having,  after  a  careful  examination,  found  every- 
thing in  perfect  order,  and  I  turned  my  troop  over  to  him.  I  am 
away  ahead  on  the  company  fund,  and  everything  is  in  good 
shape.  1  have  missed  scarcely  a  day  from  duty  this  year,  being 
alone  a  great  deal  of  the  time  and  doing  from  two  to  four  officers' 
work. 

In  the  meantime  this  board  was  secretly  and  arbitrarily  or- 
dered for  the  purpose  of  forcing  me  on  the  retired  list  before  an 
opportunity  has  been  given  to  receive  the  benefit  of  my  leave  and 
to  recuperate,  as  recommended  by  the  Post  Surgeons. 

That  T  was  on  duty  up  to  the  day  of  being  ordered  before  the 
retiring  board  is  evidenced  by  the  following  order : 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  August  6,  1883. 
Orders  No.  67. 

TIT.  To  enable  him  to  hold  himself  in  readiness  to  appear  be- 
fore the  Retiring  Board,  in  compliance  with  S.  O.  No.  167,  July 
21,  1883,  A.  G.  ().,  Capt.  G.  A.  Armes,  Tenth  Cavalry,  is  hereby 
relieved  from  command  of  Troop  "L,"  Tenth  Cavalry,  and  will 
transfer  to  First  Lieut.  Wm.  Davis,  Jr.,  Tenth  Cavalry,  all  prop- 
erty, funds  and  records  pertaining  to  the  troop,  taking  proper  re- 
ceipt for  the  same. 

IV.  First  Lieut.  Wm.  Davis.  Jr.,  Tenth  Cavalry,  will  assume 
command  of  Troop  "L,"  Tenth  Cavalry,  and  receipt  to  Capt.  G. 
A.  Armes,  Tenth  Cavalry,  for  all  property,  funds  and  records  per- 
taining to  the  troop,  taking  proper  invoice  for  the  same. 

By  order  of 

MAJOR  JEWETT. 
(Signed)         JNO.  B.  MCDONALD, 

Second  Lieut.  Tenth  Cav.,  Post  Adjt. 
CAPT..  G.  A.  ARMES, 

Tenth  Cavalry. 

Haymond  Railroad  Station,  August  13,  1883. 
At  IT  o'clock  today  a  telegram  was  received  at  Department 
Headquarters  ordering  me  to  report  to  the  president  of  the  retir- 
ing board,  and  I  immediately  packed  up  and  left  Fort  Stockton 
at  3  P.  M.,  and  drove  over  in  an  ambulance  to  this  station.  Col- 
onel H.  C.  King,  a  lawyer  from  Fort  Ringgold,  is  one  of  my 
traveling  companions. 


527 

San  Antonio,  Texas,  August  15,  1883. 

We  arrived  at  7  this  A.  M.  and  took  rooms  at  the  Maverick 
Hotel.  Met  Colonel  Van  Vliet  at  the  hotel  and  reported  to  Dr. 
Joseph  R.  Smith,  retiring  board,  at  n  A.  M. 

August  16,  1883. 

Appeared  before  the  board  at  the  post,  and  found  everyone 
ready  for  me  at  n  o'clock,  with  the  records  all  spread  out  on  the 
table,  and  I  was  asked  if  I  had  any  objections  to  any  of  its  mem- 
bers. I  told  them  I  had,  as  two  of  the  members,  Colonels  Sweitzer 
and  Hough,  had  been  on  the  court-martial  which  tried  and  found 
me  guilty  of  charges  that  they  knew  were  not  true  and  had  been 
fixed  up  at  the  instigation  of  Grierson  and  his  clique.  I  was  nat- 
urally opposed  to  their  remaining  as  members  of  a  board  which 
was  organized  to  go  through  the  form  of  getting  me  out  of  the 
regiment  if  possible,  but  I  was  finally  persuaded  by  Dr.  Smith  to 
allow  them  to  remain,  as  they  both  stated  under  oath  that  they 
were  not  prejudiced  in  the  least  against  me.  The  board  as  then 
constituted  consisted  of  Colonel  Sweitzer,  president;  Lieutenant- 
Colonel  Hough,  Sixteenth  Infantry,  and  Dr.  Joseph  R.  Smith  and 
Dr.  Middleton,  Surgeon ;  Major  Van  Vliet,  Tenth  Cavalry,  mem- 
bers. After  the  recorder  had  read  the  record  furnished  by  the  War 
Department,  I  objected  to  it  as  not  being  complete,  and  was 
granted  until  tomorrow  to  fix  up  one  as  it  should  be. 

I  met  quite  a  number  of  my  friends,  and  all  seemed  to  treat  me 
very  kindly. 

In  order  to  complete  the  record  in  my  case  I  furnished  a  com- 
plete statement  of  my  military  services. 

August  17,  1883. 

I  appeared  before  the  board  at  n  this  A.  M.  Although  I  had 
sat  up  until  12  o'clock  last  evening  with  Mr.  Fisk  and  a  few  friends, 
I  did  not  have  my  record  entirely  completed,  so  the  board  took  a 
recess  for  an  hour  to  let  me  finish  it,  and  Major  Russell  sent  me 
a  clerk  to  copy  it.  Colonel  Terrell,  Chief  Paymaster  of  the  De- 
partment, came  in  and  helped  me  sort  out  papers,  advising  me 
which  were  best  to  present.  After  my  statement  was  read,  I  pre- 
sented a  number  of  orders  and  letters  of  General  Hancock  and 
others  to  substantiate  the  facts  as  I  had  set  them  forth.  After  an 
hour  or  two,  I  was  examined  and  the  doors  were  closed.  I  then 
returned  to  the  hotel  and  went  out  on  some  real-estate  business. 


August  1 8,  1883. 

I  met  General  Augur  on  the  street,  and  he  invited  me  to  ride 
up  to  the  post  with  him.  We  had  quite  a  pleasant  chat,  and  he 
seemed  as  friendly  as  a  man  could  possibly  be.  Dr.  Smith  in- 
formed me  today  that  the  board  had  recommended  me  for  retire- 
ment for  disability  contracted  while  in  line  of  duty,  but  that  it 
would  be  a  good  while  before  my  case  would  be  reached,  as  it 
would  have  to  go  through  the  Department  Headquarters  and  on 
to  Washington  before  action  could  be  taken.  I  am  satisfied,  pro- 
vided I  am  allowed  to  await  orders  until  after  my  promotion  to 
Major.  It  will  take  place  then  in  the  next  few  weeks  unless  some 
underhanded  move  is  made  to  force  me  on  the  retired  list  before 
being  promoted. 

August  20,  1883. 

Mr.  Lock  finished  his  surveying  of  ninety-six  building  lots  and 
brought  in  a  bill,  which  I  promptly  paid.  It  was  only  $25,  the 
usual  rate  being  $10  per  lot,  so  that  I  have  no  reason  to  complain 
of  his  liberality  in  the  matter. 

August  21,  1883. 

Colonel  Hough  called  and  shook  hands  with  me  today.  He 
tried  to  make  me  believe  that  he  is  a  true  friend  of  mine,  and 
seemed  to  be  ashamed  of  his  past  brutal  actions  to  me  while  he 
was  in  command  of  Fort  McKavett.  I  shook  hands  and  treated 
him  very  politely. 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  August  25,  1883. 

Arrived  at  this  post  at  7  this  A.  M.,  after  driving  all  night. 
Found  my  family  about  as  well  as  I  could  expect  to.  All  were 
delighted  to  see  me  return  in  such  good  spirits. 

August  29,  1883. 

Knowing  that  I  have  been  recommended  for  retirement,  it  is 
not  likely  that  I  will  be  in  command  of  my  troop  much  longer, 
and  I  am  trying  to  dispose  of  my  property  and  preparing  to  take 
a  leave  of  absence  to  await  orders  of  retirement. 

The  following  letters  addressed  to  the  commanding  officer  of 
the  post  at  Fort  Stockton,  with  endorsements  thereon,  show  that 
Col.  James  F.  Wade,  my  commanding  officer,  had  wilfully  mis- 
represented me  to  the  War  Department : 


529 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  August  28,  1883. 
To  the  Post  Adjutant: 

Sir — In  order  that  I  may  leave  the  post  feeling  that  my  conduct 
as  an  officer  and  a  gentleman  has  been  above  reproach,  that  the 
administration  of  my  troop  and  post  duties  gave  entire  satisfac- 
tion, and  that  no  complaints  of  any  nature  whatever  have  been 
made  by  a  man  of  my  troop,  I  respectfully  request  that  the  Post 
Commander,  in  reply  to  this,  state  whether  he  can  bear  witness 
to  the  above  facts.  The  peculiar  situation  I  am  placed  in  makes  it 
my  duty  to  keep  a  record  of  facts  that  cannot  be  impeached. 
Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

G.  A.  ARMES, 

Capt.  Tenth  Cav. 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  August  31,  1883. 

Respectfully  returned.  I  have  been  in  command  of  this  post 
since  July  7,  1883.  During  the  time  of  my  command  the  conduct 
of  Captain  Armes  has  been  as  stated  within,  and  no  complaints  of 
any  nature  have  been  made  "against  him  by  the  men  under  his 
command. 

(Signed)         HORACE  JEWETT, 

Maj.  Sixteenth  Inf.,  Comdg. 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  August  31,  1883. 

Since  I  have  been  stationed  at  this  post  I  have  inspected  the 
troop  of  Captain  Armes  twice,  and  found  it  in  good  condition.  No 
fault  could  be  found  with  his  administration  in  any  particular.  No 
complaints  of  any  kind  have  been  made  by  the  men  or  anyone 
else.  In  drill  and  target  practice  they  have  been  as  good  as  the 
best. 

(Signed)         JNO.  B.  McDowELL, 

Second  Lieut.  Tenth  Cav.,  Post  Adjt. 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  September  I,  1883. 
I  have  served  at  this  post  with  Captain  Armes  since  July  6, 
1883,  and  during  this  time  his  conduct,  officially  and  socially,  has 
been,  so  far  as  I  have  observed,  entirely  correct. 

(Signed)         GEO.  H.  PALMER, 
First  Lieut.  Sixteenth  Inf.,  Comdg.  Co.  F. 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  September  2,  1883. 

I  have  known  Captain  Armes  over  fifteen  years,  and  have  served 
under  and  with  him  at  times,  and  believe  I  know  him  as  well  as 
any  officer  of  the  regiment.  I  never  knew  him  to  commit  an  un- 
gentlemanly  or  dishonorable  act,  and  his  record  for  duty  in  the 
field  and  as  an  Indian  fighter  is  equal  to  any. 

(Signed)         WM.  DAVIS,  JR., 
First  Lieut.  Tenth  Cav.,  Comdg.  Co.  L. 

34 


530 

Fort  Stockton,  Texas,  September  4,  1883. 

I  have  served  at  this  post  with  Captain  Armes  for  about  one 
year  and  a  half,  and  during  that  time  have  never  known  him  to  be 
guilty  of  any  action  which  could  be  termed  ungentlemanly.  Hav- 
ing had  no  connection  with  his  troop  while  he  was  present  with  it, 
I  cannot  make  any  criticism,  but  think  it  compared  favorably  with 
other  troops  of  the  regiment. 

(Signed)         P.  E.  TRIPPE, 
Second  Lieut.  Tenth  Cav.,  Comdg.  Troop  G. 

August  31,  1883. 

Major  Jewett  had  muster  and  inspection  at  8  A.  M.  He  has 
proven  himself  a  true  friend  of  mine  and  one  of  the  best  com- 
manding officers  I  have  had  for  some  time. 

On  the  Road  to  Haymond  Station,  Texas, 

September  12,  1883. 

I  had  the  trunks  and  packages  all  loaded  in  the  wagon  this 
morning,  and  started  them  in  advance.  At  3  P.  M.  Lucy,  my 
children  and  myself  got  in  the  ambulance  and  left  the  post,  after 
bidding  our  special  friends  good-bye. 

On  Train  to  San  Antonio,  September  13,  1883. 
I  had  to  leave  a  good  deal  of  my  baggage  back  at  the  station, 
not  being  able  to  get  it  on  the  train  today,  which  I  never  yet 
received. 

San  Antonio,  September  14,  1883. 

Reached  this  city  safely  at  7  this  A.  M.  and  selected  two  large 
rooms  at  the  Menger  Hotel.  After  breakfast  Generals  McClerry, 
Fisk,  Gordon  and  Berry  called  upon  us. 

September  17,  1883. 

General  Augur  notified  me  that  T  was  retired  on  the  I5th  and 
ordered  home. 

Washington,  D.  C,  September  17,  1883. 
Commanding  General,  Department  of  Texas, 

San  Antonio,  Texas: 

Capt.  George  A.  Armes,  Tenth  Cavalry,  is  retired  September 
15  and  ordered  to  his  home.  Please  notify  him. 

(Signed)         R.'  C.  DRUM, 

Adjutant-General. 


Official  copy  respectfully  furnished  Capt.  George  A.  Armes, 
U.  S.  A.  (retired). 

(Signed)         THOMAS  M.  VINCENT, 

Asst.  Adjutant-General. 
Headquarters  Department  of  Texas, 

September  17,  1883. 

1  immediately  sent  a  telegram  of  protest,  as  it  had  been  agreed 
that  I  should  have  a  six  months'  leave  until  after  my  promotion 
as  Major.  I  had  same  information  from  General  Drum  and  per- 
mission from  Secretary  of  War  to  visit  Mexico.  I  propose  to  go 
to  Washington  immediately. 

On  Sleeper  En  Route  to  St.  Louis,  September  18,  1883. 
I  called  on  General  Augur,  Dr.  Smith  and  Colonel  Terrell  last 
night  and  obtained  a  copy  of  my  retirement  order,  and  had  a  long 
talk  about  the  underhanded  arbitrary  act.  I  have  a  great  many 
friends  who  are  sympathizing  with  me  and  denouncing  the  offi- 
cials who  have  proved  so  traitorous.  After  bidding  my  friends 
good-bye,  I  secured  a  drawing-room  on  the  sleeper  and  left  San 
Antonio  at  7.40.  There  being  a  dining-car  next  to  mine,  we  are 
traveling  very  comfortably. 

St.  Louis,  Mo.,  September  20,  1883. 

WTe  arrived  here  this  A.M.  and  engaged  nice,  large  rooms  at 
the  Southern  Hotel,  one  of  the  finest  in  this  city,  and  the  children 
are  greatly  enjoying  themselves.  General  Glover  of  the  Globe 
Democrat  called  on  us  today ;  also  A.  W.  Gifford,  who  has  taken  a 
special  interest  in  my  case  and  called  with  me  on  several  promi- 
nent men,  among  them  Judge  Vailant  and  Mr.  Wright. 

Upon  my  return  to  the  hotel  I  met  Governor  Crittenden  and 
several  friends.  Took  Lucy  and  the  children  to  the  theater  this 
evening,  where  she  saw  Ed\vin  Booth  for  the  first  time. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  September  24,  1883. 

Called  on  General  Drum,  but  could  get  no  satisfaction.  Re- 
ceived my  mileage  from  Stockton.  Saw  General  Whittaker,  my 
agent,  and  this  evening  called  on  Mr.  Murray,  the  correspondent 
of  the  Globe  Democrat. 

Knowing  that  a  number  of  officers  who  had  b£en  ordered  on 
the  retired  list  had  been  furnished  transportation  for  their  horses 


532 

and  allowance  of  baggage,  I  made  my  application  accordingly, 
but  was  refused,  showing  the  prejudice  of  Mr.  Robert  Lincoln, 
who  had  unfortunately  been  made  Secretary  of  War. 

October  16,  1883. 

During  the  past  few  weeks  T  have  been  doing  everything  pos- 
sible to  get  the  order  of  retirement  revoked,  and  find  it  necessary 
to  appeal  to  Congress  next  session.  Called  on  General  Hazen 
this  afternoon,  who  went  with  me  to  see  President  Arthur.  The 
President  was  very  pleasant  and  agreeable  and  listened  to  my 
statement  very  attentively,  and  said  he  would  refer  the  matter  to 
the  Secretary  of  War  and  Judge-Advocate-General  and  give  the 
whole  matter  personal  attention  immediately.  He  seemed  to  joke 
about  the  newspaper  misstatements  and  acted  so  friendly  that 
General  Hazen  was  gratified  with  the  interview  as  well  as  myself. 
Before  leaving  I  made  formal  request  in  writing  that  the  order 
placing  me  on  the  retired  list  before  promotion  be  revoked,  which 
was  as  follows : 

Washington,  D.  C,  October  15,  1883. 
To  the  President  of  the  United  States, 

Washington,  D.  C. : 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  state  that  during  the  month  of  July 
past  my  health  was  such  that  I  applied  for  a  sick  leave.  Soon  after 
I  was  ordered  to  appear  before  a  retiring  board.  Before  appear- 
ing I  was  assured  that  General  Augur  would  approve  my  applica- 
tion without  regard  to  the  action  of  the  board,  and  I  was  confident 
that  I  would  attain  my  majority  within  a  short  time.  The  board 
recommended  my  retirement  for  disability  incident  to  the  service. 
One  month's  leave  was  granted,  and  my  request  for  five  months' 
extension  was  approved  bv  General  Augur.  I  had  just  availed 
myself  of  the  leave  when  I  received  a  telegram  announcing  my 
retirement  as  Captain.  I  have  since  applied  to  the  War  Depart- 
ment to  revoke  the  order  retiring  me  as  Captain,  and  to  allow  me 
to  await  orders  at  home  until  my  promotion.  Not  receiving  a 
favorable  reply,  I  appeal  to  yon  for  the  justice  the  circumstances 
of  my  case  will  warrant.  If  any  reason  should  be  given  you  in- 
ferring the  order  retiring  me  as  Captain  should  not  be  revoked  I 
respectfullv  request  that  the  Judge  Advocate  General  of  the  Army 
be  directed  to  examine  and  report  upon  the  legality  of  my  request. 
Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant. 

GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Capt.,U.  S.  A. 


533 
To  which  General  Drum  replied  as  follows : 

War  Department,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  November  9,  1883. 
Capt.  (Ico.  A.  Armes, 

U.  S.  A.  (retired), 

1405  F  St.  N.  W.,  Washington,  D.  C.: 

Sir — Referring  to  your  letter  of  the  I5th  ulto.,  addressed  to  the 
President,  requesting  that  the  order  placing  you  on  the  retired 
list  be  revoked,  and  that  you  be  permitted  to  await  orders  at  your 
home  until  promoted  to  the  rank  of  Major,  the  Secretary  of  War 
directs  me  to  say  that  he  is  not  aware  of  any  provision  of  law,  even 
if  it  were  considered  advisable  by  him,  to  have  you  restored  to  the 
active  list,  under  which  the  order  placing  you  on  the  retired  list 
could  now  be  revoked. 

On  the  subject  of  promotion,  you  are  referred  to  paragraph  36 
of  the  Regulations,  from  which  it  will  be  seen  that,  having  been 
found  physically  disabled  for  duty,  you  of  necessity  come  under 
the  excepting  provision  of  that  paragraph. 
Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

R.  C.  DRUM, 

Adjutant- General. 

And  the  following  is  my  reply  to  the  President : 

Washington,  D.  C.,  November  10,  1883. 
To  the  President  of  the  United  States, 

(Through  the  Adjutant-General  of  the  Army) : 

Sir—*    *    * 

I  respectfully  invite  attention  to  the  fact  that  several  officers 
have  been  recommended  for  retirement  on  account  of  disability, 
and  have  been  awaiting  a  vacancy  on  the  retired  list  for  months 
before  I  was  ordered  before  a  board,  and  the  fact  that  six  months' 
sick  leave  was  recommended  by  my  Department  Commander 
should  certainly  have  prevented  such  an  injustice  as  has  been  done 
by  placing  me  on  the  retired  list  first,  although  the  last  recom- 
mended. 

N.  B. — I  request  that  no  act  be  done  in  this  connection  that  may 
jeopardize  my  promotion,  and  if  any  such  has  been  done  that  it 
may  be  revoked. 

T  wrote  General  Drum  as  follows,  explaining  what  took  place 
in  my  interview  with  the  President  when  in  company  with  General 
Hazen : 


534 

Washington,  D.  C,  November  15,  1883. 
Gen.  R.  C.  Drum, 

Adjutant-General  of  the  Army,  Washington,  D.  C.: 
Sir — General  Hazen  and  I  called  on  the  President  October  16 
and  requested  the  revocation  of  the  order  retiring  me  as  Captain. 
The  President  at  first  objected  to  interfere  with  the  actions  of  the 
Secretary  of  War  in  the  matter,  but  after  a  short  discussion,  said 
if  any  suggestion  could  be  made  that,  would  warrant  him  to  act  he 
would  like  to  hear  one.  General  Hazen  suggested  that  the  Secre- 
tary of  War  be  directed  to  refer  my  application  to  the  Judge  Ad- 
vocate General  for  opinion  as  to  legality  of  my  request.  The  Pres- 
ident said  he  would  do  so,  and  took  my  letter,  and  I  now  respect- 
fully ask  you  to  let  me  see  or  have  a  copy  of  the  endorsements 
thereon. 

Respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

G.  A.  ARMES, 

Capt.,  U.  S.  A. 
The  above  is  exactly  stated  as  I  remember  it. 

(Signed)         W.  B.  HAZEN. 
November  6,  1883. 

After  an  early  breakfast  took  my  children  and  Lucy  in  the  car- 
riage to  Vienna,  where  I  met  Mr.  Bomon,  with  whom  I  used  to 
board  when  I  was  a  boy  going  to  school  in  Fairfax.  We  then 
drove  to  Fairfax  C.  H.  and  had  my  deed  recorded  for  the  Ander- 
son farm,  which  I  bought  from  Mr.  Biglow  some  time  ago,  after 
which  we  returned  via  Falls  Church. 

November  25,  1883. 

General  Swaim,  the  Judge- Advocate-General,  has  taken  quite 
an  interest  in  my  case,  and  has  proven  himself  a  true  friend  and 
fair-minded  man.  I  have  made  several  sales  lately,  and  am  doing 
well  in  the  real-estate  business. 

November  27,  1883. 

Gen.  J.  W.  Denver  has  taken  an  interest  in  my  case,  and  called 
with  me  last  night  on  General  Hancock.  I  have  a  deal  on  hand 
with  Colonel  Ingersoll  and  General  Swaim. 

December  13,  1883. 

Received  a  dispatch  from  Mr.  Firman  from  San  Francisco,  Cal., 
and  one  from  Father  Hobon,  who  is  in  Baltimore.  Saw  Judge 
Hancock  in  regard  to  silver  mines ;  also  Mr.  Ellis  and  Forney  in 
regard  to  claim. 

December  26,  1883. 

Leased  a  house,  No.  1216  Sixteenth  street,  and  moved  in  today, 
and  have  gone  to  housekeeping,  and  are  very  comfortably  fixed. 


CHAPTER  XXII. 

At  10  o'clock  January  I  reported  to  the  War  Department  in 
full  uniform,  marched  over  to  the  White  House  and  called  on  the 
President  and  paid  usual  calls  on  official  and  citizen  friends. 

During  the  past  year  1  have  been  largely  engaged  in  real-estate 
transactions,  in  addition  to  the  great  amount  of  time  consumed 
in  trying  to  get  justice  at  the  War  Department,  making  many 
friends  among  Senators  and  members  of  Congress,  who  took  an 
active  interest  in  my  behalf.  Senator  John  R.  McPherson  of  New 
Jersey  has  been  interested  with  me  in  making  several  large  deals. 
One  very  important  transaction  which  I  carried  through  was  the 
securing  of  an  order  from  the  War  Department  appointing  the 
board  of  ordnance  officers  to  examine  into  the  patent  of  Captain 
Powlett  for  the  Pneumatic  gun  carriage.  After  a  thorough  investi- 
gation into  the  merits  of  the  case,  the  board  recommended  that 
Si 0,000  be  appropriated  for  the  purpose  of  testing  it,  which  I  man- 
aged to  get  through  Congress,  and  the  contract  was  given  to  the 
South  Boston  Iron  Works  Co.  for  the  purpose  of  building  it.  Mr. 
Creecy  was  so  well  satisfied  with  my  services  that  on  November 
i  he  handed  me  $3000  worth  of  stock  for  securing  the  order  and 
procuring  the  adoption  of  the  patent. 

During  the  month  of  November  Gen.  D.  G.  Swaim  was  brought 
to  trial  before  a  court-martial,  of  which  General  Miles  was  presi- 
dent. General  Swaim  being  a  special  friend  of  mine,  I  took  quite 
an  interest  in  his  case. 

During  the  month  of  December  I  was  appointed  on  the  military 
committee  for  the  inauguration  of  Mr.  Cleveland,  and  took  a  very 
active  part  in  the  organization  of  a  cavalry  command,  which  made 
a  fine  display  in  the  parade.  Col.  William  G.  Moore  was  chairman 
of  the  committee,  and  we  called  a  meeting  at  the  National  Hotel, 
bringing  the  old  organization  of  the  President's  mounted  guard 
together.  General  Beverly  Robertson  was  elected  Captain 
and  William  Dickson  First  Lieutenant.  Afterwards  Robertson 
withdrew,  and  I  was  made  Captain  and  organized  a  company. 

Having  employed  Gen.  J.  W.  Denver  as  my  counsel  to  assist  me 
in  getting  justice  before  the  Senate  in  regard  to  my  arbitrary  re- 
tirement, he  sent  the  following  letter  to  the  military  committee : 


536 

Washington,  D.  C,  January  8,  1884. 
To  the  Chairman  Committee  on  Military  Affairs,  U.  S.  Senate: 

Sir — The  name  of  First  Lieut.  Chas.  L.  Cooper,  Tenth  Cavalry, 
has  been  sent  to  the  Senate  for  confirmation  as  Captain,  vice 
Armes,  retired. 

I  respectfully  request  that  no  action  be  taken  on  the  nomination 
for  promotion  of'said  Cooper  until  the  legality  of  the  retirement 
of  Captain  Armes  is  further  investigated  and  examined,  and  that 
I  be  permitted  to  appear  and  submit  reasons  why  Captain  Armes 
should  not  be  retired,  as  ordered  by  the  War  Department. 

Very  respectfully, 

J.  W.  DENVER, 
Attorney  for  G.  A.  Armes. 

After  getting  my  case  before  the  military  committee  of  the 
Senate,  I  was  denied  by  Mr.  Robert  T.  Lincoln,  the  Secretary  of 
War,  any  evidence  at  his  department  that  he  thought  would  be  of 
any  service  to  me.  I  reported  these  facts  to  Senator  Cockrell,  who 
requested  that  what  I  wished  be  sent  to  me,  which  was  done  upon 
his  application. 

In  order  to  strengthen  my  case  before  the  military  committee 
I  wrote  to  General  Mason,  Inspector-General  of  the  Department 
of  Texas,  and  received  the  following  reply,  which  confirms  the 
report  and  statements  made  by  the  officers  at  Fort  Stockton  that 
my  company  records  were  in  good  condition  : 

Respectfully  returned  to  Major  Armes.  So  far  as  I  can  recall 
without  reference  to  my  notes,  I  found  your  troop  in  good  condi- 
tion at  the  inspections  made  at  different  times.  I  do  not  think  that 
any  complaints  were  ever  made  to  me. 

Your  books  and  records  were  well  kept  and  complete. 

JOHN  MASON, 

Col.  Ninth  Inf. 

Feeling  that  a  re-examination  before  a  medical  board  would  be 
in  my  favor,  I  made  an  application  to  the  Adjutant-General  that 
I  be  ordered  before  one  for  this  purpose,  to  which  I  received  a  re- 
ply denying  my  request. 

During  the  month  of  March  I  got  Senator  Beck  of  Kentucky 
thoroughly  interested  in  my  case.  He  prepared  a  bill  which  was 
in  my  favor,  and  which,  if  it  had  passed,  would  have  been  of  great 
benefit  to  officers  who  are  forcibly  placed  on  the  retired  list  arbi- 
trarily, containing  a  clause  which  would  have  authorized  the 


537 

President  to  revoke  the  order  forcibly  retiring  me  without  just 
cause.  This  caused  the  opposition  of  Captain  Bacon  of  the  Ninth 
Cavalry,  who  had  been  a  Colonel  of  General  Sherman's  staff,  and 
he  applied  to  both  his  Senators,  Beck  and  Williams,  as  one  of  their 
constituents,  representing  to  them  it  would  be  of  great  damage  to 
him  and  prevent  his  promotion. 

Senator  Beck,  instead  of  introducing  the  bill  himself,  handed  it 
to  Senator  Williams,  who  introduced  it  without  noting  its  purport, 
and  upon  reading  an  attack  in  the  press,  I  immediately  sent  a 
letter  to  Senator  Williams  and  received  the  following  reply  : 

United  States  Senate, 

Washington,  D.  C,  March  8,  1884. 

My  Dear  Sir — In  making  the  motion  in  the  Senate  yesterday 
to  relieve  the  Committee  from  further  consideration  of  the  bill 
regulating  the  retirement  of  Army  officers,  nothing  was  further 
from  my  purpose  than  to  cast  any  injurious  imputations  upon 
anybody.  1  expressly  stated  that  the  bill  was  introduced  by  mis- 
take. The  first  intimation  that  I  had  of  such  a  bill  was  in  a  letter 
from  a  constituent  of  mine,  who  protested  against  it,  because  he 
said  it  would  delay  his  promotion.  I  then  looked  into  the  matter 
and  found  the  facts  as  stated  by 'me  in  making  the  motion.  I  am 
sure  that  no  sharp  practice  was  attempted  by  you  or  anyone  else 
in  this  matter,  and  do  not  think  the  facts  will  cast  any  injurious  re- 
flections upon  you  or  the  gentleman  who  prepared  the  bill.  It  was 
simply  a  mistake. 

Very  truly,  yours, 

JOHN  S.  WILLIAMS. 

After  the  receipt  of  Senator  Williams'  letter  I  called  on  Colonel 
Bacon  and  asked  him  how  it  was  that  he  was  interfering  and  try- 
ing to  prevent  me  from  obtaining  justice  at  the  hands  of  the  War 
Department,  when  he  remarked  that  "it  was  natural;  he  had  to 
look  out  for  No.  i,"  and  then  went  on  with  the  details,  explain- 
ing that  he  and  General  Sherman  called  on  the  Secretary  of  War 
and  requested  him  to  order  me  retired  in  order  to  make  a  vacancy 
for  his  promotion  to  a  majority,  as  he  did  not  wish  to  return  to  his 
company  as  Captain  after  having  served  so  long  as  a  full  Colonel 
on  the  staff  of  General  Sherman,  and  that  General  Sherman  was 
very  anxious  to  obtain  his  promotion,  remarking  to  the  Secretary 
of  War  that  in  case  I  should  be  promoted  out  of  the  Tenth  Cav- 
alry into  a  new  regiment  there  was  no  doubt  but  that  I  would 
stick,  and  under  the  circumstances  Captain  Bacon  might  have  to 


538 


serve  for  a  long  time  as  a  Captain  in  his  regiment  before  receiving 
his  promotion.  Upon  these  representations  Mr.  Lincoln  ordered 
my  immediate  retirement,  although  there  was  a  large  number  of 
officers  who  had  been  recommended  months  before  awaiting  a 
vacancy,  and  although  I  was  about  the  last  recommended  and 
the  leave  of  absence  approved  for  six  months  to  await  orders,  the 
leave  was  revoked  and  I  was  arbitrarily  placed  on  the  retired  list 
as  a  senior  Captain  of  cavalry  and  Major  Ball  retired,  promoting 
Captain  Bacon  to  a  majority,  the  place  I  was  legally  entitled  to. 
These  are  facts  that  can  be  substantiated  by  the  records  of  the  De- 
partment and  other  evidence. 

In  connection  with  my  attempt  to  obtain  justice  at  the  hands  of 
the  War  Department  General  Rosecrans  took  a  very  active  and 

friendly  interest  in  my  case 
and  introduced  the  following 
bill: 

A  Bill  to  Regulate  the  Re- 
tiring of  Army  Officers. 
i.  Be  it  enacted  by  the 
Senate  and  House  of  Rep- 
resentatives of  the  United 
States  of  America  in  Con- 
gress assembled,  That  from 
and  after  the  passage  of  this 
Act  all  officers  of  the  Army 
of  the  United  States  who 
have  been  or  may  hereafter 
be  recommended  for  retire- 
ment for  disability  by  a  re- 
tiring board  shall  be  placed 
upon  the  retired  list  in  the 
order  in  which  they  are  rec- 
ommended by  said  board  of 
retirement. 

Sec.  2.  That  the  Presi- 
dent be  and  hereby  is  au- 
thorized to  revoke  the  order,  September  fifteenth,  eighteen  hun- 
dred and  eighty-three,  by  which  Capt.  George  A.  Armes,  Tenth 
U.  S.  Cavalry,  was  retired,  and  that  said  Armes  shall  only  be  re- 
tired in  his  order,  agreeably  to  the  foregoing  provisions  of  this 
Act. 


GEN.  W.  S.  ROSECRANS. 


539 

In  self-defense  I  found  it  necessary  to  send  the  following  letter 
to  the  President  on  account  of  the  harsh,  unjust  and  arbitrary 
treatment  received  at  the  hands  of  Robert  Lincoln,  Secretary  of 
War: 

Washington,  D.  C,  March  13,  1884. 
To  the  President  of  the  United  States: 

Sir — I  respectfully  call  your  attention  to  the  action  of  your  Sec- 
retary of  \Var,  Robert  T.  Lincoln,  in  his  unjust  treatment  and  mis- 
representations of  myself.  He  has  said  to  me  that  he  told  you  the 
statement  1  made  to  you  in  relation  to  his  letter  to  me,  which  I 
alluded  to  in  the  interview  you  kindly  granted  me  last  Saturday, 
was  a  falsehood.  This  statement  of  his  is  not  in  accord  with  the 
facts. 

The  following  is  a  true  copy  of  an  extract  from  his  communica- 
tion to  me  on  the  subject  of  promotion:  "You  are  referred  to  par- 
agraph 36  of  the  Army  Regulations,  from  which  it  will  be  seen 
that,  having  been  found  physically  disabled  for  duty,  you  of  neces- 
sity come  under  the  excepting  provision  of  that  paragraph." 

Paragraph  36,  Army  Regulations,  referred  to,  reads  as  follows : 

"All  vacancies  in  established  regiments  and  corps  to  the  rank  of 
Colonel  shall  be  rilled  by  promotion  according  to  seniority,  except 
in  case  of  disability  or  other  incompetency." 

The  disability  referred  to  in  this  paragraph  refers  to  disability 
occasioned  through  the  commission  of  crimes  or  offenses.  Now, 
1  complain  that  if  that  was  one  of  the  grounds  upon  which  my 
hasty  retirement  was  made,  which  unjustly  deprived  me  of  the 
promotion  to  which  I  am  entitled,  1  have  never  improperly  inter- 
fered with  others,  but  as  an  officer  of  the  Army  and  a  citizen  of  the 
United  States  I  feel  it  my  duty  to  bring  to  public  notice  the  dis- 
honest actions  of  two  prominent  Army  officers  and  one  Cabinet 
officer,  holding  the  position  of  Secretary  of  War,  who  were  found 
guilty,  or,  in  effect,  confessed  the  truth  of  the  charges  I  made,  and 
the  three  went  out  of  office  in  disgrace.  Since  their  downfall  re- 
peated efforts  have  been  made  to  ruin  me,  if  possible,  and  I,  as 
well  as  my  family,  have  been  compelled  to  suffer  untold  wrongs 
at  the  instance  of  dishonest  persons  who  have  had  it  in  their  power 
to  do  so,  and  so  far  have  been  unable  to  get  any  redress. 

It  is  true  that  I  have  several  times  been  tried  before  courts-mar- 
tial and  found  guilty,  but  all  that  was  brought  about  by  conspira- 
cies and  persecutions  such  as  few  officers,  if  any,  ever  had  to  con- 
tend with,  and  the  charges  were  so  frivolous  that  under  other  cir-- 
cumstances  a  just  commanding  officer  would  have  cast  them  aside 
as  unworthy  of  notice.  No  charge  was  ever  made  against  me 
which  I  could  not  have  disproved  had  I  been  allowed  an  opportu- 
nity to  do  so,  but  this  was  not  permitted.  Every  possible  advan- 
tage was  taken  of  me,  first  by  giving  me  no  time  to  meet  the 
charges,  which  were  suddenly  changed,  and,  second,  by  excluding 


540 

my  witnesses  and  evidence.  The  conspiracy  against  me  fully  de- 
veloped itself  when  I  was  ordered  to  return  to  my  regiment  in 
1878.  When  the  telegram  announcing  this  was  handed  Col.  B.  H. 
Grierson,  1  am  told  by  an  officer  who  was  there  present  he  declared 
it  would  not  be  three  months  before  he  would  have  me  out  again, 
and  this  he  set  about  to  accomplish.  I  was  subjected  to  every  pos- 
sible annoyance,  and  charges  were  trumped  up  to  send  me  before 
courts-martial  or  before  boards,  and,  unfortunately  for  me,  he  and 
his  coadjutors  succeeded  in  poisoning  against  me  the  minds  of 
those  higher  in  authority. 

During  the  whole  time  of  my  service  in  the  Army  no  inspecting 
officer  ever  reported  me  as  deficient  in  the  control  or  administra- 
tion of  my  command,  and  the  fact  that  I  was  several  times  recom- 
mended for  brevet  for  gallantry  in  the  field,  and  mentioned  in  or- 
ders a  number  of  times,  shows  that  I  have  not  been  inefficient 
while  on  duty. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         G.  A.  ARMES. 

My  military  troubles  did  not  prevent  me  from  carrying  on  an 
energetic  and  profitable  business,  of  which  the  following  letters 
from  prominent  men  are  evidence  : 

The  Ebbitt  House, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  September  3,  1884. 
Maj.  Geo.  A.  Armes: 

Dear  Sir — I  will  be  glad  to  drive  with  you  this  afternoon  to  look 
at  some  houses.    I  have  an  idea  of  purchasing  a  residence  in  this 
city,  and  will  be  pleased  to  have  you  show  me  around. 
Your  obedient  servant, 

WM.  T.  HARNEY, 

Bvt.  Maj.-Gen.,  U.  S.  A. 

Washington,  D.  C,  June  14,  1884. 
Hon.  John  B.  Alley, 

Washington,  D.  C. : 

Dear  Sir — I  have  known  Maj.  George  A.  Armes  for  several 
years.  He  has  transacted  a  considerable  amount  of  business  for 
me,  and  has  always  done  it  promptly  and  well.  He  has  a  very 
large  acquaintance,  and  has  been  very  successful  in  making  sales. 
I  think  he  would  manage  your  business  promptly  and  correctly  if 
entrusted  in  his  care. 

Yours  respectfully, 

DAVID  L.  MORRISON. 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 

Washington,  D.  C,  January  i,  1885. 

I  commenced  the  first  of  the  year  by  putting  on  my  uniform, 
meeting  the  General  of  the  Army  at  the  War  Department  and 
marching  with  the  long  line  of  officers  who  had  assembled  there  in 
full-dress  uniform.  After  shaking  hands  with  President  Arthur 
and  a  large  number  of  friends,  many  of  whom  I  had  not  met  for 
over  twenty  years,  I  invited  Captain  Heiner  of  the  First  Infantry 
to  make  calls. 

January  17,  1885. 

Captain  Heiner  called  at  my  office  this  A.  M.  We  had  quite 
a  long  interview  with  the  Secretary  of  War  as  to  his  appointing  a 
board  to  look  into  the  merits  of  my  unjust  retirement  as  a  Captain. 
T  told  him  that  his  action  was  one  which  would  leave  a  stain  upon 
his  character  that  could  never  be  wiped  out.  I  also  told  him  I 
would  appeal  to  the  President,  and  left  him  in  disgust  and  con- 
tempt. 

January  19,  1885. 

Judge  Shellabarger  made  a  splendid  argument  in  defense  of 
General  Swaim  today.  I  called  at  the  War  Department  and  had  a 
long  discussion  with  General  Drum  about  the  Secretary  of  War, 
handing  him  a  letter  for  President  Arthur  in  regard  to  the  injus- 
tice which  Secretary  Lincoln  has  inflicted  upon  myself  and  family. 

January  21,  1885. 

General  Grosvenor  made  a  very  able  argument  in  the  defense 
of  General  Swaim  today  which  ought  to  convince  anyone  that 
General  Swaim  would  be  cleared. 

January  27,  1885. 

Saw  General  Miles  today  a  few  minutes.  He  is  still  engaged  on 
General  Swaim's  court.  Ex-Governor  Stanton  of  Kansas  called 
to  see  me  about  his  thirty  thousand  acres. 

January  31,  1885. 

Called  on  Mrs.  Governor  Swan  with  a  letter  of  introduction 
from  Governor  Price.  Had  a  very  pleasant  conversation  in  regard 
to  real  estate,  of  which  she  is  a  large  owner. 


542 

After  failing  to  obtain  justice  from  the  Secretary  of  War,  who 
seemed  fully  controlled  by  my  enemies,  composed  of  a  clique  in 
the  War  Departmen  who  are  bent  on  keeping  me  from  receiving 
justice,  I  found  it  necessary  to  send  a  letter  to  the  President  of  the 
United  States,  which  Mr.  Lincoln  declined  to  let  him  see,  sending 
me  a  letter  dated  January  31  as  his  excuse.  The  reader  can  easily 
see  prejudice  cropping  out.  Although  an  officer  of  the  Army,  I 
have  found  it  necessary  to  run  the  risk  of  being  court-martialed 
in  order  to  bring  out  the  facts  and  expose  those  in  authority.  But 
in  spite  of  my  making  myself  liable,  it  is  impossible  to  get  them 
to  order  a  court  to  investigate  my  case  for  fear  of  their  own 
exposure. 

February  2,  1885. 

Upon  arriving  at  mv  office  this  A.  M.  I  found  the  names  of  Col- 
onel Woodbury  and  his  son  on  my  desk.  They  returned  at  I  P. 
M.,  when  I  invited  them  to  drive  around  the  city  and  to  my  house 
to  dine.  They  are  now  my  guests. 

February  3,  1885. 

Last  evening  Colonel  Woodbury  and  I  called  on  Senator  Sher- 
man, Mr.  Blaine,  Mr.  Edmonds  and  General  Hazen. 

February  4,  1885. 

This  A.  M.  Colonel  Woodbury,  his  son  Charlie  and  myself  went 
to  Manassas  Station,  Virginia.  The  Colonel  hired  a  team  and  we 
drove  over  the  ground  of  Bull  Run,  where  he  lost  one  of  his  arms 
in  1861.  We  picked  up  several  cannon-balls  near  the  place  where 
his  arm  was  shot  off  and  brought  them  back  as  mementoes. 

February  17,  1885. 

Met  Captain  Home  of  England  at  the  National  Hotel  last  even- 
ing. Spent  an  hour  with  Senator  McPherson  in  trying  to  per- 
suade him  to  purchase  the  Jackson  House.  Saw  General  Miles  in 
relation  to  Mr.  Hill's  offer  of  $30,000  for  his  land.  Had  quite  a 
talk  with  Senator  Voorhees  of  Indiana,  who  is  one  of  my  sup- 
porters. 

February  24,  1885. 

I  sent  a  letter  to  the  President  enclosing  copy  of  letter  of  Jan- 
uary 19,  which  the  Secretary  of  War  refused  to  deliver. 


543 

March  i,  1885. 

I  met  a  large  number  of  friends  at  the  Ebbitt  House  and  Wil- 
lard's  last  evening.  Kept  open  house  for  my  friends  who  are  in- 
terested with  me  in  the  mounted  organization  which  is  to  turn  out 
on  the  4th. 

March  4,  1885. 

Met  General  Batchelder  and  Major  Vanderburg,  who  had 
charge  of  receiving  the  troops.  A  number  of  my  mounted  men 
came  in  this  A.  M.  Mr.  Randolph,  clerk  of  the  War  Department, 
gave  me  a  few  blank  tickets  to  admit  friends  to  the  Department. 
T  invited  Mr.  Jackson  and  his  family,  the  Misses  Drew  and  chil- 
dren, obtaining  a  very  nice  place  where  they  could  witness  the 
parade.  After  my  command  had  passed  in  review  I  joined  my 
friends  in  the  War  Department  and  had  a  misunderstanding  with 
Colonel  Barr,  who  informed  me  that  he  was  acting  Secretary  of 
War  in  the  absence  of  Secretary  Lincoln.  He  took  possession  of 
the  room  where  my  friends  were  and  tried  to  prevent  me  from 
going  in,  but  I  soon  let  him  understand  I  had  authority  to  be 
there.  The  Grenadier  Band  serenaded  General  Hazen  and  then 
came  around  to  my  house  and  serenaded  my  family  and  friends. 

March  9,  1885. 

Called  on  the  Secretary  of  Navy,  Mr.  Whitney,  at  9  A.  M.,  who 
made  an  appointment  to  look  at  Stewart's  Castle  this  afternoon, 
which  I  offered  to  rent  him  for  $13,000  a  year. 

March  16,  1885. 

Took  Secretary  and  Mrs.  Manning  to  see  the  Weston  house, 
which  they  seemed  to  like  better  than  any  they  have  examined. 
Secretary  of  War  Endicott  requested  me  to  find  a  good  house  for 
him  today. 

March  19,  1885. 

Senator  Edmunds  gave  me  his  house  to  sell  today  at  $30,000. 
Admiral  Jewett  gave  me  a  card  of  introduction  to  Mr.  W.  H. 
Vanderbilt,  who  is  visiting  the  city  for  a  few  days.  Took  Sec- 
retary Manning  and  his  wife  to  the  Weston  house  at  5  o'clock 
P.  M.,  and  on  my  return  to  the  Arlington  Senator  Stanford's  car- 
riage smashed  into  mine ;  no  one  hurt. 


544 

March  17,  1885. 

Informed  Secretary  Manning  today  that  if  he  did  not  imme- 
diately decide  on  the  Weston  house  1  would  rent  it  to  someone 
else.  He  said  he  could  not  make  up  his  mind  what  house  to 
choose  at  present,  so  I  rented  it  to  Congressman  Gay  of 
Louisiana. 

April  u,  1885. 

Called  on  Gen.  M.  C.  Clark  last  evening,  who  was  very  anxious 
to  have  Judge  Swett  purchase  his  house.  I  then  called  on  Senator 
Payne  of  Ohio,  who  has  just  leased  Justice  Wood's  house.  Met 
Captain  King  at  the  Arlington  last  evening ;  also  Judge  Sunder- 
land,  who  has  a  large  real-estate  interest  in  this  city,  and  has 
placed  a  good  deal  of  his  property  in  my  hands  for  sale. 

April  15,  1885. 

Sold  John  Magruder  the  Stewart  house  on  Sixteenth  street  this 
afternoon  for  $7000  cash. 

April  1 6,  1885. 

Senator  Windom  gave  me  his  house  to  sell  today ;  also  had 
quite  a  talk  with  Senator  Don  Cameron,  who  also  gave  me  his 
house  to  sell  for  $100,000.  I  took  Mr.  D.  P.  Morgan  and  his  wife 
through  the  Cameron  house  at  4  P.  M. 

April  1 8,  1885. 

Called  on  Mrs.  Elaine  last  evening  in  regard  to  her  house, 
which  she  wishes  to  sell  in  case  Mr.  Leiter  will  give  up  his  lease, 
which  does  not  expire  for  three  years.  Telegraphed  Mr.  Morgan's 
offer  of  $80,000  to  Senator  Cameron.  Took  Vice-President  Hen- 
dricks  and  his  wife  through  Mr.  Clark's  house  this  afternoon. 

April  21,  1885. 

Took  Mr.  Morgan  through  the  Cameron  house  again,  and  he 
raised  his  offer  to  $90,000  cash,  without  the  furniture.  Secre- 
tary Whitney  decided  that  he  would  not  pay  over  $7000  a  year 
for  the  Stewart  Castle  and  take  a  lease  for  four  years,  which  I 
submitted  to  Senator  Stewart. 

April  22,  1885. 

Mrs.  Stewart  appeared  to  be  greatly  vexed  at  the  offer  of 
$7000,  but  decided  she  would  let  it  go  for  nothing  less  than  $8000. 
The  Secretary  would  not  pay  more  than  $7000,  and  failed  to  close 
the  transaction. 


545 

April  27,  1885. 

Called  on  Mr.  Morgan  today  and  informed  him  that  Mr.  Cam- 
eron declined  the  offer  of  $90,000.  I  advised  him  to  split  the  dif- 
ference, making  it  $95,000,  when  he  said  he  would  look  at  another 
house.  I  then  took  him  and  his  wife  through  General  Hazen's  at 
2  P.  M. 

May  i,  1885. 

Judge  Merrick  gave  me  his  house  to  sell  for  $100,000.  He 
gave  me  a  full  description  of  it,  and  was  very  anxious  I  should 
show  it  to  Mr.  Morgan.  Took  General  Black  and  his  wife  and 
little  daughter  through  several  houses  today.  Mr.  Morgan  of- 
fered me  $60,000  for  the  Ray  house,  which  was  declined;  also 
saw  Mr.  Pollock,  who  wanted  me  to  sell  his  house  for  $120,000. 
I  called  with  him  to  see  Mr.  Morgan,  but  the  house  did  not  appear 
to  suit  him  as  well  as  the  Cameron  house. 

May  4,  1885. 

Mr.  Morgan  went  with  me  to  see  the  Pollock  house  again. 
Took  Governor  Crawford  to  see  the  General  Clark  house. 

The  following  is  an  extract  from  a  letter  of  General  Ingalls 
showing  the  confidence  that  he  placed  in  me  as  one  of  his  business 
and  social  friends : 

New  York,  May  18,  1885. 
Dear  Major: 

I  will  communicate  with  Mr.  Holliday  as  soon  as  mail  will  allow. 
Were  the  property  mine  I  should  be  glad  to  have  the  Secretary's 
family  occupy  the  house,  but  Mr.  H.  is  peculiar.  When  answer  is 
received  T  will  write  you;  meantime  I  would  suggest  you  look 
elsewhere. 

Yours,  hastily, 

(Signed)        RUFUS  INGALLS. 

May  12,  1885. 

Rented  General  Black  one  of  the  Shedd  houses  on  Rhode  Is- 
land avenue.  Mr.  Morgan  has  closed  the  trade  with  Senator 
Cameron  at  $95,000  cash. 

May  22,  1885. 

Mr.  Washington  McLean  called  to  see  me  today  and  told  me 
that  he  wanted  to  purchase  No.  4  Lafayette  Square  for  his  son 
John.  Took  Postmaster  Dalton  and  Vice-President  Hendricks 
driving  this  afternoon.  Met  Mr.  John  R.  McLean  today,  who 
made  an  offer  for  the  Jeffreys  house.  Received  a  letter  from  Hon. 
J.  Kasson  making  an  offer  of  $22,000  cash  for  the  Alley  house. 
Mr.  Jeffreys  declined  Mr.  McLean's  offer. 

35 


546 

May  27,  1885. 

Spent  last  evening  with  General  Ingalls,  who  has  given  me  the 
Holliday  property  to  sell.  Saw  Mr.  McLean  and  General  West, 
but  failed  to  close  the  transaction. 

May  29,  1885. 

Senator  Pugh  made  an  offer  for  the  Riggs  lots.  Senator  Dolph 
of  Oregon  made  me  a  written  offer  today  for  the  Clark  house. 
Took  General  Morey  out  to  look  at  the  Nineteenth  street  houses, 
for  which  he  wishes  to  exchange  some  building  lots. 

June  i,  1885. 

Went  out  with  Senator  Pitt  Kellogg  and  Mr.  Morey  today,  and 
have  quite  a  large  transaction  on  hand.  Mr.  Hunt  of  Louisiana 
made  me  an  offer  of  $28,000  cash  for  the  Clark  house,  which  Mr. 
Clark  declined. 

June  n,  1885. 

Capt.  Edward  Dougherty,  who  made  himself  so  famous  in  the 
capture  of  Booth,  took  a  drive  with  me  yesterday.  Closed  the 
transaction  with  Mr.  McLean  and  General  West. 


June  12,  1885. 
Dr.  Loring  and  Dr.  Radcliff 
came  together  in  regard  to  the 
exchange  of  the  K  and  F  street 
houses,  involving  between 
$70,000  and  $80,000. 

Monday,  June  15,  1885. 
Mr.  Blankman  called  at  my 
office  today  and  offered  $50,000 
cash  for  the  Frisby  square. 

June  16,  1885. 

Called  oil  the  Mexican  min- 
ister after  breakfast  and  went 
out  looking  at  several  houses 
with  him.  He  was  very  much 
pleased  with  the  Lindsey 
house,  corner  Thirteenth  and 
K  streets,  making  an  offer  for  it. 


547 

June  28,  1885. 

I  took  the  Secretary  of  the  Navy,  Mr.  Whitney,  driving  on  the 
Rock  Creek  road  this  afternoon  to  look  at  property.  He  greatly 
enjoyed  the  drive,  and  is  anxious  to  lease  a  house  in  the  suburbs. 

June  29,  1885. 

Mr.  Blankman  paid  me  seventy-five  dollars  to  bind  the  bargain 
for  the  Sixteenth  and  T  streets  lots. 

July  I,  1885. 

Took  Secretary  Whitney  through  ex-Secretary  Robeson's 
house  today. 

July  2,  1885. 

Wrote  a  long  letter  to  Secretary  Robeson  in  regard  to  exchang- 
ing his  house  with  Mr.  Washington  McLean  for  property  at  New- 
port News.  Made  quite  a  large  transaction  today  with  Mr.  Blank- 
man and  Samuel  Maddox. 

Hygeia  Hotel,  Old  Point  Comfort,  Va. 

Mr.  McLean  has  a  large  interest  at  Newport  News,  and  I  am 
investigating  and  examining  his  property. 

July  10,  1885. 

Called  on  Secretary  Whitney  today  and  closed  the  transaction 
for  Mr.  Means'  place.  Judge  Dean  authorized  me  to  sell  his 
property  on  the  hill  for  $100,000. 

July  n,  1885. 

Mr.  Means  finally  accepted  the  offer  of  Mr.  Whitney  of  $30,000 
cash  for  one  hundred  acres.  Secretary  Whitney  paid  me  $500 
down  to  bind  the  bargain,  and  I  gave  him  a  receipt  on  account 
until  the  title  is  examined. 

On  the  Train  to  Cape  May,  July  25,  1885. 

Before  leaving  Washington  I  called  on  Secretary  Whitney  with 
abstract  of  title  and  deed,  accompanied  by  Mr.  Barnard  (now 
Judge  Barnard),  Mr.  Means'  lawyer.  Mr.  Wliitney  counted  out 
$29,500  in  cash,  handing  it  over  with  the  deed,  which  he  requested 
me  to  have  recorded.  After  packing  up  and  settling  matters  I 
took  the  excursion  train  at  10  o'clock  this  P.  M. 

New  York  City,  July  25,  1885. 

Had  quite  a  long  talk  today  with  Mr.  C.  P.  Huntingdon  and 
Col.  William  Brown.  The  latter  is  very  anxious  for  me  to  sell  his 
Ogle  Tayloe  property  in  Washington.  Called  on  Mr.  Weston, 
also  quite  a  number  of  friends  in  Brooklyn. 


548 


Burlington,  Vt.,  August  21,  1885. 

I  have  had  a  very  pleasant  visit  with  a  number  of  my  friends 
and  relatives  in  Massachusetts  and  New  York.  I  am  now  the. 
guest  of  Governor  Woodbury  and  family,  who  are  entertaining 
us  by  driving  through  the  country,  showing  us  everything  to  be 
seen  around  Burlington.  The  Governor  drove  us  to  Dr.  Webb's 
place,  Mr.  Vanderbilt's  son-in-law,  who  has  one  of  the  most  at- 
tractive country  seats  in  the  United  States. 


Saratoga  Springs, 

August  22,  1885. 
Governor  Woodbury  had 
quite  a  party  at  his  house  last 
evening.  We  had  music  and 
dancing.  Cecily  took  quite  an 
active  part  by  singing  and  play- 
ing several  pieces,  and  she 
greatly  distinguished  herself. 


JOHN  VAN  DYKE. 


Stamford,  N.  Y., 

August  26,  1885. 
After  seeing  everything  pos- 
sible at  Saratoga,  we  came  over 
the  Adirondack  Mountains,  and 
are  now  stopping  with  our 
cousins,  the  Vandykes,  who 
have  taken  us  driving  since  our 
arrival  over  the  mountains, 
showing  us  the  grand  sights  to 
be  seen. 


September  22,  1885. 

Spent  last  evening  with  Judge  Carter,  who  has  authorized  me 
to  sell  his  house  for  $30,000. 

October  29,  1885. 

Mr.  Levi  P.  Morton  has  authorized  me  to  try  and  purchase  the 
whole  block  on  H  street  between  Vermont  avenue,  Fifteenth  and 


549 


MBS.  VAN  DYKK. 


I  streets,  and  I  have  submitted 
an  offer  to  Judge  Carter  today 
for  his  house.  The  prospects 
are  very  favorable  of  my  carry- 
ing this  large  transaction 
through.  I  have  secured  an 
option  on  every  lot  in  the  block 
and  submitted  the  prices  to 
Mr.  Morton,  who  does  not  of- 
fer what  is  asked.  Under  the 
circumstances  there  will  be  de- 
lay before  we  can  secure  the 
property. 

November  4,  1885. 
Took  Mr.  and  Mrs.  McCrarey 
and  Mrs.  Justice  Field  through 
the  McPherson  house  today. 
The  Senator  wants  $80,000  for 
it,  and  before  leaving  Mr.  Mc- 
Crarey offered  him  $70,000 
cash. 


November  9,  1885. 

Senator  McPherson,  with  Mr.  and  Mrs.  McCarey,  went  through 
the  house  again.  He  advanced  his  offer  to  $75,000  cash,  but  the 
Senator  declined  and  went  back  to  New  Jersey. 

November  12,  1885. 

Mr.  McCrarey  made  his  final  offer  of  $76,000,  which  I  tele- 
graphed Senator  McPherson,  but  he  declined.  I  then  took  Mr. 
McCrarey  to  see  Colonel  Ingersoll's  house  on  K  street,  which  I 
offered  for  $50,000,  with  horses  and  carriages.  He  was  very  much 
pleased  with  the  house,  and  not  needing  horses  and  carriages, 
made  an  offer  of  $45,000  cash,  which  I  telegraphed  to  Colonel 
Tngersoll,  and  he  accepted. 

Washington,  D.  C,  November  25,  1885. 
Gen.  M.  A.  Reno: 

Dear  Sir — Having  been  informed  that  you  were  a  member  of 
the  court  which  tried  Captain  Lauffer  some  years  ago  in  New 


550 

Mexico,  I  desire  to  know  whether  Maj.  Lewis  Merrill  was  the 
Judge-Advocate,  and  the  particulars  as  to  how  he  conducted  the 
case  and  any  facts  as  to  his  character  and  reputation  as  an  officer 
and  gentleman. 

Yours  truly, 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES. 

Washington,  D.  C,  November  25,  1885. 
Maj.  G.  A.  Armes:  * 

Dear  Sir — I  was  a  member  of  the  court-martial  in  Santa  Fe,  N. 
M.,  and  of  which  Maj.  Lewis  Merrill,  Seventh  Cavalry,  was  Judge- 
Advocate,  and  which  tried  Captain  Lauffer,  A.  Q.  M.,  on  charges 
preferred  at  the  headquarters,  Department  of  Missouri.  During 
the  session  of  the  court  I  called  its  attention  to  the  fact  that  the 
prosecution  was  not  being  prosecuted  with  energy,  and  that  doc- 
umentary evidence  in  the  case  was  suppressed  by  Major  Merrill, 
Judge-Advocate.  Being  unable  at  the  time  to  substantiate  my 
charges,  no  action  was  taken  by  the  court.  I  afterwards,  and 
when  too  late  for  action,  was  informed  that  Captain  Lauffer  had 
paid  to  Merrill  several  hundred  dollars  to  secure  his  acquittal. 
This  I  could  have  proven  by  documentary  and  parole  evidence. 
Major  Merrill  was  never  a  gentleman,  and  is  a  notorious  coward 
and  shirk. 

Hoping  that  my  letter  conveys  to  you  the  desired  information, 
I  am,  etc., 

(Signed)         M.  A.  RENO, 
Late  Maj.  Seventh  Cav. 

November  24,  1885. 

Mr.  Morton  came  over  last  evening  with  Justice  Carter  and 
closed  the  transaction  for  his  house  for  $25,000,  allowing  him  a 
free  rental  of  it  for  one  year  before  taking  possession. 

December  23,  1885. 

Met  General  Strong  last  evening,  who  went  over  my  long  list 
of  property.  Mr.  Moses  gave  me  28,000  feet  of  ground  to  sell 
today  at  $30,000. 

December  29,  1885. 

Had  quite  an  interview  with  Dr.  Vanreypin  (now  Surgeon- 
General  of  the  Navy)  last  evening  about  a  lot  next  door  to  him. 
Mr.  Post  of  Wyoming  Territory  wishes  to  purchase.  Congress- 
man Post  is  a  very  popular  gentleman,  and  owns  one  of  the  largest 
ranches  and  stock  farms  in  Wyoming. 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 

January  I,  1886. 

I  reported  at  the  War  Department  and  marched  with  the  rest  of 
the  Army  officers  in  full-dress  uniform  to  the  President's  house, 
General  Sheridan  leading.  We  remained  in  the  East  Room  after 
shaking  hands  with  the  President,  meeting  many  friends  whom  I 
had  not  seen  for  over  twenty  years. 

Had  a  very  pleasant  interview  with  President  Cleveland  this 
afternoon. 

January  8,  1886. 

Mr.  William  Walter  Phelps  authorized  me  today  to  sell  his 
square  near  Dupont  Circle  for  $125,000.  Called-  on  Attorney- 
General  Garland  and  Colonel  Lament  in  relation  to  Major 
Merrill. 

January  23,  1886. 

Closed  the  sale  of  Sixteenth  and  L  streets  lot  to  Gen.  Henry 
Strong.  He  will  remain  in  Washington  and  build,  instead  of 
going  to  Florida  this  winter. 

January  25,  1886. 

Met  General  Strong  at  9  o'clock  A.  M.  at  Mr.  Warder's  office, 
who  ordered  the  deed  made  out  for  L  street  lot. 

February  9,  1886. 

Met  Colonel  Carpenter  at  the  Ebbitt  last  evening,  whom  I  had 
not  seen  for  fifteen  years.  He  pretended  to  be  a  very  true  friend, 
and  seemed  glad  to  see  me.  General  Hancock  died  at  2.50  this 
P.  M.  His  death  was  quite  a  sudden  shock  to  me.  I  had  parted 
from  him  at  Wormley's  Hotel  a  few  evenings  since.  I  shall  not 
forget  the  circumstances  of  his  coming  into  the  hotel  with  the 
blood  running  down  his  neck.  I  pulled  his  silk  handkerchief  out 
of  his  coat  pocket  and  tied  it  around  his  neck  to  keep  the  blood 
from  running  down  his  shirt,  when  he  remarked,  "Oh,  Mr.  Armes, 
that  is  nothing;  it  is  just  a  little  lancing  of  a  carbuncle."  While 
walking  with  him  to  the  carriage  to  bid  him  good-bye  I  suggested 
that  he  be  very  careful  and  not  catch  cold,  when  some  gentleman 
friend  who  was  with  him  remarked  that  the  General  was  too  old 
a  soldier  to  pay  any  attention  to  a  little  scratch  of  that  kind.  It 
turned  out  very  seriously,  as  he  caught  cold,  from  which  he  died. 


552 


HANCOCK'S  CARD. 

The  following  is  from  my  friend,  the  celebrated  and  famous 
engineer,  Capt.  L.  T.  Eads : 

Washington,  D.  C,  February  10,  1886. 
A.  E.  Touzalin,  Esq., 

President  C,  B.  &  N.  Ry. : 

Dear  Sir— This  will  introduce  to  you  Maj.  Geo.  A.  Armes  of 
this  city,  who  wishes  to  see  you  in  reference  to  introducing  an  im- 
proved stock  car  on  your  road. 

Yours  truly, 

(Signed)         L.  T.  EADS. 

(From  Washington  Star,  February  16,  1886.) 

NOMINATIONS  WITHDRAWN. 
The   Army   Promotions   Owing  to   the    Retirement   of   Colonel 

Hatch. 

The  following  Army  nominations,  made  on  the  8th  inst.,  have 
been  withdrawn  by  the  President:  Lieut. -Col.  Nelson  B.  Sweitzer 
to  be  Colonel:  Maj.  Lewis  Merrill  to  be  Lieutenant-Colonel; 
Capt.  Edward  J.  Spaulding  to  be  Major;  First  Lieut.  Colon  Auhur 
to  be  Captain,  and  Second  Lieut.  Alonzo  L.  O'Brien  to  be  First 
Lieutenant.  The  action  of  the  President  in  withdrawing  the  nom- 
inations, of  Army  officers  for  promotion,  owing  to  the  retirement 
of  Colonel  Hatch,  Eighth  Cavalry,  practically  settles  a  very  im- 
portant question  in  military  promotions.  The  President  in  effect 
maintains  that  an  officer  who  has  been  found  incapacitated  for 
active  service,  though  not  yet  retired,  is  not  competent  to  fill  a 
higher  position  than  the  one  for  which  the  question  hinged,  which 
was  that,  of ,  Major  Lewis  Merrill  of  the  Seventh  Cavalry,  to  be 
Lieutenant-Colonel  of  the  Eighth  Cavalry,  to  succeed  Lieut. -Col. 


553 

N.  B.  Sweitzer,  the  immediate  successor  of  Colonel  Hatch.  Had 
Major  Merrill  been  promoted  he  would  soon  have  been  retired, 
with  the  increased  rank  and  pay  of  a  Lieutenant-Colonel.  As  the 
case  now  stands,  he  will  be  retired  as  a  Major,  and  the  next  Major 
below  him,  Maj.  John  K.  Mizner,  Fourth. Cavalry,  will  receive  the 
promotion. 

The  following  is  a  portion  of  the  correspondence  in  relation  to 
purchasing  a  house  for  Mrs.  General  Hancock.  Having  been  a 
member  of  Major-General  Hancock's  staff,  I  drew  up  a  petition 
and  called  on  Mr.  W.  W.  Corcoran,  one  of  the  leading  citizens, 
requesting  a  subscription  in  order  to  purchase  a  house  in  this 
city,  knowing  that  he  was  a  great  friend  of  the  General's.  He 
stated  that  he  had  just  sent  $2000  to  New  York  in  order  to  pur- 
chase a  house  wherever  the  committee  might  select,  but  if  I  could 
induce  Mrs.  Hancock  to  make  this  her  home  he  would  head  the 
list  with  $3000,  and  that  I  would  be  able  to  have  the  other  $2000  he 
had  subscribed  already  added  to  it.  Hereupon  he  immediately 
signed  the  petition  and  put  down  the  amount  of  his  subscription 
as  $3000.  I  then  called  on  Mr.  B.  H.  Warder,  a  substantial  citi- 
zen, who  subscribed  $5000.  Mr.  H.  G.  Dulaney  of  Virginia,  a 
very  liberal  and  generous  young  gentleman,  subscribed  $2500, 
and  Senator  Fair  $3000.  Within  ten  days  after  starting  the  list 
I  had  $45,700  subscribed. 

30  East  Sixty-third  St.,  New  York  City,  March  12,  1886. 
Mr.  G.  A.  Armes, 

Washington,  D.  C: 

Dear  Sir — I  have  yours  of  yesterday.  I  do  not  know  that  I  can 
add  anything  to  what  I  stated  in  my  last  letter  concerning  Mrs. 
Hancock's  future.  It  is  a  matter  in  which  I  have  no  authority  to 
speak,  and,  in  fact,  no  information  to  speak  from. 

I  know  of  no  way  in  which  the  contribution  made  by  Mr.  Cor- 
coran could  be.  withdrawn  from  the  fund  of  which  it  has  become  a 
part  and  which  is  in  the  custody  of  the  treasurer. 

Referring  you  to  my  last  letter  for  points  not  touched  in  this, 
I  am,  yours  truly, 

(Signed)        JAMES  B.  FRY. 

March  2,  1886. 

Had  a  large  meeting  of  the  Shellabarger  Stock  Car  Co.  last 
evening  at  my  office. 


554 

March  5,  1886. 

Closed  a  sale  with  Mr.  Roesselle  of  the  Arlington  for  Sixteenth 
street  lot  for  $7150. 

March  18,  1886. 

Called  on  Father  Dulan  last  evening,  who  agreed  to  give  me  a 
commission  provided  I  could  sell  his  villa  on  the  Tennallytown 
road,  which  is  offered  for  $25,000.  Met  Senator  Sabin  at  the  Hol- 
iday House  at  10  o'clock  this  A.  M.  Senator  Bowen  introduced 
a  bill  for  me  today  in  regard  to  my  cattle  car. 

March  19,  1886. 

Senator  McPherson  authorized  me  to  put  his  name  down  for 
$5000  to  Hancock  fund ;  also  Mr.  Gait  for  $500  and  Senator  Sabin 
for  $1000.  I  lunched  with  the  latter  today. 

March  30,  1886. 

Called  last  evening  on  General  Cutchen,  Stilson  I  Intchins,  Sen- 
ator Fair  and  Judge  Swett,  who  subscribed  $1000  each.  General 
Davies  subscribed  another  $1000  for  Mrs.  Hancock's  house,  and 
Mr.  French  of  New  York  $500.  He  talks  some  of  purchasing  a 
residence  here. 

March  31,  1886. 

Colonel  Bugher,  Hon.  Washington  McLean's  son-in-law, 
came  to  my  office  today  to  explain  his  reasons  for  not  wishing  to 
purchase  property  or  have  anything  further  to  do  with  Mr.  B.  H. 
Warner,  requesting  me  to  show  him  a  house  he  could  purchase 
for  from  $20,000  to  $30,000.  I  spent  most  of  the  afternoon  show- 
ing him  property. 

April  4,  1886. 

Called  on  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Bispham  and  Senator  McPherson  last 
evening ;  also  Judge  and  Mrs.  Fields.  He  called  at  my  office  today 
in  regard  to  Senator  Jackson's  house.  Had  a  long  talk  with  Mr. 
Patton  in  regard  to  real  'estate  this  afternoon. 

April  15,  1886. 

Secretary  Sherman  made  me  an  offer  of  $20,000  cash  for  Judge 
Jackson's  house,  which  was  declined.  I  finally  got  Senator  Mc- 
Pherson to  add  another  thousand  and  closed  the  sale. 


555 

May  i,  1886. 

Sold  four  houses  on  Fifteenth  street  to  Mr.  Mills  for  $8000  cash. 
1  saw  General  Logan,  who  offered  me  twelve  and  one-half  cents 
for  the  building  lots  of  Mr.  Taylor  on  Meridian  Hill.  Mr.  Taylor 
declined  to  take  less  than  thirteen  cents,  and  General  Logan 
would  not  pay  that,  so  the  sale  fell  through. 

May  8,  1886. 

Attended  the  funeral  of  General  Paul  at  11.30.  He  was  buried 
at  Arlington ;  also  attended  the  funeral  of  Lieutenant  Hunt,  the 
son  of  General  Hunt  of  artillery  fame,  who  was  buried  at  Soldiers' 
Home  at  5  o'clock  P.  M. 

May  9,  1886. 

Last  evening  called  on  Senator  Sabin  and  Congressman  Gay. 
The  latter  went  out  with  me  today  at  n  o'clock,  and  we  went  by 
the  Chittenden  place  on  Pierce  Mill  road  and  Mr.  Green's  place, 
which  he  wanted  $25,000  for.  Mr.  Gay  told  me  to  make  an  offer 
of  $15,000  cash. 

May  10,  1886. 

After  breakfast  this  A.  M.  I  called  on  Mr.  Green,  making  him 
the  offer  of  $15,000  cash  for  Mr.  Gay,  which  he  declined.  I  then 
called  on  Mr.  Lament,  President  Cleveland's  private  secretary, 
giving  him  a  description  of  the  property,  stating  that  the  owner 
was  anxious  to  sell,  and  recommended  that  he  take  the  President 
to  look  at  it. 

May  13,  1886. 

Mr.  George  Green  came  into  my  office  today  to  see  if  I  would 
give  up  my  option  on  his  property.  I  declined  on  the  ground  that 
I  expected  to  make  a  sale  of  it  within  a  short  time,  as  I  had  men- 
tioned it  to  several,  among  them  Mr.  Lamont,  for  President 
Cleveland. 

May  14,  1886. 

After  spending  a  short  time  with  Stilson  Hutchins  about  the 
Hancock  house  matter,  I  met  Mr.  Samuel  Maddox  at  the  Ebbitt 
on  business.  During  the  day  Mr.  Green  called  at  my  office  and 
offered  $100  cash  if  I  would  give  up  my  option  on  his  place.  Not 
wishing  to  deprive  him  of  his  sale  and  not  having  had  a  bona  fide 
offer,  I  accepted  the  $100  on  condition  that  if  any  one  of  twelve 
names  became  the  owner  of  it  within  the  next  thirty  days  I  was  to 
have  my  full  commission,  which  he  agreed  to  in  the  presence  of 
witnesses  and  in  writing. 


556 

May  17,  1886. 

Mrs.  Bayliss  gave  me  her  I  street  house  to  sell  at  $23,000.  Took 
Col.  A.  H.  Bugher  through  it  this  afternoon,  and  he  decided  to 
take  it  at  her  price,  paying  me  $200  down  to  bind  the  bargain. 

May  18,  1886. 

Yesterday  afternoon,  after  calling  on  Stilson  Hutchins,  I  drove 
out  to  see  Oak  View,  George  Green's  place.  I  also  went  to  see 
Mr.  Nourse,  who  gave  me  fifteen  acres  of  his  land  to  sell  at  $9000. 

May  19,  1886. 

Having  been  informed  today  that  the  President  had  purchased 
Mr.  Green's  place  through  A.  A.  Wilson,  I  called  on  Mr.  Green 
for  a  statement,  but  could  get  no  satisfaction  from  him. 

May  20,  1886. 

Last  evening  met  General  Wagner  of  Texas,  and  was  with  him 
until  after  12  o'clock.  Called  on  Mr.  Henly  today  and  told  him 
how  Mr.  Wilson  was  trying  to  get  a  commission  out  of  Mr.  Green 
for  the  selling  of  his  land  to  Mr.  Cleveland.  Mr.  Nourse  called 
today  to  withdraw  the  option  on  the  property  he  had  given  me  to 
sell,  and  I  declined,  as  there  appears  to  be  some  underhanded 
work  going  on  with  Mr.  Wilson  and  one  or  two  others  of  his  ring. 
The  commission  is  still  due  me. 

May  21,  1886. 

Mr.  Ellison  called  at  my  office  this  A.  M.,  offering  to  sell  me  his 
twelve  acres  for  $20,000.  I  offered  him  $10,000,  which  he  de- 
clined, but  said  he  would  be  back  in  the  afternoon.  Upon  his 
second  call  he  agreed  to  split  the  difference,  and  I  finally  closed 
the  transaction  for  $15,000. 

May  22,  1886. 

After  dinner  last  evening  I  took  Mr.  Chambers  of  the  New  York 
Herald  on  a  drive  out  to  the  Green  place,  containing  twenty-eight 
acres,  which  I  have  sold  to  the  President  for  $21,500;  also  over  to 
the  place  on  the  Grant  road,  which  I  have  just  bought  from  Mr. 
Ellison. 

May  23,  1886. 

Spent  last  evening  with  Gen.  Philip  St.  George  Cook,  my  old 
Department  Commander,  at  the  Ebbitt  House. 


557 


May  26,  1886. 

General  Berdan  called  on  me  today  in  regard  to  a  house ;  also 
Mr.  Ellison,  who  came  with  all  the  papers  and  deed  for  Fairneld, 

which  I  received  today,  ex- 
changing in  part  payment  a  lot 
in  squares  1712  and  1114,  mak- 


ing   Fairneld    stand 
$15,000  in  cash. 


me    just 


May  28,  1886. 

Colonel  Bugher  called  at  my 
office  today,  and  we  went  to  see 
Messrs.  Wagner  and  Ashford, 
where  the  deed  was  passed, 
Bugher  giving  his  check  for 
$23,000  cash.  Mrs.  Bailey  paid 
me  $690  as  commission. 

Fairneld,  May  29,  1886. 

Mr.  Noble  went  with  me  to 

hear  Senator  Vance  of  North 

Carolina  address  our  Virginia 

Democratic     Association     last 


GEN.  BERDAN. 


evening. 

July  4,  1886. 

After  breakfast  I  invited  Col.  A.  B.  Mullet,  Mr.  Evans  and  Col- 
onel Moore  to  drive  out  to  Col.  S.  T.  Suit's  place.  He  entertained 
us  in  fine  style,  dining  and  wining  us  until  late  in  the  evening. 

July  6,  1886. 
Sold  Mason  place  for  $36,000  to  Senator  Sabin. 

Cumberland,  Md.,  July  26,  1886. 

Left  Washington  at  10.15  last  evening  on  my  way  to  Chicago. 
Our  train  was  so  heavily  loaded  with  pasengers  that  it  required 
three  engines  to  pull  us  up  the  hill.  Dined  at  the  Grand  Pacific 
Hotel,  Chicago,  at  4  o'clock  P.  M.  Met  Mr.  Eastman  and  took 
Captain  Grant,  with  eight  others,  from  the  depot  in  two  carriages. 
We  had  a  great  reception  this  evening.  There  are  125  in  our 
party,  who  clubbed  together  and  chartered  a  train  for  thirty-five 


558 

days,  proposing  to  see  everything  we  can  as  we  go  through  the 
country. 

On  the  Train  near  Fremont,  Neb.,  July  28,  1886. 

We  left  the  Pacific  Hotel  at  9  o'clock  last  night,  a  band  of  niusic 
marching  with  us  from  the  hotel  to  the  train,  which  left  at  T  T  P.  M. 
We  have  been  riding  through  a  beautiful  part  of  Iowa  most  of 
the  day. 

On  the  Train  near  Sherman,  Wyo.  Ter.,  July  28,  1886. 

The  train  averaged  twenty-five  miles  an  hour  last  night,  and 
we  slept  well.  Only  found  one  man  at  Denver  Junction  I  knew— 
H.  Egerton  from  Julesburg.  He  was  my  teamster  twenty  years 
ago.  Arrived  at  Cheyenne  at  12  o'clock.  Met  Mr.  Massey  of 
Washington,  who  is  located  there  now.  Invited  to  lunch  by  Mrs. 
Congressman  Post  and  her  niece,  Miss  Parker.  They  entertained 
us  handsomely.  Colonel  Wilson  took  me  all  over  the  city.  Met 
Colonels  Morrows  and  Chambers,  Twenty-first  and  Seventeenth 
Infantry. 

Salt  Lake  City,  Utah,  July  29,  1886. 

Train  stopped  at  Laramie  and  Sherman  a  short  time,  giving  us 
a  chance  to  see  a  good  deal  of  the  country.  As  we  have  our 
cameras,  we  are  taking  pictures  of  everything  of  interest.  At 
Ogden  I  met  Captain  Hall,  Seventh  Infantry,  and  Captain  Ingalls, 
Assistant  Quartermaster  and  nephew  of  General  Ingalls.  WTe 
have  sixteen  cars  on  our  train,  and  among  our  party  are  Gen- 
erals Sherman,  Black,  Sweitzer,  Colonels  Lemon,  Grosvenor, 
General  Burdette,  Colonel  Urell. 

Ogden,  Utah,  on  Train,  July  30,  1886. 

We  arrived  here  at  9  o'clock  this  P.  M.  After  our  arrival  we 
attended  the  speeches  made  by  General  Burdett  and  others  of  our 
party  at  the  Pavilion  after  breakfast  this  A.  M.  Took  the  Salt  Lake 
train  and  rode  thirty-odd  miles  from  the  city,  where  I  enjoyed 
one  of  the  best  baths  I  ever  had.  We  all  had  a  good  deal  of  fun 
out  in  the  water,  as  it  was  impossible  to  sink. 

San  Francisco,  Cal.,  August  i,  1886. 

Upon  reaching  Sacramento  a  large  delegation  from  San  Fran- 
cisco met  us  and  filled  our  cars  with  wine  and  fruit,  welcoming  us 
to  their  great  city,  and  everyone  was  wild  with  delight  upon  our 
arrival. 


559 

Frisco,  August  2,  1886. 

While  registering  at  the  Palace  Hotel  last  evening  Mr.  Cal- 
lahan,  president  of  the  First  National  Bank,  insisted  upon  my 
being  his  guest.  Upon  arrival  at  his  house  I  met  his  wife  and 
daughters,  who  had  prepared  an  elegant  dinner,  after  which  I  was 
shown  a  fine  parlor  and  bedroom  and  bathroom  on  the  second 
floor.  After  being  highly  entertained,  retired  at  12  o'clock. 

After  breakfast  this  A.M.  Dan  McCarty  came  to  the  house  with 
a  $10,000  team  and  drove  me  to  the  Park  racetrack,  showing  me 
his  stable  of  trotters.  At  the  meeting  today  Gen.  Martin  Mc- 
Mahon  was  elected  president  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  Asso- 
ciation and  Gen.  H.  C.  King,  secretary. 

Frisco,  August  3,  1886. 

Met  a  number  of  friends  at  the  Occidental,  where  Mr.  Davis  and 
I  visited  with  Miss  Callahan  and  Mrs.  Terrell,  taking  them  to  meet 
Generals  Sherman,  Black,  Sweitzer  and  King.  Mr.  Callahan  in- 
troduced us  to  Mervin  Donhue,  one  of  the  leading  entertainers 
of  this  city,  who  invited  Generals  Sherman,  Black  and  about  fifty 
of  us  to  go  with  him  on  an  excursion  to  Redwood,  he  furnishing  a 
glee  club  of  100  men. 

August  4,  1886. 

After  dinner  last  evening  at  Mr.  Callahan's  we  attended  the 
Army  of  the  Potomac  banquet.  Generals  Sherman,  McMahon, 
King,  Fairchild,  Beaver,  Burdett,  Pike,  Governor  Stoneman  and 
several  others  made  speeches,  and  it  was  after  2  o'clock  this  A.  M. 
before  we  broke  up.  After  breakfast  I  dressed  in  full  uniform 
and  rode  as  an  aid  to  Gen.  S.  S.  Burdett  on  one  of  the  elegant 
horses  Mr.  McCarty  had  loaned  to  me  for  the  occasion.  I  was  by 
the  side  of  General  Burdett,  and  viewed  the  parade  as  it  passed. 
It  was  a  grand  sight  and  one  of  the  largest  assemblages  that  has 
ever  taken  place  in  this  city. 

Geiser  Springs,  Cal. 

Last  evening  Mr.  Davis  and  I  took  Miss  Terrell  and  Miss  Cal- 
lahan to  the  Pavilion  to  hear  the  speech  of  General  Logan,  after 
which  the  dancing  took  place,  which  was  greatly  enjoyed  by  all. 
This  morning  we  took  the  four-horse  stage,  and  both  of  us  rode 
on  top,  where  we  got  an  elegant  view  of  the  mountains  and  the 
canons  one  hundred  feet  below  the  road,  which  runs  along  on  the 


560 

edge,  where  it  is  impossible  for  more  than  one  vehicle  to  pass  at 
a  time.  Very  few  accidents  occur,  although  it  appears  very  dan- 
gerous to  drive  so  close  to  the  deep  canons. 

Frisco,  August  6,  1886. 

Took  hot  water  and  steam  baths  from  the  Geysers  last  night, 
and  this  morning  made  a  general  inspection  of  the  mountains  and 
springs  bubbling  up  with  boiling  hot  water.  We  reached  Clover- 
dale  between  12  and  I  o'clock  and  took  the  2  o'clock  train,  arriving 
at  5  P.  M.  and  dining  at  the  Occidental  with  Mr.  Davis.  We  went 
through  Chinatown,  purchasing  a  number  of  Chinese  curiosities 
for  the  children. 

Frisco,  August  7,  1886. 

Upon  my  arrival  at  Mr.  Callahan's  last  evening  I  found  a  num- 
ber of  blank  invitations  from  Governor  Stoneman  requesting  us 
to  be  his  guests  on  the  steamer.  We  met  the  Governor  and 
his  party  at  the  Occidental,  and  went  in  the  cars  to  the 
steamer.  Airs.  Stoneman  appeared  to  be  very  indignant  because 
the  Governor  did  not  have  a  band  of  music  at  the  hotel 
and  carriages  for  us  to  ride  in  instead  of  going  on  the  cars. 
We  had  a  band  of  music  on  the  boat,  which  was  loaded 
with  fruit,  all  kinds  of  wine  and  everything  the  market 
afforded.  On  our  way  to  Mare  Island,  passing  the  forts,  the  Gov- 
ernor's salute  was  fired.  Mrs.  Captain  Nichol  and  Colonel  and 
Mrs.  Savage  were  also  attractive  hosts  and  helped  entertain. 
Commodore  Belknap  received  us  at  the  wharf  with  all  the  marines 
in  full  dress,  which  he  had  stand  and  present  arms  as  we  passed 
to  the  sailors'  loft,  which  had  been  cleared  and  prepared  for  danc- 
ing. After  two  or  three  hours  of  enjoyment,  the  grand  spread 
was  placed  at  our  disposal  by  the  Commodore.  On  our  return 
Mrs.  Stoneman  spoke  to  me  regarding  the  Governor's  future, 
when  I  suggested  that  he  come  on  to  Washington,  and  I  would 
see  if  we  couldn't  get  a  bill  passed  placing  him  on  the  retired  list 
as  a  Brigadier  or  Major-General .  She  seemed  to  be  delighted  at 
such  a  proposition. 

Frisco,  August  8,  1886. 

It  was  after  10  o'clock  last  evening  before  we  returned  here. 
This  morning  Mr.  Davis  and  I  called  on  Colonel  and  Mrs.  Savage 
and  Mrs.  Nichol  at  the  Palace  Hotel,  with  General  and  Mrs. 


56 1 

Black  and  Colonel  Irish.  We  also  met  General  Chipman  and  Mr. 
Scott  of  the  iron  works,  one  of  the  prominent  business  men  of  this 
city.  During  the  afternoon  the  city  furnished  us  carriages  and 
took  us  to  the  Sutro  Gardens  and  entertained  us  with  an  elegant 
dinner  at  the  Cliff  House.  Here  we  could  witness  hundreds  of 
seals  basking  in  the  sun  on  the  rocks. 

Portland,  Ore. 

Our  steamer  had  many  more  guests  than  the  law  allowed.  Gen- 
erals Sherman  and  Sweitzer  entertained  us  most  of  the  way.  We 
stopped  at  Astoria  a  short  time  to  see  the  large  salmon-canning 
factories.  The  Columbia  river  reminds  one  of  the  Hudson.  The 
beautiful  scenery  and  green  mountains  all  the  way  from  Astoria 
to  Portland  are  a  grand  sight. 

On  the  Train  near  Fossil  Station,  Nevada,  August  14,  1886. 

While  in  Portland  I  was  entertained  by  Senator  Dolph's 
brother,  General  Williams  and  Mr.  Holladay,  who  showed  me 
every  place  of  interest  in  the  city.  General  Sherman  threw  off  all 
his  dignity  as  the  General  of  the  Army  and  enjoyed  everything  as 
well  as  the  rest  of  us. 

Denver,  Col.,  August  15,  1886. 

Stopped  at  Cheyenne  a  few  minutes,  where  we  met  Mrs.  Post 
and  Miss  Parker,  who  drove  us  around  the  city  and  gave  us  a 
quick  lunch  of  champagne  and  sponge  cake. 

August  16,  1886. 

On  our  arrival  in  Denver  we  were  met  by  General  Miles,  Major 
Downing  and  his  wife,  Governor  Gilpin,  Mr.  Johnson,  Governor 
Grant  and  quite  a  number  of  Denver's  distinguished  citizens. 
Today  Governor  Grant  presented  me  with  some  melted  silver  in 
the  rough  as  it  came  out  of  the  furnace  at  his  smelting  works. 
Called  on  my  old  friend,  Col.  Ward  H.  Lamon,  who  has  been  sick 
for  several  weeks  at  his  hotel. 

Colorado  Springs,  near  Pike's  Peak,  Colorado, 

August  17,  1886. 

Mr.  Goldsborough  and  I  spent  most  of  last  evening  at  Gov- 
ernor Gilpin's,  where  his  daughters  entertained  us  with  music. 
We  left  on  the  7.45  A.  M.  train  for  Pike's  Peak. 


562 

Denver,  August  18,  1886. 

After  going  through  the  Garden  of  the  Gods  yesterday,  we 
drove  through  President  Palmer's  private  grounds  and  landed  at 
the  Springs  at  5  o'clock,  reaching  this  city  at  n  o'clock. 

Kansas  City,  August  20,  1886. 

We  left  Generals  McMahon  and  King  in  Colorado  Springs. 
Before  leaving  Denver  Mr.  Guy  Thompson  of  Washington  enter- 
tained me  with  a  pleasant  drive  around  the  principal  portion  of 
the  city.  Passed  through  old  Fort  WTallace  at  3  o'clock  this  A.  M., 
and  was  surprised  to  see  the  hundreds  of  trees  growing  where 
there  was  nothing  but  a  barren  plain  when  I  was  last  here,  seven- 
teen years  ago.  It  was  interesting  to  see  this  country  again  where 
1  used  to  scout  after  Indians.  It  is  now  settled  up  with  houses, 
and  large  crops  are  growing.  I  came  through  Forts  Hayes,  Ells- 
worth, Harker  and  Riley.  Met  many  familiar  faces  at  Junction 
City,  Topeka  and  Leavenworth. 

St.  Louis,  Mo.,  August  21,  1886. 

We  arrived  here  at  10  o'clock  this  A.  M.  Met  Major  Candee 
and  Colonel  Ellis  of  the  Thirteenth  Infantry.  A  large  party  of  us 
were  invited  to  inspect  the  Anheuser  Brewery,  one  of  the  most 
popular  in  the  world,  and  after  a  drive  through  Shaw's  Garden 
and  the  principal  places  of  interest  we  boarded  the  train  for  Cin- 
cinnati. 

Washington,  D.  C,  Monday,  August  23,  1886. 

After  being  entertained  and  seeing  everything  of  interest  in  Cin- 
cinnati, we  left  at  9  o'clock  last  evening.  Stopped  at  Martinsburg 
a  few  minutes,  where  I  met  several  friends.  Arriving  home  this 
evening,  I  found  my  family  all  well.  This  was  one  of  the  most  de- 
lightful excursions  of  my  life,  and  it  is  remarkable  that  no  sickness 
or  accident  occurrred  during  the  whole  journey. 

October  5,  1886. 

Mr.  Gilliland,  John  R.  McLean's  secretary  and  operator,  called 
at  my  office  with  Congressman  Beriah  Wilkins  of  Ohio,  and  we 
went  out  to  look  at  houses.  He  made  me  an  offer  for  the  corner 
of  M  and  Fifteenth  streets,  giving  me  $500  to  bind  the  bargain, 
but  the  old  woman  who  owns  the  property  has  requested  me  to 
wait  until  she  consults  with  her  son  before  signing  the  deed. 


November  5,  1886. 

Secretary  Whitney  sent  for  me  to  know  what  price  ought  to  be 
placed  on  twenty-five  acres  of  his  land  on  the  Loughborough  and 
Tennallytown  Road.  When  I  said  $1500  per  acre  he  was  sur- 
prised, thinking  it  was  too  much  to  ask  for  it,  as  he  had  only  paid 
$300,  and  said  that  a  gentleman  had  asked  him  to  fix  a  price  and 
would  return  soon. 

December  11,  1886. 

Had  quite  an  interview  with  Mr.  Beriah  Wilkins  today,  who  is 
disappointed  in  Governor  Campbell's  not  purchasing  property 
with  him.  He  now  counts  on  Senator  Walthal  going  in  with  him. 

December  16,  1886. 

Spent  last  evening  with  Congressman  Tim  Tarsney.  Mr. 
Tarsney  is  one  of  the  most  entertaining  gentlemen  that  has  ever 
come  to  Congress. 

December  20,  1886. 

Colonel  Burgess  of  Oxford,  Md.,  called  upon  me  today  with  a 
letter  from  Governor  Lloyd  requesting  me  to  take  the  professor- 
ship of  the  military  school,  offering  me  $10,000  a  year;  but  I 
declined  to  give  up  my  real-estate  business. 

Oxford,  Md.,  December  22,  1886. 

Colonel  Burgess  induced  me  to  make  a  visit  here  in  order  that 
I  could  look  over  his  institution,  making  it  appear  to  me  that  I 
could  carry  on  my  real-estate  transactions  and  run  the  institution 
in  addition.  Procuring  passes,  he  invited  me  as  his  guest,  and  I 
arrived  here  this  A.  M.,  meeting  Colonel  Tillman  and  Mr.  Martin. 
I  finally  agreed  to  purchase  the  property  and  buy  out  the  whole 
institution.  Colonel  Tillman  invited  me  to  dine  with  him  at  Eas- 
ton.  He  is  one  of  the  trustees  of  the  school  and  a  cousin  of  my 
wife's,  and  I  naturally  placed  a  great  deal  of  confidence  in  him. 
Washington,  D.  C.,  December  26,  1886. 

I  invited  Colonel  Burgess  to  make  me  a  visit,  and  he  is  now  my 
guest.  I  have  ordered  papers  made  out  and  am  investigating  the 
title  of  his  property. 

December  29,  1886. 

Took  Mr.  B.  H.  Warder  out  to  see  the  Bradley  farm  this  after- 
noon. We  were  caught  in  quite  a  heavy  storm.  Called  at  the  War 
Department  and  requested  a  detail  of  Lieutenants  Evans  and 
Allen,  who  desire  to  be  professors  at  my  academy. 


564 

The  following  reply  from  Professor  Burgess,  who  had  charge 
of  the  military  academy  during  my  absence,  appears  to  require 
no  further  explanation : 

Maryland  Military  and  Naval  Department, 
Executive  Department, 

Oxford,  Md.,  December  27,  1886. 
My  Dear  Major: 

Yours  received.    I  will  endeavor  to  carry  out  your  instructions, 
and  you  may  expect  me  in  Washington  Wednesday  or  Thursday. 
Yours  truly, 

(Signed)         B.  J.  BURGESS. 
December  31,  1886. 

Mr.  Bradley  is  very  anxious  for  me  to  dispose  of  his  large  farm, 
and  has  authorized  me  to  sell  it  for  $30,000.  I  talked  for  nearly 
two  hours  with  Mr.  Warder,  trying  to  induce  him  to  take  it,  but  he 
is  still  hesitating. 

During  the  summer  I  fixed  up  a  windmill  with  pipes  extending 
to  the  garden  and  stables,  fenced  in  about  an  acre  for  chickens, 
and  made  an  addition  to  my  house,  making  it  a  very  attractive  and 
pleasant  place.  I  have  also  set  out  a  number  of  fruit  and  shade 
trees.  Have  had  no  reason  to  complain  of  my  business  transac- 
tions during  the  year,  which  net  me  a  profit  of  over  $25,000.  It  is 
a  great  undertaking  to  handle  the  Oxford  Academy,  but  if  not 
opposed  by  the  War  Department  in  selecting  my  officers  or  as- 
sistant professors  I  will  make  a  success  of  it.  The  following  is  a 
view  of  the  academv: 


Oxford  Military  Academy. 


CHAPTER  XXV. 

Fairfield,  D.  C,  January  i,  1887. 

A  very  cold  blizzard  came  up  last  evening.  At  10  o'clock  this 
A.  M.  Colonel  Burgess  met  me  at  the  War  Department,  where  all 
the  officers  of  the  Army  and  Navy  and  Marine  Corps  in  full  dress 
formed  in  line  and  marched  to  the  White  House. 

Baltimore,  Md.,  January  4,  1887. 

Professor  Burgess  was  very  much  disappointed  in  not  having 
his  uniform  to  wear  New  Year's  Day,  as  it  did  not  arrive  from 
Oxford  until  we  were  through  calling.  I  fixed  up  our  agreements, 
and  Dr.  Culver,  an  attorney-at-law  and  friend  of  mine,  has  taken 
charge  of  my  office  to  look  after  real-estate  interests  in  Washing- 
ton. I  left  at  4  o'clock  this  P.  M.,  after  calling  on  General  Drum 
and  Colonel  Sheridan  about  a  detail  of  officers  for  my  academy. 
Arriving  here  I  found  the  river  frozen  so  the  boats  could  not  run 
to  Oxford. 

Oxford,  Md.,  January  6,  1887. 

Left  Baltimore  yesterday  afternoon  by  train,  arriving  here  at 
i  o'clock  P.  M.,  and  was  met  by  Colonel  Tillman,  Mr.  Martin  and 
two  appraisers,  who  fixed  the  value  of  all  the  property.  I  then 
met  all  the  teachers  and  assigned  each  one  to  a  special  branch  and 
made  a  general  inspection  of  the  academy  and  all  the  'cadets. 
Found  many  of  the  rooms  in  a  neglected  state,  and  find  it  will 
be  necessary  to  immediately  enforce  strict  military  discipline. 
Accepted  Professor  Burgess'  resignation  today,  but  he  will  re- 
main to  assist  me  for  a  time. 

(Copy  of  circular  sent  patrons.) 
Maryland  Military  and  Naval  Academy, 

Oxford,  Md.,  January  6,  1887. 

Dear  Sir — Having  become  proprietor  and  general  superinten- 
dent of  this  Academy,  I  this  day  assume  charge  of  same.  Parents, 
guardians  or  patrons  of  this  Institution  are  hereby  cautioned  and 
notified  not  to  pay  any  moneys  or  honor  any  drafts  by  whomso- 
ever drawn  unless  countersigned  by  myself,  and  no  person  has 
authority  to  make  contracts  or  promises  or  engagements  of  any 
nature  whatsoever  by  or  for  the  Institution  unless  endorsed  by  me. 
Very  respectfully, 

(Signed)         CEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Col.  and  Supt 


566 

After  I  had  purchased  the  Oxford  Academy  and  taken  posses- 
sion as  superintendent,  Colonel  Burgess,  the  formei  superintend- 
ent, tendered  his  resignation. 

The  following  is  from  Prof.  B.  J.  Burgess  in  relation  to  the 
cadets : 

Oxford,  Md.,  January  8,  1887. 

Dear  Sir — I  write  to  say  that  there  are  now  150  cadets  at  the 
Academy,  and  they  are  coming  on  every  train,  and  this  will  be 
the  case  until  February  I.  I  feel  sure  that  the  number  will  reach 
200  by  the  time  named.  Fifteen  on  the  train  last  night  and  thir- 
teen on  the  noon  train  today. 

Yours  very  truly, 

(Signed)         B.  J.  BURGESS. 
P.  S. — Get  a  West  Pointer  by  all  means;  very  important. 

Oxford,  Md.,  January  10,  1887. 

Left  Washington  yesterday  afternoon  and  arrived  here  at  10 
o'clock  this  A.  M.  Had  quite  a  talk  with  Congressman  Ander- 
son before  leaving  in  regard  to  his  boy.  Met  Mr.  Nixon  and  Mr. 
Martin,  with  whom  I  am  interested  in  carrying  on  this  estab- 
lishment. 

Oxford,  Md.,  January  i,  1887. 

This  morning  brought  me  a  very  interesting  letter  from  my  lit- 
tle daughter  Cecilia,  who  is  twelve  years  of  age,  which  reads  as 
follows : 

My  Dear  Papa: 

I  received  your  letter  and  was  very  glad  to  hear  from  you. 
Mamma  has  another  little  baby,  born  at  half-past  nine  this  morn- 
ing. It  is  a  little  girl,  and  looks  like  Oscar.  All  of  us  were  so  sur- 
prised to  see  it. 

Hope  you  will  be  here  soon.    All  of  us  send  a  thousand  kisses 
to  you  and  wish  you  were  here. 
From  your  affectionate  daughter, 

(Signed)         CECILIA  HAROLD. 

For  commission  received  I  sent  acknowledgment  as  follows : 

Maryland  Military  and  Naval  Academy, 
Executive  Department, 

Oxford,  Md.,  January  19,  1887. 
Col.  J.  Howard,  Adjutant-General, 

Annapolis,  Md.: 


567 

.Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  this  day  the  receipt  of 
commission  as  Colonel  and  Superintendent  of  this  Institution. 
Convey  my  thanks  to  the  Governor,  and  oblige, 
Your  most  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         G.  A.  ARMES, 
Supt. 

After  I  had  signed  the  contract  to  take  charge  of  the  Oxford 
Academy  I  was  informed  that  Colonel  Burgess  was  tricky.  Upon 
requesting  him  to  withdraw  the  contract  he  declined,  sending  me 
the  following  in  reply  : 

Oxford,  Md.,  January  28,  1887. 

Dear  Sir — Since  I  have  given  out  to  the  patrons  that  you  will 
be  the  Superintendent,  and  that  there  will  be  a  change  in  the  ad- 
ministration, I  shall  expect  you  to  carry  out  the  letter  of  agree- 
ment you  signed,  as  it  would  damage  me  more  than  $5000  should 
you  not  hold  to  the  contract. 

I  shall  expect  you  Wednesday  morning  to  assume  full  charge, 

and  I  hope  you  can  arrange  to  pay  me  $2000  upon  your  arrival. 

#         #         #         #         #         *         #         *         *         *         # 

The  outlook  here  is  excellent,  so  you  must  come  down  with  the 
determination  to  make  this  the  academy  of  America. 
Yours  truly, 

(Signed)        B.  J.  BURGESS. 

It  was  not  long  after  I  took  full  charge  that  I  discovered  the 
crooked  transactions  of  Colonel  Burgess  to  such  an  extent  that 
the  institution  was  on  the  eve  of  breaking  up,  as  many  of  the 
cadets  had  been  and  were  then  deserting. 

Fairfield,  D.  C,  February  n,  1887. 

After  leaving  the  necessary  instructions  for  Colonel  Cantwell, 
rny  assistant  superintendent,  I  left  Oxford  on  the  10  o'clock  P.  M. 
boat.  Reached  Baltimore  at  5  o'clock  this  A.  M.  Called  around 
to  the  banks  and  was  identified  by  Uncle  Charlie  Kerr.  Met  Dr. 
Culver  at  my  office,  who  had  a  large  accumulation  of  business 
matters  on  hand. 

February  16,  1887. 

Adjutant-General  Drum  pretends  to  be  very  friendly,  and  says 
he  will  secure  me  an  officer  instructor  as  soon  as  possible.  It  is 
very  important  that  I  make  a  change  in  several  of  my  professors 
and  secure  one  or  two  Army  and  Navy  graduates. 

The  following  extract  is  from  Mr.  H.  S.  Buck,  president  of  the 
Stewartsville  Bank : 


568 

Stewartsville,  Mo.,  February  22,  1887. 

Dear  Sir — I  received  a  letter  from  Frank  yesterday,  wherein  he 
said  you  requested  him  to  write  me  about  the  payments  of  his  sec- 
ond term's  tuition.  This  I  paid  December  20  to  Colonel  Burgess. 

It  is  my  aim  to  keep  funds  in  your  hands  at  all  times  to  Frank's 
credit,  to  be  used  by  you  to  pay  any  necessary  bill  made  by  him.  I 
do  not  desire  that  he  spend  one  dollar  unnecessarily. 

*  :j;  :[{***##*#* 

I  am  in  hope,  under  your  administration,  it  will  all  be  right. 
Please  write  me. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  dear  sir, 


Burgess  had  collected  the  two  terms  in  addition  to  $500  Mr. 
Buck  had  sent  him  for  his  son  and  failed  to  make  any  account 
to  me. 

The  following  is  a  letter  received  from  one  of  the  patrons,  who 
appreciated  me  enough  to  have  his  boy  in  my  full  control.  Mr. 
Poppert  is  one  of  the  leading  and  prosperous  gentlemen  of  Mil- 
waukee : 

Milwaukee,  March  3,  1887. 

My  Dear  Sir — Received  your  telegram  saying  school  con- 
tinues; rumors  about  closing  are  false.  Now,  my  boy,  Oscar,  has 
written  to  me  school  will  be  closed;  send  money  to  come  home. 
Colonel  Armes,  1  wish  you  would  take  the  boy  and  give  him  a 
good  lesson,  and  make  him  mind  his  own  business.  Please!  Did 
you  take  him  apart  from  that  Orths  boy?  He  is  a  very  bad  boy. 
Hope  you  will  make  a  good  scholar  and  soldier  out  of  the  boy. 
I  am,  yours  very  respectfully, 

GEO.  POPPERT. 

The  following  is  from  Browning,  King  &  Co.,  with  whom  I 
have  had  large  transactions  : 

New  York,  March  18,  1887. 

Dear  Sir — Your  favor  of  I5th  came  duly  to  hand. 
We  regret  to  learn  of  the  unfavorable  outlook,  and  hope  you 
are  not  too  easily  discouraged.     We  have  perfect  faith  in  your 
business  integrity,  so  far  as  our  interests  are  involved. 
Yours  truly, 

(Signed)         ROBERT  J.  BLACK. 

The  following  are  some  letters  from  a  few  of  my  patrons,  the 
contents  of  which  show  their  confidence  in  me  : 


569 

Memphis  National  Bank, 

Memphis,  Tenn.,  March  19,  1887. 

Dear  Sir — Yours,  i6th,  received  and  noted.  I  am  very  much 
surprised  to  learn  true  condition  of  your  school,  and  can  but  sym- 
pathize with  you.  It  has  been  but  a  month  (February  21)  since  I 
remitted  you  the  balance  you  advised  me  would  be  due  on  account 
my  son's  tuition  for  present  term.  I  think  you  will  give  me  credit 
for  having  met  every  demand  promptly.  I  am  and  have  been 
much  pleased  with  your  school,  and  it  was  my  intention  that  my 
son  should  remain  another  year  or  more.  If  you  will  advise  me 
of  your  intentions  and  prospects  for  the  future,  and  how  many 
cadets  now  that  will  remain,  and  if  you  can  secure  a  sufficient  num- 
ber to  justify  you  to  keep  open,  I  will  advise  you  of  my  intentions. 
1  am  not  only  willing,  but  anxious  for  my  son  to  remain,  provided 
he  will  have  your  care  and  attention,  and  keep  up  his  studies,  drill, 
etc.,  and  will  gladly  advance  you  the  $20  mentioned.  Please  ad- 
vise me  if  my  son  has  ever  received  his  uniform.  I  am  afraid  he  is 
hardly  decent  for  want  of  proper  clothes.  I  paid  for  his  uniform 
last  fall,  but  have  never  been  advised  of  his  having  received  it.  As 
soon  as  your  reply  is  received,  will  promptly  answer. 

Hoping  you  may  be  successful  in  your  endeavors  to  build  up  the 
Maryland  Military  and  Naval  Academy, 
I  am,  yours  truly, 

(Signed)        J.  H.  SMITH. 

Oxford,  March  22,  1887. 

During  the  past  few  weeks  I  have  found  it  necessary  to  make 
arrangements  to  transfer  all  my  cadets  who  desire  to  serve  out 
their  term  to  the  St.  John's  Academy,  Annapolis,  Md.  Professor 
Burgess  having  disappeared  during  my  absence  with  several  thou- 
sand dollars  in  cash  and  involving  me  in  obligations  of  over 
840,000,  I  employed  two  lawyers  and  put  several  detectives  after 
him. 

March  30,  1887. 

I  have  about  completed  arrangements  for  all  my  cadets.  Wrote 
Governor  Lloyd  a  long  letter  today.  Everything  seems  to  be 
working  satisfactorily. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  April  12,  1887. 

Mr.  John  R.  McLean  and  I  went  around  to  look  at  G  and  Thir- 
teenth street  property.  Mrs.  Governor  Merriam  and  Mrs.  Han- 
cock went  through  the  Van  Wyck  house  today  and  made  me  an 
offer  of  $30,000  and  their  Pennsylvania  avenue  house  for  it. 
Closed  the  sale  of  a  lot  with  B.  H.  Warder  for  $15,000. 


570 

Washington,  D.  C.,  May  10,  1887. 

1  finally  settled  up  all  my  Oxford  affairs,  arranging  with  the 
creditors  to  pay  them  monthly,  and  have  sacrificed  about  $25,000 
worth  of  real  estate  in  order  to  get  the  cash  to  pay  up  all  the  back 
bills  so  that  no  one  will  be  the  loser  but  myself.  Many  cadets 
have  complied  with  my  circular  and  have  gone  to  the  St.  John's 
College. 

May  21,  1887. 

Mr.  A.  Devine,  son  of  Judge  Devine  of  San  Antonio,  Texas,  is 
my  guest.  He  is  interested  in  the  grand  drill  in  which  the  crack 
companies  from  the  different  cities  of  the  country  are  competing 
for  the  prize.  The  Belknap  Rifles  of  San  Antonio  appear  to  be 
ahead,  and  the  White  Lot  and  Monument  Lot  are  covered  with 
tents.  Had  a  social  time  with  Colonel  Belknap  at  the  Arlington 
this  afternoon. 

The  following  is  from  Governor  Merriam  of  Minnesota  in  re- 
lation to  real  estate : 

May  30,  1887. 
Col.  G.  A.  Armes, 

Washington,  D.  C. : 

Dear  Sir — Please  advise  me,  if  you  can,  whether  the  Van  Wyck 
property  is  still  for  sale,  and  if  so,  what  figure  you  think  is  the  very 
lowest  one  that  would  buy  it. 

An  answer  at  your  earliest  convenience  will  much  oblige 
Yours  truly, 

(Signed)         W.  R.  MERRIAM. 

I  received  a  letter  from  my  agent,  Major  Gordon,  San  Antonio, 
who  made  me  a  profit  of  several  thousand  dollars  on  one  real- 
estate  transaction,  enclosing  the  money. 

Great  Bend,  Kansas,  July  17,  1887. 
My  Dear  Major: 

Your  welcome  letter  received.    I  think  it  would  be  a  good  idea 
to  have  the  scene  of  your  memorable  battle  commemorated  in 
some  manner.    If  I  had  plenty  of  time  I  would  take  the  time  and 
go  up  there  and  secure  some  of  those  skulls  for  you. 
Yours  truly, 

(Signed)         HENRY  INMAN. 


Among  the  many  applications  at  my  college  I  have  one  from 
Mr.  Paul  E.  Beckwith,  who  is  connected  with  the  National 
Museum.  I  regretted  not  being  able  to  secure  his  services  in  time 
to  save  my  institution. 

The  following  is  from  my  old  Captain  of  the  Sixteenth  Vir- 
ginia Infantry,  Boonville,  Mo : 

July  26,  1887. 

Dear  Sir — I  arrived  safely  home  on  Friday. 

*         *         *         *         *         ****** 

1  have  been  appointed  one  of  the  committee  of  Missourians  to 

go  to  Washington  to  ask  the  President  to  St.  Louis. 

*********** 

I  had  expected  to  hear  from  you  ere  this  as  to  whether  your 
Treasury  man  had  taken  the  Maryland  property. 
Yours  truly, 

(Signed)         A.  W.  WIDDICOMB. 

September  8,  1887. 

During  the  past  few  weeks  I  have  been  very  busy  in  real-estate 
matters.  Capt.  Thomas  Lay  of  the  United  States  Revenue  Cut- 
ter called  on  me  in  regard  to  real  estate  today.  I  invited  Dr. 
Joseph  R.  Smith  of  the  United  States  Army  to  my  home  as  my 
guest,  and  then  took  him  to  Secretary  Whitney's  reception  given 
to  the  foreign  doctors.  I  also  invited  Dr.  Austin  of  Boston.  This 
entertainment  is  considered  one  of  the  grandest  that  has  been 
given  for  years. 

September  10,  1887. 

After  my  return  from  a  drive  with  Colonel  Crowley  he  invited 
me  to  dine  with  him  at  the  hotel  with  Doctor  and  Mrs.  Wedge-- 
wood of  London,  and  it  was  after  10  o'clock  before  we  got  up 
from  the  table.  I  then  attended  the  Jefferson  banquet.  Sat  down 
at  ii  o'clock  and  did  not  break  up  until  after  4  o'clock  this  A.  M. 
I  was  introduced  to  forty  or  fifty  of  the  guests,  who  gave  me  press- 
ing invitations  to  visit  their  homes  in  Europe. 

October  4,  1887. 

I  was  up  until  4  o'clock  this  A.  M.,  and  this  afternoon  invited 
Harry  Smith  and  Captain  Thomas  to  take  a  drive.  Saw  Mr. 
Washington  McLean  and  his  son  John  in  regard  to  the  Fifteenth 
street  houses. 


572 

I  received  a  letter  from  Col.  William  Dickson  asking  me  to  act 
as  an  assistant  Grand  Marshal  at  the  reception  given  to  Governor 
Sheppard  on  his  first  return  from  Mexico. 

October  7,  1887. 

Mr.  John  R.  McLean  authorized  me  to  pay  $30,000  cash  for  the 
Hoban  house.  We  gave  Governor  Sheppard  one  of  the  grandest 
ovations  last  evening  that  was  ever  given  to  any  citizen  of  this 
District.  Pennsylvania  avenue  was  ablaze  with  fireworks.  I  was 
assistant  marshal ;  had  military  discipline,  and  everything  went 
like  clockwork. 

October  22,  1887. 

I  finally  got  Messrs.  Sands  and  Hoban  to  agree  to  take  $60,000 
for  the  two  houses  next  to  the  Shoreham.  Mr.  McLean  offered 
55,000  cash,  which  they  declined.  Colonel  Staples  called  on  me 
today,  requesting  me  to  try  and  secure  the  McLean  property  for 
a  hotel  site. 

October  26,  1887. 

Had  a  long  talk  with  Senator  Robb,  who  authorized  me  to  sell 
his  property,  corner  Vermont  avenue  and  H  street,  for  $35,000. 
Mr.  McLean  offered  me  $57,000  cash  for  the  Hoban  and  Sands 
house,  which  was  declined.  Wormley  authorized  me  to  sell  his 
hotel  property  for  $175,000. 

October  28,  1887. 

I  suggested  to  Mr.  McLean  that  he  let  Colonel  Bugher  go  with 
me  and  try  to  close  the  deal  with  Sands  and  Hoban,  to  which  he 
consented,  and  we  closed  the  transaction  at  $58,000  cash.  I  or- 
dered the  abstract  made  by  Ashford. 

November  i,  1887. 

Called  on  Dr.  Eggleston,  Captain  and  Miss  Grey  and  Mrs.  and 
Miss  Frost  last  evening;  also  Baron  Von  Zedwitz,  offering  him 
$50,000  for  the  German  minister's  property  on  Fifteenth  street. 

November  5,  1887. 

Stopped  by  Mr.  Dodge's  house  last  evening  to  see  about  his 
bay  horse,  which  I  bought  for  $250  for  Colonel  Bugher.  Met 
Mr.  John  R.  McLean  this  morning  at  9.40,  and  he  handed  me  a 
check  for  $750  for  my  services. 


573 

November  19,  1887. 

Mr.  McLean  authorized  me  to  sell  Colonel  Staples  his  I  street 
and  Vermont  avenue  front  for  $400,000  or  lease  it  to  him  for 
ninety-nine  years  for  $24,000  a  year.  I  made  Colonel  Staples  a 
plat,  and  it  looks  very  much  as  if  the  sale  will  go  through. 

November  21,  1887. 

Colonel  Staples  seemed  very  anxious  to  meet  Mr.  McLean  and 
deal  with  him  direct,  thinking  perhaps  he  could  induce  him  to 
take  less  than  $400,000.  I  brought  them  together  at  11.30  this 
A.  M.,  and  Colonel  Staples  invited  Mr.  McLean  to  join  him  in  a 
little  champagne  lunch,  which  John  R.  declined,  requesting  to 
know  whether  he  proposed  to  take  the  property  at  $400,000.  Col- 
onel Staples  hesitated  and  undertook  to  argue,  when  John  R.  re- 
minded him  that  he  was  very  busy  and  did  not  care  about  selling 
the  property  for  less  than  $500,000  so  long  as  he  did  not  care  to 
close  the  bargain  with  me  at  $400,000,  and  the  deal  fell  through. 

December  16,  1887. 

Called  on  Mr.  S.  R.  Bond  at  his  office  today  and  sold  him  Mr. 
Ralph  Gwynn's  ten  acres,  for  which  Mr.  Gwynn  paid  me  $181 
commission. 

December  22,  1887. 

Called  on  President  Cleveland  and  most  of  the  Cabinet  in  re- 
gard to  the  riding  club  we  are  organizing. 

December  31,  1887. 

I  have  been  very  busy  settling  up  all  my  bills  in  the  past  year, 
but  in  spite  of  my  heavy  losses  in  connection  with  the  Oxford 
Academy,  I  have  been  very  successful  in  many  real-estate  deals, 
and  am  not  more  than  $30,000  behind. 

Mr.  John  F.  Waggaman,  an  enterprising  citizen,  interested  Mr. 
J.  D.  Brown  of  New  York  in  building  a  riding  academy.  I  at 
once  joined  in  with  them  and  took  an  active  part,  helping  to  or- 
ganize a  club  composed  mostly  of  high  officials  and  some  of  the 
best  citizens  of  the  District.  After  obtaining  a  large  number  of 
signatures,  we  gave  concerts  with  music,  and  the  building  was 
crowded  with  invited  guests,  as  it  was  one  of  the  most  select  clubs 
ever  organized  in  this  city.  We  gave  fox-hunts,  and  many  ladies 
and  gentlemen  had  an  opportunity  to  learn  to  ride  horseback  who 
never  would  have  enjoyed  such  a  healthy  treat  had  it  not  been  for 
Mr.  Waggaman. 


WASHINGTON  RISING  AGABEMY 


YEARLY  SUBSCRIPTIONS,  $100  EAGH. 


ioformins;  the    Lady  and  Gentlemen    Equestrians  of  Washington   that 
the  Washington   Riding  Academy 


I   take  plea 

Certificates  for  those  desiring    to    become    Yearly    Members  of 

are  now  ready.  Intending  that  the  patronage  of  the  Academy  shall  be  select  in  every  sense, 
the  number  of  yearly  subscriptions  will  necessarily  be  limited.  I  therefore  solicit  signatures  to 
this  List  in  order  that  1  may  fill  up  and  vansmit  Certificates  at  a^n  early  date. 

At  the  nominal  cost  of  $100  Yearly  Subscribers  will  be  entitled  not  only  to  use  Ring  at 
all  times,  except  on  Private  Club  nights,  but  also  to  free  admission  to  Hall.  Reception  Rooms. 
Tournaments  and  all  Exhibitions  of  Equestrianism  hcjd  during  term  of  subscription. 

The  proprietor  wishes  to  be  distinctly  understood  as  guaranteeing  full  satisfaction  on 
.. pcning  of  Academy  to  those  who  become  Vearly  Members  or  he  will  cheerfully  refund  the  price 
of  subscription  on  application. 

»i;h  every  requisite  conducive  to  innoo-iu  enjoyment  and  healthy  exercise,  ,md  the  proprietor 
fully  expects  that  his  efforts  will  me«  wy.li  a  hearty  approval  from  elite  circles  in  Washington" 

TEMPORARY     OFFICE:  Rl  «»t<   H  '    LM  J         D         BROWN.       PROPRIETOR. 

CARE  6F  J.  F.  WAGGAMAN. 

1003  F  STREET,  N.  W 


/7J     3  SI 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 

January  2,  1888. 

Sat  up  quite  late  last  evening  making  out  checks  and  closing  up 
my  last  year's  accounts,  and  at  10  o'clock  this  A.  M.  reported  at 
the  War  Department  in  full-dress  uniform  and  marched  to  the 
President's  mansion  under  the  command  of  Generals  Sheridan 
and  Drum.  The  President  and  Mrs.  Cleveland,  Mrs.  Whitney  and 
the  Fairchilds  greeted  me  very  pleasantly. 

January  27,  1888. 

After  leaving  Senator  Stanford's  last  evening  I  called  on  Sen- 
ators Evarts  and  McPherson,  with  whom  I  am  interested  in  large 
business  transactions. 

February  9,  1888. 

Attended  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Soule's  reception  last  evening,  which 
was  one  of  the  best  and  most  elaborate  I  have  attended  for  years. 
There  must  have  been  at  least  500  persons  present  during  the 
evening.  Saw  Judge  W^illoughby  today,  who  agreed  to  see  the 
President  and  Colonel  Lament  in  regard  to  the  purchase  of  the 
Green  property,  which  Mr.  George  Green  failed  to  pay  the  com- 
mission on.  Col.  Daniel  Lamont  agreed  to  fix  a  day  when  he 
would  make  a  statement  to  go  before  the  court. 

.  February  10,  1888. 

Attended  the  President's  reception  last  evening,  after  which  I 
joined  a  party  of  friends  at  Chamberlin's.  Among  them  were  Mr. 
Oith  of  Indiana,  Lieutenant  Steadman,  Col.  Archie  Bliss  and 
some  eight  or  ten  others. 

April  28,  1888. 

Mr.  Wormley  declined  the  offer  of  $20,000  for  his  two  places. 
Mrs.  Chaplain  Van  Wyck  offered  $9500  cash  for  one  of  them. 

April  30,  1888. 

Senator  C.  J.  Faulkner  spent  last  evening  at  my  house  and 
I  greatly  enjoyed  his  visit.  After  returning  home  with  him,  I 
had  some  of  his  best  old  brand,  and  did  not  bid  him  good-night 
until  after  12  o'clock. 


576 

May  i,  1888. 

Not  being  able  to  get  Mr.  Wormley  to  accept  $9500  for  his  ten 
acres,  I  finally  induced  Mrs.  Van  Wyck  to  advance  $500  more, 
and  we  closed  the  transaction  for  $10,000  cash. 

St.  Louis,  Mo.,  June  3,  1888. 

Having  arranged  to  go  to  the  National  Convention,  am  now 
here.  We  all  got  up  at  sunrise  at  the  Grand  Hotel,  Indianapolis, 
Ind.,  where  we  had  a  good  breakfast.  Called  on  Mrs.  Vice-Presi- 
dent  Hendricks,  who  lives  in  a  good,  substantial,  old-fashioned 
red-brick  square  house  on  a  corner  only  four  blocks  from  the  hotel. 
We  were  met  by  a  delegation  from  Virginia  and  marched  up  to 
the  Southern  Hotel,  which  was  crowded. 

Olive  Street,  June  6,  1888. 

After  I  had  registered  at  the  Planter's  yesterday,  A.  W.  Gifford, 
an  old  friend  of  mine  while  in  Texas,  invited  me  to  his  house  as 
his  guest.  I  introduced  Mr.  Gifford  to  Senator  Hearst  today,  who 
looked  at  his  specimens  and  made  him  an  offer  for  his  Mexican 
silver  mine.  I  also  met  Lieutenant  Squire  at  the  Southern  Hotel. 
As  a  large  number  of  tickets  were  presented  to  me  by  Mr.  Wm.  L. 
Scott,  who  had  arways  been  my  staunch  friend,  I  gave  several  to 
Mr.  Gifford  to  attend  the  convention  with  his  friends.  There  was 
great  excitement  at  the  nomination  of  Mr.  Cleveland  today.  The 
whole  house  grew  wild  and  shouted  themselves  hoarse.  As  soon 
as  Chairman  Collins  could  be  heard  the  convention  adjourned 
until  10  this  P.  M. 

June  7,  1888. 

It  was  after  4  o'clock  this  A.M.  before  I  reached  my  room,  as  the 
boys  and  bands  of  music  seemed  to  be  marching  all  night.  Col. 
William  Dickson,  Mr.  Matson,  Colonel  Hart  of  New  York,  Law- 
rence Gardiner  and  myself  were  invited  by  Senator  Hearst  to  join 
him  in  his  private  room,  where  we  had  quite  an  interesting  talk 
and  decided  to  all  stand  by  Senator  Thurman.  Senator  Hearst 
presented  a  large  bandana  handkerchief  to  thousands  today  as 
souvenirs  of  Allen  G.  Thurman's  handkerchief  he  used  so  often 
while  on  the  Senate  floor  in  taking  snuff.  At  6  o'clock  this  A.  M. 
we  all  met  at  Convention  Hall,  and  after  a  lively  scene  nominated 
Mr.  Thurman  for  Vice-President.  Governor  Gray  and  General 
Black  only  had  three  votes.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Gifford  have  enter- 


577 

tained  and  done  everything  possible  to  make  my  visit  pleasant, 
and  I  have  much  enjoyed  their  hospitality. 

Near  Pittsburg,  on  Express  Train,  June  8,  1888. 

This  morning  before  leaving  St.  Louis  Senator  Hearst  and  Mr. 
Conwell  went  to  Mr.  Gifrord's  room,  where  the  Senator  became 
greatly  interested  in  the  many  specimens  and  samples  of  gold  and 
silver  ore  Mr.  Gifford  brought  frcm  his  Mexican  mines,  and  the 
Senator  made  an  offer  of  $450,000  for  a  certain  interest,  which 
Mr.  Gifford  has  taken  under  advisement.  Bade  Judge  Jecko  and 
family  good-bye  and  left  on  8  P.  M.  train. 

Fairfield,  June  18,  1888. 

Called  on  General  Miles  at  the  Ebbitt  House  today,  with  whom 

1  am  interested  in  trying  to  negotiate  a  large  real-estate  transac- 
tion.   I  received  an  invitation  to  attend  the  reunion  oi  the  Society 
of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  to  be  held  at  Gettysburg  July  i, 

2  and  3.    Hon.  George  William  Curtis,  orator,  and  George  Par- 
sons Lothrop,  poet ;  Maj.-Gen.  Daniel  E.  Sickles,  U.  S.  A.,  retired, 
presiding  officer,  and  the  address  of  welcome  by  Gen.  James  A. 
Beaver,  Governor  of  Pennsylvania,  to  be  introduced  by  Gen.  J. 
B.  Gordon,  Governor  of  Georgia,  and  response  to  be  made  by 
Chaplain  James  B.  McCabe  of  Petersburg,  Va.,  to  be  introduced 
by  General  Sickles. 

Gettysburg,  Pa.,  July  2,  1888. 

General  Hooker  and  I  left  Washington  this  A.  M.,  and  we 
reached  here  at  10  o'clock.  WTe  met  General  Sickles,  Governors 
Beaver  and  Curtin  and  many  old  comrades. 

Fairfield,  July  4,  1888. 

After  going  over  all  the  battlefields  at  Gettysburg  yesterday. 
General  Hooker  and  General  King  invited  me  on  the  stand,  where 
they  spoke  to  those  who  had  assembled  around  to  hear  them. 
Left  this  A.  M.  on  8  o'clock  train,  stopping  over  at  Frederick, 
where  I  met  Mr.  Cline  and  some  old  friends,  arriving  here  at  10 
o'clock  this  P.  M. 

August  n,  1888. 

Miss  Katie  Foote,  daughter  of  Captain  Foote,  is  on  a  visit  at 
my  house.  George,  Cecily,  Miss  Foote  and  I  took  a  horseback 
ride  up  through  Bradley's  lane  and  around  by  Bethesda,  Md. 
Attended  General  Sheridan's  funeral  this  afternoon.  He  was 
buried  at  Arlington  Heights  with  military  ceremony. 

37 


57* 


August  12,  1888. 

After   my  return   from   General   Sheridan's   funeral    yesterday 
evening"  1  took  off  my  uniform  and  called  on   Governor  Rusk. 

Then  met  Colonel  Rogers, 
Third  Infantry,  whom  I  had  not 
seen  for  twenty-one  years. 
Ex-Governor  Stoneman  of  Cal- 
ifornia dined  with  me,  and  I 
have  invited  him  to  be  my  guest 
during  his  stay  here. 

August  13,  1888. 
After  dinner  last  evening 
Governor  Stoneman  and  I 
drove  over  to  see  General 
Drum  at  6  o'clock,  and  it  was 
after  12  o'clock  before  we  could 
leave.  Mrs.  Drum  and  daugh- 
ters entertained  us  for  a  short 
time,  and  the  General  and  Gov- 
ernor talked  over  old  times. 
Every  time  we  would  start  to 
go  the  General  would  invite  us 
back  to  sample  his  homemade 

wine,  and  during;  the  conversation  Governor  Stoneman  related 
the  circumstances  of  how  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  came  to  be 
so  named. 

August  15,  1888. 

During  Governor  Stoneman's  stay  here  we  have  fixed  up  a  bill, 
and  Judge  Weed,  his  attorney,  expects  to  get  it  through  Congress, 
making  him  a  Major-General  on  the  retired  list. 

August  24,  1888. 

I  took  General  Stoneman  driving  this  afternoon,  and  we  called 
on  Generals  Wright  and  Townsend,  Surgeon-General  Moore. 
General  Macfeelv  and  the  Secretary  of  War,  who  were  all  pleased 
to  meet  him.  After  this  we  took  a  parting  mint  julep. 

August  30,  1888. 

Saw  Mr.  1  Tufty  about  a  $5000  loan  and  Chaplain  Van  Wyck  and 
wife  in  regard  to  a  real-estate  transaction.  Steve  Jecko  of  Mis- 
souri spent  the  evening  entertaining  us  on  the  piano. 


STONEMAN. 


579 

The  following  letter  with  its  enclosures  will  be  read  with  in- 
terest by  all  who  revere  the  memory  of  the  War  President : 

Washington,  August  28,  1888. 
Maj.  Geo.  A.  Armes: 

My  Dear  Major — I  enclose  copy  of  letter  from  President  Lin- 
coln to  Horace  Greeley,  which,  1  think,  shows  fully  Mr.  Lincoln's 
opinions  on  the  slavery  question. 

If  you  need  anything  else  let  me  know. 

Your  friend, 

MARCUS  J.  WRIGHT. 

Executive  Mansion, 

Washington,  August  22,  1862. 
Hon.  Horace  Greeley: 

Dear  Sir — T  have  just  read  yours  of  the  ipth,  addressed  to  my- 
self through  the  Neiv  York  Tribune.  If  there  be  in  it  any  state- 
ments, or  assumptions  of  fact,  which  I  may  know  to  be  erroneous, 
I  do  not,  now  and  here,  controvert  them.  If  there  be  in  it  any  in- 
ferences which  I  may  believe  to  be  falsely  drawn,  I  do  not,  now 
and  here,  argue  against  them.  If  there  be  perceptible  in  it  an  im- 
patient and  dictatorial  tone,  I  waive  it  in  deference  to  an  old  friend, 
whose  heart  I  have  always  supposed  to  be  right. 

As  to  the  policy  I  "seem  to  be  pursuing,"  as  you  say,  I  have  not 
meant  to  leave  anyone  in  doubt. 

I  would  serve  the  Union.  I  would  serve  it  the  shortest  way  un- 
der the  Constitution.  The  sooner  the  national  authority  can  be 
restored  the  nearer  the  Union  will  be  "the  U^nion  as  it  was."  If 
there  be  those  who  would  not  save  the  Union  unless  they  could 
at  the  same  time  sai'c  slavery,  I  do  not  agree  with  them.  If  there 
be  those  who  would  not  save  the  Union  unless  they  could  at  the 
same  time  destroy  slavery,  I  do  not  agree  with  them.  My  para- 
mount object  in  this  struggle  is  to  save  the  Union,  and  is  not  either 
to  save  or  to  destroy  slavery.  If  I  could  save  the  Union  without 
freeing  any  slaves  I  would  do  it,  and  if  I  could  save  it  by  freeing  all 
the  slaves  T  would  do  it,  and  if  I  could  save  it  by  freeing  some  and 
leaving  others  alone  I  would  also  do  that.  What  I,  do  about  slav- 
ery and  the  colored  race  I  do  because  1  believe  it  helps  to  save  the 
Union,  and  what  I  forbear  I  forbear  because  I  do  not  believe  it 
would  help  to  save  the  Union.  I  shall  do  less  whenever  I  shall  be- 
lieve what  I  am  doing  hurts  the  cause,  and  I  shall  do  more  when- 
ever I  shall  believe  doing  more  will  help  the  cause.  I  shall  try  to 
correct  errors  when  shown  to  be  errors,  and  I  shall  adopt  new 
views  so  fast  as  they  appear  to  be  true  views, 


58o 

I  have  here  stated  my  purpose  according  to  my  views  of  official 
duty,  and  I  intend  no  modifications  of  my  oft-repeated  personal 
wish  that  all  men  everywhere  could  be  free. 

Yours, 

A.  LINCOLN. 

September  23,   1888. 

Took  General  Black  driving,  and  then  called  on  Colonel  Dor- 
sty,  near  the  Hamilton  House,  who  drove  with  me  to  Mr.  Bryant's 
at  Four  Corners,  where  we  took  tea  and  spent  the  evening.  Mr. 
Bryant,  who  was  formerly  a  partner  of  Horace  Greeley  and  a  great 
literary  man,  has  retired  to  his  beautiful  home,  where  he  is  sur- 
rounded with  the  finest  library  in  this  section. 

September  28,  1888. 

Hitched  up  my  four-in-hand  and  park  phaeton  and  invited  Con- 
gressman Dorsey  of  Nebraska,  Baker  of  New  York  and  Rockwell 
of  Massachusetts  to  drive  with  me  over  in  Virginia.  We  at- 
tended Buffalo  Bill's  show.  My  family  went  over  in  two  other 
vehicles.  Cody  (Buffalo  Bill)  was  very  glad  to  see  us,  and  en- 
tertained us  after  the  show. 


My  Four-in-Hand. 

October  5,  1888. 

Buffalo  Bill  deputized  Mr.  Moxley  to  go  with  me  and  look  at 
property.  I  took  him  over  the  Holmead  section,  offering  it  to 
him  for  $50,000,  and  advising  him  to  close  immediately. 


October  24,  1888. 

Spent  most  of  last  evening  with  Buffalo  Bill  after  his  return 
from  General  Beale's  farm,  where  he  has  arranged  to  have  his 
buffalo  and  stock  wintered.  Colonel  Anderson  is  very  busy  in  get- 
ting up  his  committee,  and  has  added  Hon.  W.  C.  Whitney,  Col- 
onel Soule,  General  Beale,  General  Rosecrans  and  several  other 
names.  Colonel  McLean,  Assistant  Commissioner,  assisted  today 
in  getting  the  case  of  Private  Hector  Gale,  Second  New  York 
Artillery,  made  special. 

Treasury  Department,  Register's  Office, 

October  29,  1888. 
My  Dear  General: 

Maj.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  U.  S.  A.,  (retired)  has  a  matter  of  impor- 
tance to  speak  of  tending  to  make  democratic  votes  for  our  com- 
ing election. 

Probably  you  may  see  a  proper  mode  of  doing  a  personal  act 
of  justice  and  at  the  same  time  inaugurate  a  public  movement  for 
our  country's  good. 

Yours  truly, 

W.  S.  ROSECRANS. 
(ii:.\.  J.  J.  BART  LETT, 

Dept.  Comr.  Pens. 

November  8,  1888. 

Was  up  all  last  night  watching  the  returns  of  the  election,  and 
was  greatly  disappointed  at  n  o'clock  this  A.  M.,  upon  reaching 
my  office,  to  learn  that  Mr.  Cleveland  was  not  re-elected.  It  is 
rumored  that  Senator  Hearst  was  not  true  to  his  party,  which  is 
a  surprise  to  me,  as  he  appeared  to  take  such  a  great  interest  in 
affairs  at  St.  Louis,  although  he  said  then  it  was  a  great  mistake 
to  select  Mr.  Thurman  as  Vice-President  instead  of  General  Black, 
in  whose  interest  I  went  to  St.  Louis,  and  a  great  many  having 
discussed  the  question  before  the  nomination  of  Mr.  Thurman 
appeared  discouraged  at  the  turn  of  affairs.  I  spent  a  great  deal 
of  time  and  money  during  the  past  few  months  in  advocating  the 
re-election  of  Mr.  Cleveland. 

December  7,  1888. 

Had  a  very  interesting  interview  with  President  Cleveland  this 
afternoon  in  relation  to  his  Oak  View  property,  which  he  au- 
thorized me  to  sell  for  $150,000,  and  said  he  would  like  to  see  me 
Lret  the  benefit  of  the  sale. 


5*2 

December  26,  1888. 

Met  Senator  Cullom  at  11  o'clock  today,  when  he  and  his 
daughters  got  in  my  tea-cart  and  we  drove  for  several  hours  look- 
ing at  real  estate.  They  were  very  much  pleased  with  several 
houses  we  examined. 

December  31,  1888. 

1  sat  up  until  12  o'clock  last  evening  to  look  through  the  accounts 
of  the  year  past,  and  I  have  been  busy  today  paying  bills  and  set- 
tling up.  Having  spent  a  great  part  of  my  time  in  politics,  I  have 
neglected  many  matters,  and  have  not  cleared  over  $14,600, 
besides  expenses,  during  the  year. 

1  must  mention  the  misfortunes  of  my  old  friend,  Hon.  Ward  H. 
Lamon,  who  was  confined  to  his  bed  with  terrible  rheumatic  trou- 
bles, causing  him  to  lose  many  of  his  large  claims  that  needed  his 
attention,  and  which,  on  account  of  sickness,  he  was  unable  to 
look  after.  Upon  his  writing  his  circumstances  to  me,  and  upon 
his  request  that  1  purchase  his  pair  of  trotting  messenger  horses, 
although  I  had  eight,  I  accommodated  him  by  paying  $750  cash 
towards  helping  him  out  of  his  financial  troubles,  more  on  account 
of  his  long  friendship  and  many  kindnesses  extended  to  me  during 
my  troubles.  Through  my  intercession  the  Hon.  Charles  B.  Far- 
well,  Congressman  Taylor  and  Judge  Welling  of  the  Court  of 
Claims  succeeded  in  reconciling  Mrs.  Lamon  to  her  husband 
again,  they  having  been  separated  for  a  number  of  months.  They 
at  once  made  arrangements  to  go  abroad  together. 


CHAPTER  XXVII. 

January  n,  1889. 

Reached  my  office  at  10  o'clock  A.  M.,  when  Colonel  Slack 
called,  requesting  me  to  sell  his  carriages,  which  I  immediately 
did  to  Mr.  Marr  for  $635  cash.  Took  Senator  Barnum,  Chair- 
man of  the  Democratic  Committee,  to  look  for  quarters  for  his 
committee. 

January  29,  1889. 

Called  on  Mr.  William  Walter  Phelps  at  the  Normandy,  who 
gave  me  his  square  135  to  sell  at  four  dollars  a  foot  as  a  whole  or 
eight  dollars  for  the  front  portion.  Attended  Mr.  Burrows'  and 
Senator  Stock-bridge's  reception  this  afternoon,  and  Mrs.  Stock- 
bridge  had  quite  a  long  talk  with  me  about  the  Phelps  lot,  which 
she  is  very  anxious  to  purchase. 

February  4,  1889. 

Paid  B.  H.  Warner  $15,750  today,  and  took  up  the  last  mort- 
gage note  on  Tenth  street  property,  which  I  was  glad  to  get  out 
of  his  hands. 

February  7,  1889. 

General  Drum  gave  me  a  note  to  Mr.  Whitthorn  to  get  Gen- 
eral Hunt's  promotion  bill  through,  and  had  quite  a  long  talk  with 
Mr.  Dorsey  about  it. 

February  8,  1889. 

Lieut.  Lucian  Young  of  the  Navy  and  I  called  on  General 
Drum,  who  gave  me  a  dispatch  as  to  the  condition  of  General 
Hunt.  1  went  right  to  the  Capitol,  calling  on  Colonel  Dorsey, 
General  Glover,  General  Spinola  and  Col.  Archie  Bliss.  Got  Mr. 
Dorsey  to  have  the  bill  reported,  but  Killgore  of  Texas  objected, 
thus  killing  the  bill  making  him  Brigadier-General. 


February  10,  i< 

Called  on  General  Killgore  of  Texas  at  his  house,  introducing 
myself,  when  he  asked  what  he  could  do  for  me.  I  said  I  had 
only  called  to  pay  my  respects,  and  invited  him  on  a  drive  around 
the  suburbs.  He  was  very  dignified ;  did  not  ask  me  to  sit  down, 
but  reminded  me  that  he  was  a  Congressman,  who  had  no  time  to 
waste  driving  about.  When  I  informed  him  how  much  my  friends 
in  Texas  thought  of  him  he  was  surprised  to  find  I  knew  anyone 


in  Texas,  and  at  once  invited  me  to  sit  down.  He  finally  asked 
how  long  it  would  take  to  go  on  a  little  drive  over  the  hill,  and  I 
told  him  he  could  come  back  in  a  half  hour  or  an  hour  if  he 
wished.  Concluding  to  accept  my  invitation,  he  got  in  my  buggy, 
and  I  drove  him  to  my  house,  entertaining  him  with  eggnogg  and 
some  good  cigars,  where  he  remained  several  hours.  After  that 
we  called  on  General  Drum  at  his  house.  On  our  way  back  to 
town  he  seemed  enraptured  with  the  beautiful  country  and  glad 
he  had  had  an  opportunity  to  see  the  land  selected  for  the  Na- 
tional Park  and  the  Zoological  Gardens,  stating  that  if  he  had 
known  what  a  beautiful  section  it  was  he  would  not  have  objected 
to  the  passage  of  any  appropriation  for  such  enterprises.  He  also 
agreed  not  to  oppose  the  Hunt  bill  or  the  brevet  bill,  which  I  had 
been  trying  to  have  passed.  When  we  parted  he  assured  me  that 
I  could  rely  upon  his  helping  to  pass  appropriations  which  might 
be  connected  with  the  section  through  which  we  drove. 

February  n,  1889. 

When  I  reached  my  office  at  12  o'clock  news  came  that  General 
Hunt  had  died  at  10  o'clock.  This  was  quite  a  shock  to  me,  as  I 
had  been  one  of  his  best  friends  for  years  in  the  Army  of  the 
1  'otomac. 

February  12,  1889. 

I  called  at  Congressman  Dorsey's  house  and  invited  him  to  ride 
Lo  the  Capitol  with  me,  when  he  at  once  introduced  a  pension  bill 
for  jV'lrs.  General  Hunt,  allowing  her  $100  per  month.  Congress- 
man Archie  Bliss,  with  his  great-heartedness,  took  special  interest 
in  this  bill.  I  also  received  today  an  appointment  as  Colonel  and 
aide  on  the  staff  of  Governor  Beaver,  but  being  so  busy  in  real- 
estate  affairs,  I  am  not  certain  if  I  can  accept  it. 

February  13,   1889. 

Went  to  the  Capitol  today  and  did  my  best  to  get  the  bill  brevet- 
ing officers  for  Indian  campaigns  brought  up,  as  many  of  the 
officers  who  had  been  recommended  for  Indian  fights  had  re- 
quested me  to  get  a  bill  through  authorizing  them  to  be  breveted 
on  the  recommendation  of  their  department  commanders.  Gen- 
eral Cutcheon,  chairman  of  the  Military  Committee  of  the  House, 
has  taken  great  interest  in  assisting  me  in  the  passage  of  the  bill. 


February  14,  1889. 

Saw  Senator  Stockbridge  today,  who  is  hesitating  about  the 
Phelps  lot,  but  his  wife  has  set  her  heart  on  purchasing  it  and 
building  a  large  house  in  the  center  of  the  square.  He  having 
invested  largely  in  California,  hesitates  purchasing  here. 

February  16,  1889. 

After  looking  into  my  affairs,  and  considering  it  my  duty  to 
do  all  I  can  towards  making  the  parade  a  success,  it  being  a  na- 
tional matter,  I  accepted  Governor  Beaver's  appointment  as  an 
aide  on  his  staff  and  reported  at  headquarters.  I  have  been  re- 
quested to  go  to  Alexandria  and  engage  all  the  horses  I  can  for 
the  4th  of  March. 

February  18,  1889. 

Congressman  Dorsey  and  I  went  before  the  committee,  General 
Cutcheon  agreeing  to  bring  up  the  brevet  bill. 

February  20,  1889. 

General  Springer,  Dorsey,  Cutcheon  and  Killgore  took  an  ac- 
tive part  in  trying  to  pass  the  bill  last  night,  but  Campbell  of  New 
York  objected  and  blocked  the  house  from  doing  so. 

February  22,  1889. 

Was  with  Governor  Beaver  and  General  Hastings  today  ar- 
ranging for  my  part  of  the  parade. 

February  24,  1889. 

Saw  General  Axline  of  Ohio  this  morning ;  also  Colonel  Good- 
loe  of  the  United  States  Marine  Corps,  Colonel  McGrew  of  In- 
diana, who  went  to  Alexandria  with  me  to  look  for  horses.  Called 
on  David  Windsor  and  Rose  Catts,  who  have  agreed  to  supply  us 
with  a  number  of  horses. 

February  25,  1889. 

Called  at  the  War  Department  today  and  was  handed  the  deed 
for  lot  25  at  Arlington  Cemetery.  This  afternoon  while  in  the 
headquarter  building  General  Hastings  informed  me  that  my  ap- 
pointment as  an  aide  on  General  Beaver's  staff  was  a  mistake,  and 
under  the  circumstances  I  could  not  ride.  I  immediately  called 
on  Colonel  -  — ,  who  was  making  out  a  list  of  appointments 

for  special  escort  to  the  President,  and  after  stating  the  insult 
offered  by  Hastings,  he  agreed  to  appoint  me  as  one  of  ten  to  meet 
President  Harrison  in  the  Senate  chamber  and  be  with  him  on  the 


platform  during  his  address.  He  also  explained  the  treatment  he 
had  received  by  President  Harrison,  General  Hastings,  Mr.  Brit- 
ton  and  other  officials,  and  appeared  to  feel  very  sore  on  account 
of  it. 

March  i,  1889. 

Called  on  Hon.  Washington  McLean,  who  entertained  me  for 
an  hour  or  two.  Also  called  on  General  Rosecrans  and  congrat- 
ulated him  upon  his  appointment  as  Brigadier-General*  of  the 
United  States  Army,  and  tendered  him  my  blooded  mare  to  ride 
in  the  procession  on  the  4th  of  March.  Had  quite  a  long  talk  with 
Governor  Heaver  this  afternoon,  and  was  grossly  insulted  by  Gen- 
eral Hastings  of  his  staff,  who  apologized  to  me  afterwards. 

March  2,  1889. 

Had  quite  a  talk  with  Senator  Windom  and  Senator  Garland 
this  afternoon.  Having  been  refused  an  appointment  as  notary- 
public,  1  called  on  Senator  McPherson,  who  wrote  a  note 
of  recommendation,  saying:  "My  Dear  Garland:  Please 
appoint  Colonel  Armes  notary-public,  and  oblige,  yours  truly." 
I  handed  this  to  Mr.  Garland,  and  he  at  once  had  an  appointment 
made  out,  which  I  took  to  Colonel  Pruden,  who  had  Mr.  Cleveland 
sign  it  at  once.  The  whole  transaction  was  carried  through 
within  one  hour  from  the  time  I  obtained  Senator  McPherson' s 
note. 

March  3,  1889. 

Yesterday  afternoon  I  took  a  note  from  General  Rosecrans  to 
Mr.  Randall  with  the  request  that  he  call  up  Mrs.  General  Hunt's 
bill,  which  he  agreed  to  do  at  once. 

March  4,  1889. 

Upon  reaching  the  Capitol  at  n  o'clock  A.  M.  I  was  admitted 
into  the  Senate  chamber  and  went  with  the  President  and  Sen- 
ators to  the  platform,  remaining  until  he  finished  his  address, 
after  which  I  mounted  my  horse  with  the  rest  of  the  escort.  While 
riding  by  the  carriage  of  Vice- President  Morton,  Colonel  Gibson 
and  Captain  Bourke  of  Governor  Beaver's  staff  charged  upon  me 
like  two  drunken  loafers,  ordering  me  off  the  avenue.  My  first 
impulse  was  to  shoot  them  both,  but  considering  the  disturbance 
it  would  raise,  I  submitted  and  left  the  parade.  I  then  went  to 
the  War  Department  with  some  ladies  and  witnessed  the  proces- 
sion, after  which  I  was  invited  to  lunch  with  General  Smith. 


5*7 


The  Assault. 


March  5,  ii 

Last  evening  I  tried  to  find  Governor  Beaver,  but  failed,  as  he 
had  gone  to  Harrisbtirg,  and  I  at  once  sent  him  a  note  demanding 
an  apology  and  explanation  of  his  treatment  on  the  4th  of  March. 

March  9,  1889. 

Preferred  charges  against  Colonel  Gibson  and  Captain  Bourke 
and  sent  them  in  to  the  Adjutant-General ;  also  got  out  a  warrant 
of  arrest  for  Captain  Bourke  for  my  treatment  on  the  4th  of  March. 

March  11,  1889. 

While  talking  with  General  Drum  at  the  War  Department 
today  he  informed  me  that  Colonel  Gibson  and  Captain  Bourke 
had  preferred  charges  against  me,  and  that  I  would  soon  be  fur- 
nished a  copy  of  them.  Last  evening  I  called  on  Colonel  West 
of  the  Washington  Post,  giving  him  a  copy  of  the  charges  I  had 
prefered  against  Gibson  and  Bourke,  and  this  morning  quite  an 
interesting  article  appeared. 

March  14,  1889. 

Took  Senator  and  Mrs.  McMillan  of  Michigan  to  see  Senator 
Van  Wyck's  house  this  evening.  They  were  very  much  pleased 


588 

with  it,  and  offered  $15,000  for  a  lease  of  three  years.  Called  at 
the  Evening  Star  and  Critic  offices  today,  and  they  published  one 
of  my  letters  to  Governor  Beaver  in  relation  to  the  Gibson  and 
Bourke  matter.  Saw  Mr.  Gait,  who  gave  me  his  house  on  Ver- 
mont avenue  to  sell  at  $32,  ooo. 

March  26,  1889. 

Colonel  Henderson  of  the  Navy  gave  me  his  Woodley  property 
to  sell,  or  to  lease  at  $2000  a  year.  I  also  took  Senator  Dolph  over 
the  Van  Wyck  house,  with  which  he  is  very  much  pleased.  Gen- 
eral Clarkson  and  wife  invited  me  to  dine  with  them  at  Wormley's 
this  afternoon,  after  which  I  took  them  through  the  Van  Wyck 
house. 

March  27,  1889. 

Had  quite  a  talk  with  John  R.  McLean  in  regard  to  the  Wood- 
ley  property.  While  in  the  Riggs  House  this  afternoon  talking 
with  Lieutenant  Young  of  the  Navy,  Colonel  Smith  and  Mr. 
Prime,  I  noticed  Governor  Beaver  shaking  hands  with  several  of 
his  comrades  in  the  lobby,  and  upon  his  discovering  me  he  ex- 
cused himself  from  his  friends  and  came  over  and  shook  hands. 
After  introducing  him  to  Lieutenant  Young  and  my  friends  I 
asked  him  if  he  had  received  my  note  demanding  an  apology.  He 
said  he  had,  but  proposed  to  let  the  matter  drop,  as  it  had  passed. 
I  reminded  him  that  it  was  too  serious  a  matter  to  let  drop,  when 
he  explained  he  knew  nothing  about  the  affair  that  happened  on 
the  4th  of  March,  and  that  everything  was  done  by  his  Adjutant- 
General,  Hastings.  I  suggested  that  he  put  that  in  writing  at 
once  in  order  that  I  could  publish  the  explanation  over  his  signa- 
ture, when  he  remarked  he  had  to  sustain  his  Adjutant-General. 
I  told  him  that  it  was  very  singular  that  I  should  suffer  an  insult 
and  that  he  should  sustain  a  drunken  loafer  in  an  ungentlemanly 
act,  and  that  I  did  not  propose  to  let  the  matter  drop,  and  he  then 
asked  me  what  I  proposed  to  do  about  it.  I  reminded  him  of  the 
fact  that  there  is  a  great  difference  between  our  positions,  he  being 
the  Governor  of  a  great  State  and  I  an  officer  on  the  retired  list, 
and  that  that  prevented  me  from  acting  as  I  might  otherwise.  He 
at  once  informed  me  he  would  throw  off  his  position  as  Governor 
of  the  State  of  Pennsylvania  while  in  Washington  ana  put  himself 
down  on  the  same  platform  with  me,  and  that  I  could  do  my 
damnedest,  which  I  resented.  One  of  his  comrades  threw  his 


Resenting  Gen.  Beaver's  Insult. 

arms  around  him  and  took  him  out  in  his  carriage  on  a  drive  to 
the  Soldiers'  Home.  Another  ex-soldier  threw  his  arms  around 
me,  when  I  reminded  him  that  the  matter  was  all  over. 

March  29,  1889. 

Had  quite  a  long  conversation  with  Colonel  Carson  of  the  Phila- 
delphia Ledger,  who  wrote  a  nice  letter  in  reply  to  Governor 
Beaver's  statement,  which  T  took  to  the  Associated  Press  and  it 
was  sent  off. 

March  30,  1889. 

Had  a  long  talk  with  Col.  Beriah  Wilkins  of  the  Washington 
Post,  who  assures  me  he  is  a  friend  and  will  publish  my  version  of 
the  Beaver  matter. 

April  i,  1889. 

Found  a  long"  letter  from  Colonel  Lawton,  Inspector-General 
of  the  United  States  Army  (since  killed  in  the  Philippines),  also 
his  card.  T  remained  in  my  office  several  hours  working  on  my 
papers,  and  during  the  afternoon  he  called  again,  and  we  had 


590 

quite  a  pleasant  chat.  He  told  me  he  had  orders  to  prefer  charges 
against  me  and  wished  I  would  come  to  his  office  to  see  what  de- 
fense it  was  necessary  to  make. 

April  8,  1889. 

At  10  o'clock  this  A.M.  Major  Schwan, Adjutant-General  of  the 
Department,  called,  at  my  office  and  placed  me  in  arrest,  giving 
me  a  copy  of  the  charges  and  ordering  me  to  appear  for  trial  in 
i\vo  days.  The  limits  assigned  were  those  of  the  District. 

April  9,  1889. 

Called  on  Judges  Shcllabarger  and  Wilson  in  regard  to  defend- 
ing me  before  the  court,  which  they  were  unable  to  do.  I  then 
saw  Lieutenant  Lemly  of  the  Artillery,  who  agreed  to  assist  me  if 
it  were  possible. 

April  TO,  1889. 

I  appeared  before  the  court  at  10  o'clock  this  A.  M.,  and  my 
first  intention  was  to  object  to  all  the  members,  as  T  had  learned 
from  very  good  authority  that  Capt.  J.  W.  Clous  was  one  of  the 
principals  in  getting  it  organized  and  selecting  the  members  for 
the  purpose  of  having  me  dismissed  from  the  service.  Not  having 
any  counsel  present,  I  declined  to  plead  to  the  charges  until  a 
counsel  was  assigned,  and  Capt.  Thomas  T.  Knox.  First  Cavalry, 
the  junior  member  of  the  court,  was  relieved  and  assigned  as  my 
counsel.  Mr.  Wheeler  Hubbell  volunteered  to  assist.  Captain 
Knox's  defense  of  me  was  of  the  highest  order. 

April  ii,  i88(). 

T  appeared  before  the  court  at  10  o'clock  this  A.M.  and  pleaded 
not  guilty,  and  objected  to  being  tried  upon  the  ground  that  the 
court  had  the  cart  before  the  horse ;  that  Colonel  Gibson  and  Cap- 
tain Bourke  were  the  proper  officers  who  should  be  brought  be- 
fore the  court  instead  of  myself,  as  I  had  preferred  serious  charges 
against  them  before  charges  were  made  against  me.  Mr.  Hubbell 
made  a  very  interesting  little  speech,  and  the  court  proceeded  to 
mv  trial. 


591 


The  Beaver  Court-Martial. 

April  22,  i! 

T  have  been  before  the  court  with  witnesses,  and  have  made 
quite  a  strong  case,  and  if  I  am  found  guilty  it  will  be  on  account  of 
their  prejudice  and  the  fact  that  their  minds  were  made  up  before 
they  were  detailed  on  the  court,  as  there  is  no  evidence  that  would 
justify  such  conclusion. 

April  25,  1889. 

I  was  in  my  place  before  the  court  at  10  o'clock  this  A.  M.,  when 
the  Judge-Advocate  read  the  testimony  of  the  day  before,  and  at 
1 2. 20  the  court  closed.  T  was  notified  that  I  would  not  have  to 
appear  before  it  again.  I  was  tried  on  the  charge  of  "conduct  un- 
becoming an  officer  and  gentleman,"  being  found  guilty  and  sen- 
tenced to  dismissal  as  already  noted,  but  the  sentence  was  com- 
muted by  the  President.  Afterwards,  talking  with  General  Drum, 
he  informed  me  that  he  would  let  me  know  the  sentence  of  the 
court  at  the  first  opportunity. 

April  27,  1889.    • 

General  Drum  failing  to  keep  his  word  in  furnishing  me  with  the 
sentence  of  the  court,  I  called  on  Colonel  Swords  of  the  Treasury 
Department,  special  friend  of  the  President,  who  went  to  the 
White  House  to  learn  what  he  could.  Colonel  Halford  told  him 
he  had  not  been  able  to  find  out  himself,  but  I  am  satisfied  it  was 
dismissal  from  the  service.  As  was  plainly  seen,  the  court  was 
specially  picked  out  for  that  purpose. 


592 

April  20,  1889. 

Among  the  many  witnesses  in  my  defense  was  Governor  Wood- 
bury  of  Vermont,  who  came  on  and  did  all  he  could  in  my  behalf. 

Burlington,  Vt.,  April  n,  1889. 
Dear  Major: 

Your  favor  of  the  8th  inst.  is  received  and  noted.  Your  trouble 
lias  caused  me  much  pain.  I  hardly  know  what  to  say  about 
it.  *  *  * 

You  speak  about  my  influence  with  Secretary  Procter.  I  fear 
it  would  not  be  much.  *  *  * 

But  I  am  willing  to  help  you  if  I  can.     If  I  should  be  regularly 
summoned  by  the  court  I  could  appear. 
Please  remember  me  to  Mrs.  Armes. 
Yours,  very  truly, 

(Signed)         U.  A.  WOODBURY, 

Captain,  etc. 

By  the  Judge-Advocate: 

Q.     State  your  name  and  residence. 

A.     U.  A.  Woodbury,  Burlington,  Vt. 

O.     Do  you  recognize  the  accused? 

A.     I  do". 

Q.     As  whom? 

A.     As  Geo.  A.  Armes. 

By  Mr.  Hubbell: 

O.     Will  you  please  explain  why  you  are  called  Governor? 

A.  I  am  the  present  Lieutenant-Governor  of  Vermont,  not 
Governor. 

Q.  Will  you  state  how  long  a  time  you  have  known  the  ac- 
cused ? 

A.     Something  over  twenty-five  years. 

O.  What  is  and  has  been  his  character  as  a  gentleman  and  as 
a  man? 

A.  Perhaps  I  could  better  answer  that  by  stating  how  I  be- 
came acquainted  with  him  and  what  my  relations  with  him  were. 

Q.     You  can  explain  that  in  your  answer. 

A.  In  the  fall  of  1863  I  was  on  duty  in  New  Hampshire  during 
the  draft  as  a  veteran  in  the  reserve  corps,  having  been  transferred 
to  that  branch  after  having  lost  my  arm,  and  Mr.  Armes  was  as- 
signed to  my  company  as  Second  Lieutenant.  *  *  *  He  re- 
mained something  over  a  year.  At  that  time  he  was  a  young  man 
of  most  excellent  character,  of  good  temper,  attended  to  his  duties, 
and  rather  easily  imposed  upon,  I  used  to  think. 

Q.  Did  you  ever  know  him  to  do  any  dishonorable  act  or 
action? 

A.     I  never  did  while  he  was  with  me. 

Q.     Or  at  any  other  time? 


593 


A.  I  have  never  personally  known  of  his  doing  anything  dis- 
honorable. 

O.  Nor  anything  ungentlemanly  that  would  reflect  on  his 
character  as  an  officer  and  a  gentleman? 

A.  Never  while  with  me.  Nor  have  I  any  personal  knowledge 
of  anything  since. 

May  14,  1889. 

Leased  the  Weaver  house  today  to  Corporal  Tanner,  Com- 
missioner of  Pensions,  for  $1000  a  year. 

June  8,  1889. 

I  learned  today  that  the  sentence  of  the  court  had  been  com- 
muted by  the  President  to  five  years'  suspension,  and  I  not  to  be 
allowed  to  wear  my  uniform  during  the  suspension,  but  my  pay 
was  not  to  be  interfered  with. 

June  26,  1889. 

I  have  been  actively  engaged  in  real-estate  deals  during  the  past 
two  months,  but  at  the  same  time  have  been  at  a  loss  of  not  less 
than  $25,000  on  account  of  not  being  able  to  attend  to  matters  of 
importance  because  of  the  court-martial,  which  took  up  most  of 
my  time.  I  was  in  hopes  of  negotiating  a  deal  with  Secretary 
Proctor  and  Senator  Van  Wyck,  but  the  former  decided  to  take 
the  Parson  house,  corner  of  L  and  Sixteenth  streets. 

June  27,  1889. 

Upon  reaching  my  office  at  1 1  o'clock  this  morning  I  received 

several  communications,  in  addition 
to  a  notice  in  the  Post,  that  one  hun- 
dred  citizens  of  Pittsburg,  Pa.,  had 
V^^  and  forwarded  to  me  a 
gold  medal  in  approval  of  my  re- 
senting the  insult  of  Governor 
Beaver. 

A  beautiful  gold  medal  in  a  satin 
box,  awarded  to  me  on  a  subscrip- 
tion of  $300  by  a  committee  of  one 
hundred  citizens,  was  sent  to  me 
from  Pittsburg,  Pa.;  also  a  set  of 
resolutions  signed  by  the  commit- 
tee. General  Schofield  having  sent 
me  directions  to  return  the  medal  to 
the  donors,  I  had  to  word  my  ac- 
ceptance in  such  a  way  as  to  avoid 
official  action : 


594 

Washington,  D.  C.,  July  5,  1889. 
To  John  K  Blair, 

Treasurer : 

Dear  Sir — Having  received  the  beautiful  gold  medal  donated 
and  sent  to  me  by  100  of  your  citizens,  I  accept  the  same  as  their 
approval  of  the  letter  I  sent  Gen.  James  A.  Beaver  March  15,  1889. 
Being  a  real  estate  broker,  the  Honorable  Secretary  of  War  ex- 
tended my  limits  outside  the  city  of  Washington  to  fifty  miles. 

While  undergoing  my  sentence,  as  commuted  by  the  President, 
this  affords  me  an  opportunity  to  give  some  good  bargains  to 
those  who  apply  to  me  for  houses,  lots  or  farms. 

GEO.  A.  ARMES. 

June  28,  1889. 

Before  reaching  home  last  evening  General  Schofield  sent  one 
of  his  staff  officers  to  find  out  if  I  had  received  the  gold  medal  an- 
nounced as  having  been  presented  to  me  in  the  papers,  and  if  it 
had  been  received,  his  directions  were  to  return  it  to  avoid  another 
court-martial,  as  I  would  not  be  allowed  to  accept  it.  I  sent  him 
my  compliments,  with  information  that  the  gold  medal  had  not  as 
yet  been  received,  but  if  there  were  any  truth  in  the  story,  and  that 
if  it  came  into  my  possession,  I  proposed  to  acept  it,  and  $10,000 
would  not  be  on  inducement  for  me  to  return  it.  I  also  called  on 
the  Adjutant-General,  Kelton,  informing  him  that  my  business 
naturally  called  me  to  other  cities  outside  the  limits  of  fifty  miles 
that  had  been  extended,  and  wanted  to  know  what  the  chances 
were  to  attend  to  my  business  affairs,  when  he  smiled  and  re- 
minded me  of  the  fact  that  I  was  pretty  much  on  the  same  status 
as  an  officer  on  duty  at  a  post,  and  that  whenever  I  desired  to  leave 
the  city  I  would  have  to  make  a  written  appplication  for  the  num- 
ber of  days  T  desired  the  same  as  any  other  officer  on  duty,  which 
satisfied  me  that  my  business  would  not  be  interfered  with  in  case 
of  a  necessity  to  leave  the  city. 

July  19,  1889. 

I  desired  to  go  out  of  the  city,  and  sent  up  a  written  request  for 
sixty  days,  which  General  Kelton  returned  approved  "by  order  of 
the  Secretary  of  WTar."  Took  Surgeon-General  Moore  through 
the  Alley  house,  for  which  he  offered  me  $30,000  cash, 


595 

Sylvan  Beach,  N.  Y.,  August  13,  __,. 

Arrived  a  4  o'clock  this  A.M.  and  took  rooms  at  the  hotel  near 

the  Gale  cottage.    Met  Mr.  Gale  and  wife  at  3  P.  M.,  who  were 

glad  to  see  us  and  gave  us  a 
good  dinner.  They  invited  Us 
to  remain  as  their  guests.  The 
regiment  assembled  at  the  fail- 
grounds,  and  I  met  many  of  my 
old  comrades,  among  them 
Major  Birdsell,  Captain 
Rounds,  Captain  Porter,  Ser- 
ge«nt  Miller,  Frank  Earl  and 
others.  We  have  had  a  grand 
lime  fishing  in  the  lake  and 
boat-riding. 

October  14,  i88c>. 
I  have  been  very  busy  for  the 
past  four  or  five  days  enter- 
taining and  driving  the 
Knights  Templar  to  the 
Soldiers'  Home,  Arlington 
Heights  and  all  places  of  inter- 
est around  the  city.  Have 
made  a  good  many  friends. 

October  18,  1880. 

Invited  Gen.  Philip  St.  George  Cooke  to  drive  to  the  Soldiers' 
Home  and  many  other  places  of  interest,  which  the  old  gentleman 
greatly  enjoyed.  During  our  conversation  he  reminded  me  that 
he  never  regretted  issuing  the  complimentary  order  for  the  cav- 
alry raid  1  made  against  the  Indians  in  1866.  Attended  World's 
Fair  meeting  this  evening. 

October  24,  1889. 

I  returned  to  the  city  last  evening  to  attend  the  banquet  given 
in  honor  of  the  Three  Americas  Exposition,  and  Mr.  Shaffer  of  the 
Star  escorted  me  to  the  table,  where  we  met  Judge  Jerry  Wilson, 
Mr.  Kennedy  and  Col.  Beriah  Wilkins,  and  listened  to  the 
speeches  of  Governor  Biggs  of  Delaware,  Governor  Fleming  of 
Florida  and  several  other  noted  speakers,  including  Commissioner 
Douglass.  Colonel  Staples  did  his  best  to  entertain  us. 


\v.  H  KCT»U  (TALK. 


59" 

December  3,  L 

Most  of  my  time  has  been  engaged  in  trying  to  find  capitalists 
to  purchase  a  tract  of  land  that  I  have  secured  the  prices  of  in  order 
to  get  Connecticut  avenue  extended  to  the  District  line.  I  have 
talked  with  quite  a  number  of  men  of  means  in  New  York,  Boston, 
Chicago  and  Philadelphia,  trying  to  induce  them  to  go  into  the 
enterprise,  and  have  figured  up  the  cost  of  the  land,  the  building 
of  the  road  and  the  stocking  of  it,  including  bridges,  and  it  will 
require  $3,500.000,  but  I  propose  to  persevere  until  I  succeed,  as 
it  will  be  a  very  important  and  beneficial  step  for  the  District  and 
city  of  Washington.  I  induced  Mr.  Austin  Herr  to  give  me 
845,000  for  the  Ward  tract  on  Pierce  Mill  road,  he  paying  me 
$10,000.  cash. 

December  26,  1889. 

Took  a  drive  with  Senator  Hearst  this  afternoon,  trying  to  in- 
duce him  to  take  hold  of  my  Connecticut  avenue  project.  He 
gave  me  considerable  encouragement. 

December  31,  1889. 

Judge  Bond  authorized  me  to  sell  his  property  for  $2700.  I  am 
very  busy  this  evening  settling  up  my  accounts  of  the  past  year, 
and  find  that  I  have  done  very  well  financially,  in  spite  of  the  great 
losses  suffered  on  account  of  the  court-martial,  and  am  in  a  fairway 
to  succeed  in  some  large  transactions  next  year  in  spite  of  my  sen- 
tence to  only  fifty  miles  limit. 

The  correspondence  which  elucidates  the  events  of  the  year 
follows  in  chronological  order : 

(From  the  Washington  Post  of  March  13,  1889.) 

MAJOR  ARMES  ox  THE  WARPATH. 
He  Prefers  Formal  Charges  Against  Colonel  Gibson  and  Captain 

Bourke. 

Maj.  George  A.  Armes  early  yesterday  morning  sent  to  Adju- 
tant-General Drum  his  formal  charges  of  conduct  unbecoming 
gentlemen  and  drunkenness  against  Colonel  Gibson  of  the  Third 
Artillery  and  Capt.  John  G.  Bourke,  Third  Cavalry,  mentioned  in 
the  Post  yesterday. 

Major  Armes  said  yesterday  to  the  Post  reporter: 
"I  have  in  my  possession  a  formal  notice  sent  by  Governor 
Beaver  of  my  appointment  as  an  aide  on  his  staff  in  the  inaugural 
parade.  I  acknowledged  the  receipt  of  the  invitation  and  accepted 
it.  When  the  list  was  printed  my  name  was  not  there.  I  called  on 
Governor  Beaver,  who  said  there  was  an  error,  but  that  it  was  too 
late  to  rectify  it.  and  that  I  must  try  and  arrange  to  ride  in  some 
other  portion  of  the  parade. 


597 

"A  higher  official  than  Governor  Beaver  told  me  that  he  would 
arrange  to  give  me  special  duty,  where  I  would  be  near  the  Presi- 
dent, and  that  the  Sergeant-at-Arms  would  have  instructions  to 
admit  me  to  the  Senate  chamber  and  on  the  platform.  Coming 
from  the  Capitol  1  rode  by  the  side  of  Vice-President  Morton  and 
Senator  Cullom,  whom  I  knew  personally.  Everything  went 
nicely  until  Colonel  Gibson  and  Captain  Bourke  both  came  charg- 
ing down  upon  me  like  drunken  men,  and  ordered  me  to  imme- 
diately leave  the  parade.  I  at  once  informed  Colonel  Gibson  that 
1  had  authority  to  be  there. 

"I  swore  out  a  warrant  for  Captain  Bourke  "on  the  5th,  and  the 
next  morning  he  was  taken  to  the  police  court.  I  was  not  notified 
of  the  time,  and  so  failed  to  appear,  and  the  case  was  dismissed  for 
want  of  a  witness.  There  is  nothing  more  for  me  to  say  except 
that  I  will  give  out  the  official  documents  later." 

The  following  is  my  reply  to  Colonel  Lawton  in  relation  to 
charges  being  manufactured  against  me : 

Washington,  D.  C,  April  i,  1889. 
H.  W.  Lawton, 

Lieut. -Col.  and  Inspector,  U.  S.  A. : 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  your  letter 
dated  March  30,  1880,  but  it  was  not  received  by  me  until  noon 
this  morning.  If  you  will  forward  me  a  copy  of  the  charges  that 
have  been  submitted  to  the  War  Department  against  me  I  can 
then  better  judge  -how  to  make  a  reply,  as  I  have  not  been  fur- 
nished a  copy  of  any  charge,  and  have  seen  only  a  few  of  the 
"squibs"  in  the  newspapers.  I  hardly  know  how  to  reply  until  I 
have  something  from  the  War  Department  to  act  upon.  If  there  is 
anything  being  done  at  your  Department  I  think  they  will  develop 
the  feet  that  Colonels  Barr  and  Clous  are  trying  to  use  the  Secre- 
tary of  War  to  settle  officially  an  old  private  difficulty  which  took 
place  some  years  ago. 

Respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Capt.  U.  S.  Cav. 

The  following  is  a  copy  of  letter  of  transmittal,  with  names  of 
members  of  the  court : 

War  Department,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  April  8,  1889. 

Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 

U.  S.  Army  (Retired): 

Sir— The  Secretary  of  War  directs  that  you  report  to  the  Presi- 
dent of  the  General  Court-Martial ,  convened  by  Paragraph  I,  Spe- 


cial  Orders  No.  81,  current  series  from  this  office  (copy  enclosed), 
at  ii  o'clock  A.  M.  on  Thursday,  the  i  ith  inst.,  for  trial.  You  win 
also  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  this  communication. 

The  court  will  hold  its  session  in  Room  No.  254,  War  Depart- 
ment Building. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

J.  C.  KELTON, 
Assistant  Adjutant-General. 

(Court-martial  No.  9.) 

War  Department, 

Washington  City,  April  6,  1889. 

By  direction  of  the  President,  a  General  Court- Martial  is  ap- 
pointed to  meet  in  this  city  at  11  o'clock  on  Thursday,  the  nth 
day  of  April,  1889,  or  as  soon  thereafter  as  practicable,  for  the 
trial  of  such  persons  as  may  be  brought  before  it. 

Detail  for  the  Court — Col.  Richard  I.  Dodge.  Eleventh  Infantry; 
Col.  Edwin  F.  Townsend,  Twelfth  Infantry;  Col.  John  Menden- 
hall,  Second  Artillery;  Capt.  John  G.  Turnbull,  Third  Artillery; 
Capt.  Sanford  C.  Kellogg,  Fifth  Cavalry;  Capt.  John  R.  Myrick, 
Third  Artillery;  Capt.  Greenleaf  A.  Goodale,  Twenty-third  In- 
fantry; Capt.  Lewis  Smith,  Third  Artillery;  Capt.  Frank  W.  Hess, 
Third  Artillery;  Capt.  George  S.  Anderson,  Sixth  Cavalry;  Capt. 
James  Parker,  Fourth  Cavalry;  Capt.  James  O'Hara,  Third  Artil- 
lery; Theo.  Schwan,  Maj.  and  Asst.  Adjt.-Gen.;  Maj.  George  B. 
Davis,  Judge-Advocate  of  the  court. 

REDFIELD  PROCTOR, 
Secretary  of  War. 

The  following  is  a  copy  of  my  letter  to  the  Secretary  of  War 
after  being  placed  in  arrest : 

Washington,  D.  C.,  April  9,  1889. 
Gen.  Redfield  Proctor, 

Secretary  of  War, 
(Through  the  Adjutant-General) : 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  acknowledge  the  receipt  of  an  order 
at  4  o'clock  yesterday  P.  M.  placing  me  in  arrest  and  assigning 
my  limits  within  the  District  of  Columbia ;  also  a  set  of  charges 
and  specifications  signed  by  H.  W.  Lawton,  Lieutenant-Colonel 
and  Inspector-General  U.  S.  A.,  which  are  false,  malicious  and 
manufactured  by  a  set  of  conspirators  for  the  purpose  of  bringing 
me  in  bad  repute  and  prejudice  the  minds  of  the  public  still  further 
against  me,  and  thus  make  it  appear  that  I  was  wrong  and  my 
accusers  right  in  their  disgraceful  action  under  cover  of  the  United 
States  uniform  they  wore.  I  was  an  officer  in  the  best  standing  in 
1870,  when  a  set  of  false  and  malicious  charges  were  preferred 
against  me  by  two  officers  of  the  lowest  character,  and  was  dis- 


599 

missed  by  a  court  composed  of  five  officers,  friends  of  the  two 
Army  officers  whom  1  had  preferred  charges  against  for  stealing 
and  selling  Government  horses  and  mules.  General  Schofield, 
then  the  Department  Commander,  who  ordered  the  court  for  the 
occasion,  approved  of  said  court's  proceeding,  and  I  went  out  of 
the  Army  for  the  time  being  disgraced.  Judge  Luke  Poland  of 
Vermont,  a  special  friend  of  my  father's,  and  who  had  known  me 
from  boyhood,  took  an  interest  in  the  matter,  and  the  two  officers 
were  brought  to  trial,  convicted,  fined,  cashiered  and  sentenced 
to  the  penitentiary  for  a  term  of  years.  Those  two  officers  were 
very  popular  and  had  many  friends  high  up  in  authority,  who  have 
naturally  been  watching  an  opportunity  to  find  something  they 
could  take  advantage  of  that  would  force  me  out  of  the  service. 
My  case  was  thoroughly  investigated  by  an  act  of  Congress,  and 
a  bill  passed  vindicating  and  restoring  me  without  loss  of  rank 
to  my  proper  position  in  the  Army;  but  since  my  return  Col.  B. 
H.  Grierson,  Tenth  Cavalry;  Lieut.-Col.  M.  M.  Blunt,  Lieut.-Col. 
James  F.  Wade,  Gen.  C.  C.  Augur,  Maj.  Lewis  Merrill,  Maj.  J. 
W.  Clous,  Col.  Thomas  M.  Vincent,  Assistant  Adjutant-General, 
J  believe,  have  been  watching  every  opportunity  to  injure  me  in 
some  underhand  mariner.  I  was  legally  appointed  on  the  staff  of 
Gen.  James  A.  Beaver,  and  accepted  the  same  in  good  faith,  and 
his  Chief  of  Staff,  I  learned  by  good  authority,  struck  my  name 
off  of  the  list  upon  the  representation  of  some  unworthy  character 
that  I  ought  not  to  be  allowed  the  honor  of  associating  with  those 
selected  to  ride  with  the  Governor.  At  the  last  moment  I  was  told 
by  Governor  Beaver  it  was  too  late  to  have  it  corrected,  as  his 
commissions  had  all  been  issued,  but  he  would  forward  me  one 
upon  his  return  to  Harrisburg,  and  that  I  had  best  try  and  ride 
with  General  Barnum  or  somewhere  else  in  the  line.  Upon  re- 
porting those  facts  to  a  prominent  gentleman  he  informed  me  that 
I  should  not  be  ignored  in  any  such  manner,  but  could  have  a 
position  with  several  other  trusty  gentlemen  who  had  specially 
been  assigned  to  duty  for  the  protection  of  the  President,  and  that 
would  give  me  an  opportunity  to  be  with  him  at  the  Capitol  on 
the  stand  while  he  was  there.  Immediately  after  the  inaugural 
I  mounted  my  horse,  starting  to  ride  up  the  avenue  by  the  side  of 
the  Vice-President  and  Senator  Cullom,  both  gentlemen  knowing 
me  personally.  While  proceeding  quietly  up  the  avenue  Colonel 
Gibson  of  the  Third  Artillery  and  Captain  Bourke,  Third  Cav- 
alry, charged  up  to  me  on  horseback,  grasping  the  rein  of  my 
bridle,  saying  in  a  loud  and  insulting  manner:  "Get  off  this 
parade!''  I  remarked,  "Colonel  Gibson,  I  am  here  under  proper 
authority,  and  have  a  perfect  right  to  be  where  I  am,"  or  words 
to  that  'effect  He  then  said,  "Bourke,  put  that  man  off  the 
avenue.  It  is  General  Beaver's  orders  that  I  put  him  off,"  both 
calling  the  police,  who  came  up,  grasped  my  bridle  rein,  and 


boo 

IJourke  and  Gibson  left.  I  asked  the  police  where  their  Lieu- 
tenant was,  stating  that  those  officers  had  no  authority  to  order 
me  arrested,  and  immediately  let  go,  and  the  Lieutenant  informed 
me  that  I  had  the  right  to  go  up  the  avenue  the  same  as  any  other 
officer,  which  I  did,  and  placed  my  family  in  the  War  Depart- 
ment, where  I  had  passes  for  them,  they  having  been  out  in  a  car- 
nage during  the  time  I  was  at  the  Capitol.  The  next  day  I  got 
out  a  warrant  for  Captain  IJourke,  but  was  not  notified  to  appear 
as  a  witness  at  the  time  he  was  arrested,  and  he  was  immediately 
released.  All  kinds  of  attacks  have  been  made  on  my  character 
as  an  officer  and  a  gentleman  through  the  instrumentality  of  some 
Army  officer,  whose  name  the  reporters  decline  to  furnish.  Col- 
onel Gibson  having  made  unreliable  statements  in  the  Post,  I 
corrected  them,  which  seemed  to  still  increase  the  newspaper  con- 
troversy. Failing  to  receive  a  reply  to  my  letter  to  Governor 
Beaver  demanding  an  apology,  and  having  been  informed  that 
charges  had  been  filed  in  the  War  Department,  I  considered  it 
my  duty  to  make  charges  against  the  two  officers  who  were  guilty 
of  making  the  disturbance  in  question,  and  also  insisted  on  Gov- 
ernor Beaver  making  an  apology  or  explanation  in  regard  to  his 
giving  an  order  to  General  Gibson  putting  me  off  the  parade, 
which  he  denied  having  given,  but  declined  to  put  it  in  writing, 
when  we  had  a  personal  quarrel  with  each  other,  accounts  of 
which  have  been  greatly  exaggerated. 

I  mention  my  personal  enemies  by  name  in  order  that  it  may 
not  appear  that  J  am  trying  to  attack  the  whole  Army.  An  inves- 
tigation of  the  characters  of  the  above-named  officers  will  con- 
vince any  just  man  that  I  have  been  persecuted  by  them  singly 
and  collectively  for  years. 

If  necessary  and  you  desire  it  I  can  go  into  further  details  show- 
ing the  character  and  disgraceful  acts  of  the  above-named 
officers. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Capt.  U.  S.  Army  (ret.). 

Having  been  informed  that  Capt.  J.  W.  Clous  was  one  of  the 
principals  in  trying  to  have  me  brought  to  trial  on  account  of 
resenting  an  insult  from  Governor  Beaver,  I  sent  the  following  to 
General  Drum,  who  returned  it  with  endorsement : 

Washington,  D.  C.,  April  16,  1889. 
Gen.  R.  C.  Drum, 

Adjutant-General  U.  S.  A. : 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  request  that  you  inform  me  if  it  is  true 
that  Maj.  J.  W.  Clous  furnished  the  information  or  any  portion 


6oi 

of  the  enclosed  matter  to  any  newspaper  or  to  anyone  who  caused 
said  article  to  be  Written. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)          GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Capt.  U.  S.  A. 

War  Department,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 

April  17,  1889. 

Respectfully  returned  to  Captain  Armes,  whose  request  being 
in  respect  to  a  personal  matter  and  made  wholly  upon  conjecture, 
the  Adjutant-General  declines  complying  therewith.  His  recourse 
in  this  matter  is  to  address  his  inquiry  to  Major  Clous  or  to  the 
editor  of  the  paper  which  made  the  publication  to  which  he  ap- 
pears to  object. 

(Signed)         J.  C.  KELTON, 

Asst.  Adjt.-Gen. 

The  information  published  in  regard  to  your  trials  appears  in 
General  Orders,  which  are  always  accessible  to  the  public. 

The  following  is  from  Senator  Cullom  : 

United  States  Senate, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  May  20,  1889. 
To  whom  it  may  concern : 

I  have  known  Col.  G.  A.  Armes  of  the  U.  S.  A.  for  several  years. 
I  saw  him  on  the  occasion  of  the  inauguration  of  the  President 
on  the  4th  of  March  last.  He  rode  near  the  carriage  of  the  Vice- 
President  as  the  procession  came  from  the  Capitol  to  the  White 
House.  On  the  route  I  (being  in  the  carriage  with  the  Vice- 
president  as  one  of  the  Senate  Committee  of  Arrangements) 
spoke  to  him,  and  he  acknowledged  by  military  salute.  I  did  not 
observe  any  impropriety  on  his  part  whatever  on  the  occasion. 

Respectfully, 

(Signed)          S.  M.  CULLOM. 

I  applied  to  the  Secretary  of  War  for  permission  to  go  to  Mexico 
on  business  and  received  the  following  response  : 

(Extension  of  limits  to  go  into  Mexico.) 
War  Department,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  August  14,  1889. 
Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 

U.  S.  A.  (retired)  : 

Sir — Referring  to  your  request  of  the  8th  inst.  for  extension  of 
limits  of  your  confinement,  I  have  the  honor  to  inform  you  that  by 
authority  of  the  Secretary  of  War  permission  is  granted  you  to 
visit  Laredo,  Texas,  and,  if  you  deem  it  necessary,  the  republic 


6O2 

of  Mexico,  within  the  period  fixed  by  letter  of  the  19th  ult.  from 
this  office,  viz.,  two  months,  commencing-  August  I. 
Very  respectfully, 

(Signed)         J.  C.  KELTON, 

Adj  utant-  General . 

September,  1889. 

Here  1  may  mention  the  sly  performance  of  General  Schoneld 
in  order  to  get  even  with  me  if  possible  in  some  way.  Having 
failed  in  his  endeavor  to  sustain  the  charges,  he  ordered  charges 
preferred  against  me  for  retaining  the  medal  presented  by  the  ona 
hundred  citizens  of  Pennsylvania,  he  issued  an  order  appointing 
a  board  to  question  my  sanity,  with  instructions  for  me  to  be  hus- 
tled into  a  closed  carriage  and  sent  to  St.  Elizabeth's  Asylum. 
Having  been  informed  by  a  special  friend  in  the  Department  of 
this  secret  order  of  General  Schofield's,  I  invited  a  correspondent 
of  the  press. to  accompany  me  to  his  house  between  8  and  9 
o'clock,  where  I  asked  the  butler  if  the  General  was  in.  Being  in- 
formed that  he  was  upstairs,  I  declined  to  send  my  card  or  name, 
but  gave  directions  to  tell  the  General  two  gentlemen  wished  to 
see  him,  and  we  were  immediately  ushered  into  the  parlor.  When 
the  General  appeared  he  seemed  thunderstruck  at  meeting  me,  and 
1  at  once  introduced  him  to  my  friend,  whom  he  asked  to  be 
seated.  I  declined  to  sit  down,  but  asked  the  General  if  he  knew 
anything  about  the  order  being  issued  for  me  to  appear  before  a 
medical  board,  when  he  desired  to  know  upon  what  grounds  I 
asked  such  a  question.  I  told  him  1  had  heard  that  an  order  of 
that  kind  had  been  issued.  He  denied  knowing  anything  about 
it,  stating  that  I  ought  to  have  been  in  the  service  long  enough 
to  know  that  a  General  of  the  Army  was  not  aware  of  all  orders 
that  were  issued  at  his  headquarters,  and  denied  all  knowledge  of 
any  such  order.  1  then  informed  him  that  I  had  been  advised  by 
counsel  to  find  out  the  truth  of  such  an  order,  and  if  it  had  been 
issued  to  get  a  warrant  for  General  Schofield  and  have  him  appear 
before  the  court  for  libel.  He  struck  the  table  with  his  fist  and 
flew  into  a  rage,  stating  that  any  lawyer  who  had  given  me  advice 
of  that  kind  was  a  "damned  fool,"  remarking  that  some  person 
must  have  leaked  in  his  office  to  have  given  out  such  information. 
He  then  requested  me  to  call  at  his  office  in  the  morning,  and  he 
would  instruct  the  Adjutant-General  to  withdraw  the  order,  but 
I  declined.  He  then  requested  me  to  make  an  application  in  writ- 


603 

ing  that  the  order  be  withdrawn,  but  I  declined  that  also,  and  re- 
marked that  I  would  appear  before  the  board.  Hereupon  he  fol- 
lowed me  to  the  door,  where  I  bade  him  good  evening.  I  called 
on  Major  Carson,  Dr.  Harrison  and  several  friends,  inviting  them 
to  be  present  at  the  investigation  which  was  to  take  place  at  the 
Medical  Museum  the  next  day.  Upon  arriving  at  my  office  at 
half-past  nine,  ready  to  appear  before  the  board,  a  messenger 
handed  me  an  order  revoking  the  order  for  my  appearance  before 
the  board.  This  transaction  was  published  at  the  time  in  the  news- 
papers. The  following  is  a  copy  of  the  letter  of  transmittal  en- 
closing the  order  convening  the  board,  which  General  Schofield 
took  advantage  of  his  position  to  issue  while  acting  as  Secretary 
of  War,  and  then  upon  my  cross-questioning  him  at  his  house 
denied  all  knowledge  of  the  transaction.  The  orders  speak  for 
themselves : 

War  Department,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  September  13,  1889. 
Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 

U.  S.  A.  (retired) : 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  enclose  herewith  a  copy  of  an  order 
appointing  a  medical  board  to  convene  at  the  Army  Medical 
Museum,  corner  B  and  Seventh  streets,  S.  W.,  this  city,  on  Tues- 
day, September  17,  1889,  at  n  o'clock  A.  M.,  and  to  inform  you 
that  the  Acting  Secretary  of  War  directs  that  you  report  in  person 
to  the  board  on  the  date  specified  for  examination. 
Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

'(Signed)         J.  C.  KELTON, 

Adjutant-General. 
(Special  Orders,  No.  213.) 
Headquarters  of  the  Army,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  September  13,  1889. 

Extract  i.  By  direction  of  the  Acting  Secretary  of  War  a 
board  of  medical  officers,  to  consist  of  Maj.  John  S.  Billings,  Sur- 
geon ;  Maj.  Washington  Matthews,  Surgeon,  is  appointed  to  con- 
vene at  the  Army  Medical  Museum,  corner  of  B  and  Seventh 
streets,  S.  W.,  this  city,  at  11  o'clock  A.  M,  Tuesday,  September 
17,  1889,  for  the  consideration  of  such  business  as  may  be  brought 

before  it. 

*•.        *          *         *  *          *          *          * 

Bv  command  of 

MAJOR-GENERAL  SCHOFIELD. 
J.  C.  KELTON, 

Adjutant-General . 


604 

(Special  Orders  No.  223.) 
Headquarters  of  the  Army,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  September  25, 
^ 


Extract  2.  By  direction  of  the  Secretary  of  War,  paragraph 
i,  Special  Orders,  No.  213,  September  13,  1889,  from  this  office, 
appointing  a  board  of  medical  officers  to  meet  in  this  city  on  the 
17th  inst.  and  heretofore  suspended,  is  revoked. 

*  *  :j;  *  >;;  *  *  *  *  *  * 

By  command  of 

MAJOR-GENERAL  SCHOFIELD. 
J.  C.  KELTON, 

Adjutant-  General. 

After  demanding  to  know  upon  what  ground  such  an  order 
could  be  issued  calling  for  a  medical  board,  the  following  reply 
was  received  : 

War  Department,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  September  25,  1889. 
Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 

U.  S.  A.  (retired)  : 

Sir  —  Replying  to  your  letter  of  the  2Oth  inst.,  asking  "the  name 
of  the  party  who  made  the  request,  statement  or  charge  that  gave 
an  excuse"  for  the  order  issued  by  the  Acting  Secretary  of  War 
directing  you  to  appear  before  a  medical  board  for  examination, 
I  have  the  honor  to  say  that  as  the  order  mentioned  was  suspended 
and  did  not  go  into  operation  and  has  since  been  revoked,  the 
Secretary  of  War  declines  to  enter  into  an  explanation  of  the 
reasons  for  the  action  of  the  War  Department  in  this  matter. 
Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         J.  C.  KELTON, 

Adjutant-General. 


CHAPTER  XXVIII. 

January  3,  1890. 

Closing  a  very  large  transaction  with  Senator  Stewart  last  night, 
I  give  the  particulars.  Some  time  after  being  placed  on  the  retired 
list  of  the  Army,  having  been  very  successful  in  real-estate  trans- 
actions, and  my  family  being  composed  of  several  young  children, 
I  thought  it  would  be  better  to  select  a  few  acres  of  land  in  the 
suburbs  for  a  home.  While  driving  around  one  Sunday  morning 
with  several  of  my  children  I  observed  a  small  house  on  the  Grant 
road  near  Tennallytown  and  drove  in  the  yard,  when  the  owner 
entertained  us.  Having  done  a  great  deal  of  engineering  work, 
after  surveying  the  surroundings,  I  made  up  my  mind  that  the 
extension  of  Connecticut  avenue  would  either  come  through  the 
ground  or  very  near  it.  The  gentleman  informed  me  that  his 
name  was  Ellison  ;  that  he  had  been  advised  by  his  physician  toleave 
Boston  and  make  his  home  near  the  city  of  Washington  in  order  to 
save  his  life,  and  that  three  years  before  he  had  been  brought  here 
an  invalid.  He  purchased  twelve  acres  of  land,  and  with  proper 
care  and  attention  and  the  advantage  of  the  climate  he  had  re- 
covered his  health  entirely.  Upon  asking  him  if  he  would  sell,  he 
informed  me  that  he  had  no  idea  of  parting  with  his  property.  After 
exchanging  cards,  I  invited  him  to  call  at  my  office,  and  within  a 
week  or  ten  days  he  did  so,  stating  that  his  family  had  requested 
him  to  sell  his  property  and  return  home,  and  that  he  would  let  it 
go  for  $20,000.  We  finally  closed  the  transaction  at  $15,000.  I 
immediately  moved  my  family  there  and  began  to  improve  the 
property  by  erecting  a  windmill,  fixing  up  stables,  putting  an  ad- 
dition to  the  house,  planting  shrubbery,  etc.,  and  soon  made  it 
a  very  attractive  place.  Being  anxious  to  make  the  road  into  the 
city  as  short  as  possible,  I  undertook  to  have  a  driveway  made 
down  Connecticut  avenue  to  the  city.  I  consulted  with  owners 
and  neighbors,  and  soon  found  it  impossible  to  carry  it  out  by 
subscription  or  donation.  I  then  undertook  to  interest  members 
and  Senators  and  have  a  bill  passed  appropriating  funds  to  ex- 
tend the  avenue  through  to  the  District  line.  Failing  in  that  I 
consulted  with  many  capitalists  in  regard  to  buying  $2,500,000 
worth  of  land  and  donating  a  strip  wide  enough  for  the  avenue 
and  building  and  stocking  a  cable  or  electric  railroad  to  cost 


6o6 


another  million.  I  was  discouraged  by  most  everyone  I  put  the 
proposition  before,  many  stating-  that  it  would  be  impossible  to 
carry  out  such  a  large  enterprise, and  that  I  was  one  hundred  years 
ahead  of  the  time.  I  made  up  my  mind  not  to  give  it  up,  and,  being 
in  the  habit  of  keeping  a  candle  and  matches  on  a  little  stand  at 
the  side  of  mv  bed,  I  made  it  a  rule  \\lien  thinking  of  anything  of 
importance  during  the  night  to  light  the  candle  and  make  a  note 
of  my  plans  or  whatever  would  come  into  my  mind.  One  night 
while  I  began  thinking  over  the  names  of  many  capitalists,  I  sud- 
denly thought  of  the  name  of  Senator  William  Stewart  of  Nevada, 
who  was  the  pioneer  in  the  ex- 
tension of  Connecticut  avenue 
years  ago  and  had  built  the 
Stewart  Castle  out  in  the  coun- 
try, for  which  he  was  called 
crazy  by  many  .and  looked  upon 
as  a  man  who  was  wasting  his 
"ortimc  by  undertaking  4,:)  build 
such  a  magnificent  establish- 
ment so  far  out  of  town.  But 
it  was  not  long  before  the 
avenue  came  up  to  his  house, 
and  the  land  that  he  purchased 
by  the  acre  sold  at  the  enor- 
mous prices  of  from  one  to 
twelve  dollars  per  square  foot. 
I  had  not  seen  the  Senator 
for  several  years,  but  had 
known  him  in  a  friendly  way, 
and  called  upon  him  that  even- 
ing about  8  o'clock  at  the 

Shoreham  Hotel.  He  was  engaged  with  his  stenographers  in  an- 
swering a  large  accumulation  of  mail,  but  welcomed  and  seemed 
very  glad  to  see  me.  I  told  him  I  would  like  to  have  two  or  three 
hours  of  his  time  in  talking  over  a  very  important  matter,  when  he 
looked  at  his  mail,  then  looked  up  at  me  again  as  if  he  thought  I 
must  have  something  of  great  importance  to  ask  for  so  much  of 
his  valuable  time.  Finally  he  fixed  n  o'clock,  saying  that  it  wras 
not  necessary  to  send  up  my  card,  but  to  come  to  his  room.  Upon 


SENATOR  STEWART. 


6oy 

my  arrival  he  was  dictating  his  last  letter,  and  I  told  him  that  I 
had  a  plan  to  extend  Connecticut  avenue  to  the  District  line  and 
beyond  if  necessary.  He  said,  "Well,  I  will  be  glad  to  hear  your 
ideas  on  the  subject."  I  soon  explained  that  if  he  could  arrange 
to  put  $2,500,000  in  land  and  $1,000,000  in  building  and  stocking 
an  electric  or  cable  railroad  he  could  clear  $10,000,000  or  $15,000,- 
ooo  within  fifteen  or  twenty  years.  He  took  his  pencil,  my  maps 
and  plans  and  began  to  figure.  After  two  or  three  hours'  work  he 
reminded  me  that  that  was  the  best  scheme  that  had  been  pro- 
posed to  him  for  years,  but  he  could  not  raise  over  $100,000  in- 
dividually. He  thought  over  the  names  of  several  of  his  capitalist 
friends,  and  finally  stopped  at  the  name  of  F.  G.  Newlands,  who 
represented  the  Sharon  estate,  and  wrote  a  dispatch  suggesting 
to  him  that  if  he  would  take  hold  of  it  we  could  carry  the  scheme 
through.  After  some  little  talk  on  the  details  and  the  price  of 
land,  an  agreement  that  this  must  be  kept  perfectly  secret  and  out 
of  the  newspapers  was  made,  and  I  parted  with  him  at  3  o'clock, 
with  his  request  that  I  call  at  10  o'clock  in  the  evening. 

When  I  arrived  in  the  evening  he  produced  an  answerfrom  New- 
lands  approving  of  the  suggestion  and  authorized  me  to  go  ahead 
with  my  plan,  and  at  once  wrote  a  check  for  $35,000,  payable  to 
bearer,  telling  me  to  hire  my  own  lawyers,  to  take  title  to  the  prop- 
erty in  my  own  name,  deposit  all  moneys  to  my  own  credit  and 
keep  his  name  and  Newlands'  out  of  the  transaction.  The  next 
morning  I  drew  $35,000  from  his  bank  and  placed  it  to  my  credit, 
leased  a  building  at  1405  F  street,  had  it  nicely  furnished,  employed 
my  clerks  and  stenographers  and  commenced  operations  on  a  large 
scale  in  a  quiet  way.  It  was  not  long  before  reporters  and  out- 
siders did  their  best  to  find  out  what  was  going  on,  who  was  pur- 
chasing such  a  large  amount  of  property,  and  I  gave  out  the  name 
of  The  California  Syndicate.  Upon  the  arrival  of  Mr.  Newlands 
all  the  money  was  furnished  that  was  necessary  to  secure  land  on 
and  near  the  line  of  Connecticut  avenue  extended,  and  soon  a  large 
force  of  men  were  put  to  work  with  locomotives  and  flat  cars  and 
the  railroad  was  built  to  the  District  line. 

We  then  made  the  following  agreement : 

Whereas  Isaac  Froham  and  Charles  J.  Kappler  are  purchasing 
and  securing  options  of  purchase  of  certain  property  outside  of 
Boundarv  street  within  the  District  of  Columbia,  and  are  employ- 


6o8 

*, 

ing  George  A.  Armes  in  making  such  purchases  and  securing 
such  options ;  now,  therefore, 

It  is  agreed  that  the  compensation  of  said  George  A.  Armes 
shall  be  determined  by  and  dependent  upon  the  success  of  the  en- 
terprise, and  that  he  shall  receive  as  his  full  compensation  10  per 
cent,  upon  the  net  profits  realized  from  the  sales  of  the  property, 
the  purchase  of  which  they  shall  consummate,  such  10  per  cent, 
to  be  paid  as  the  sales  are  made.  For  and  in  consideration  of 
such  compensation  said  Armes  binds  himself  to  attend  to  all  the 
transactions  relating  to  the  purchase  and  marketing  of  said  prop- 
erty and  to  hold  himself  at  all  times  ready  to  perform  such  ser- 
vice. This  agreement  not  to  affect  or  interfere  with  such  com- 
missions as  may  be  received  by  said  Armes  from  the  sellers  or 
their  agents,  such  commissions  to  be  retained  by  said  Armes. 

GEO.  A.  ARMES, 
ISAAC  FROHAM, 
CHARLES  J.  KAPPLER. 
Witness : 

GEO.  B.  CLARK. 

In  order  to  be  correct  in  carrying  out  this  large  transaction  I 
called  on  a  young  lawyer,  Mr.  J.  H.  Ralston,  who  was  associated 
with  Judge  Hillyer,  one  of  the  leading  and  successful  real-estate 
lawyers  of  the  city.  Mr.  Ralston  having  carried  through  a  very 
important  real-estate  transaction  for  Mr.  McCrarey  and  Col.  R. 
G.  Tngersoll  some  time  before,  instilled  confidence  in  me,  and  I 
decided  that  he  was  the  man  who  could  promptly  help  me  in  this 
large  enterprise.  I  also  employed  another  young  lawyer,  Mr. 
Edward  H.  Thomas,  at  twenty  dollars  a  day  to  go  with  me  to  see 
the  owners  of  property  I  had  selected  to  purchase.  Upon  the 
closing  of  each  transaction  an  iron-clad  agreement  was  made,  and 
afterwards  proved  in  several  tests  where  they  tried  to  back  out 
that  I  was  justified  in  taking  the  steps  I  did  to  make  the  transac- 
tions binding  at  the  time  of  negotiating. 

Soon  after  these  transactions  were  closed  more  than  five  times 
what  the  land  had  cost  had  been  offered  for  several  pieces  of  prop- 
erty, a  company  was  soon  formed  called  the  Chevy  Chase  Land 
Co.,  the  Bradley  farm  was  laid  out  into  lots  and  beautified  and 
quite  a  large  number  of  houses  built.  This  spot  is  now  Chevy 
Chase. 

As  soon  as  the  matter  was  settled  and  the  secrecy  dispensed 
with  the  newspapers  came  out  all  over  the  country  announcing 
the  enterprise,  and  the  following  is  an  extract  from  the  Washing- 
ton Post  of  March  2,  1 890,  headed  : 


609 

THE  KING  IN  REAL  ESTATE. 

Col.  George  A.  Armes  Takes  the  Lead  in  the  Business — Some 
of  His  Large  Sales — His  Early  Military  History  and  Retire- 
ment from  the  Army — Immense  Transactions  Negotiated  by 
Him  and  Handsome  Sums  Realized  Therefrom. 

"It  has  been  generally  conceded  that  George  A.  Armes,  U.  S. 
A.,  retired,  has  come  to  the  front  as  one  of  the  leading  real-estate 
brokers  of  the  city,  if  not  justly  entitled  by  his  business  dealings 
and  heavy  transactions  to  enjoy  the  title  of  the  Napoleon  of  his 
calling.  It  is  known  that  his  operations  have  been  enormous,  and 
his  transactions,  especially  of  late,  are  the  heaviest  ever  reported 
in  the  District.  Colonel  Armes  is  well  known  here,  although  a 
native  of  the  State  of  Virginia,  where  he  was  born  in  the  year 
1844."  *  *  * 

January  7,  1890. 

Mr.  Herman  K.  Viele,  the  surveyor,  called  with  me  last  even- 
ing on  Senator  Stewart  and  went  over  the  lands  purchased,  which 
he  is  employed  to  survey.  After  he  had  gone  the  Senator  author- 
ized me  to  close  for  the  64-acre  tract  on  Pierce  Mill  road.  He 
also  authorized  me  to  pay  $2750  cash  to  Judge  S.  R.  Bond  for  his 
ten  acres. 

January  8,  1890. 

Spent  most  of  last  evening  with  Senator  Stewart,  who  author- 
ized me  to  purchase  the  Payne  tract  of  forty-seven  acres,  corner 
of  Grant  road  and  Connecticut  avenue  extended  for  $500  per  acre. 

January  9,  1890. 

Last  evening  Senator  Stewart  and  I  closed  the  transaction  with 
Rev.  Dr.  Sterett  at  $700  per  acre  for  his  tract  near  Pierce  Mill 
road.  Mr.  Frank  Earl,  my  old  clerk  of  Company  E,  Second  New 
York  Artillery,  is  my  guest.  He  is  interested  with  Senator  Jones 
and  Colonel  Ingersoll  near  Mexico,  N.  Y.,  in  a  large  transaction. 

January  n,  1890. 

Senator  Stewart  drove  over  the  different  tracts  of  land  with  me 
today,  and  is  very  much  pleased  with  the  whole  section  I  have 

selected  to  purchase. 

January  12,  1890. 

Spent  over  three  hours  at  the  Shoreham  with  the  Senator  on 
real-estate  matters  last  evening,  and  he  has  decided  to  take  the 
Bradley  place  of  about  300  hundred  acres. 


6io 

January  13,  1890. 

Senator  Stewart  gave  me  $2500  today  to  close  the  Shoemaker 
trade. 

January  1^    1890. 

Did  not  leave  Senator  Stewart  until  I  o'clock  this  A.  M.  Called 
on  him  today  at  the  Capitol,  and  he  authorized  me  to  close  for  the 
Noonan  tract  at  $40,000. 

January  20,  1890. 

I  was  authorized  to  telegraph  Colonel  Ryan  $100,000  for  sixty 
acres  adjoining  the  Pierce  Mill  road  property  on  Connecticut 
avenue  extended. 

January  24,  1890. 

Spent  most  of  last  evening  with  Senator  Stewart,  and  did  not 
leave  him  until  after  i  this  A.  M.,  when  he  authorized  me  to  close, 
the  transaction  with  Mr.  Walbridge.  I  did  so  at  -$500,000  for  his 
tract  on  Pierce  Mill  road  and  Rock  creek  near  Ingleside.  Have 
also  been  trying  to  make  a  deal  with  Mr.  Gates  and  Mr.  Morgan 
for  their  property  near  Grant  road. 

January  25,  1890. 

Senator  Stewart  kept  me  in  his  room  at  the  Shoreham  until  3 
o'clock  this  morning  going  through  business  matters,  and  finally 
authorized  me  to  take  fifty  acres  of  the  Ryan  tract  for  $100,000. 

January  6,  1890. 

Senator  Stewart  and  I  drove  over  the  ground  we  have  mapped 
out  to  purchase.  He  is  very  much  pleased  with  the  Walbridge 
and  Ingleside  tracts,  and  we  partly  decided  to  bring  our  railroad 
up  Seventeenth  street  until  we  can  have  Washington  Heights 
property  condemned  in  order  to  make  a  straight  line  for  the  ex- 
tension of  Connecticut  avenue. 

I  made  an  offer  of  $100,000  to  Capt.  J.  F.  Rogers  for  his  prop- 
erty, sending  him  a  certified  check  for  $5000.  To  the  offer  he 
replied : 

War  Department,  Quartermaster-General's  Office, 

Washington,  January  27,  1890. 
Mr.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 

No.  1339  F  Street,  N.  W., 

Washington,  D.  C. : 

My  Dear  Sir — After  a  conference  with  Mr.  Bullitt,  T  wish  to 
say  that  your  offer  for  "Chevy  Chase"  is  declined,  and  I  herewith 
return  you  your  check  for  $5000. 

Yours  truly, 

JOHN  F.  ROGERS. 


6  i.i 

January  29,  1890. 

Was  with  Senator  Stewart  until  after  12  o'clock  last  evening, 
and  he  gave  me  instructions  to  close  the  Ingleside  trade  for  $300,- 
ooo,  also  to  purchase  the  Green  and  French  property.  I  closed 
the  transaction  with  Miss  French  for  forty-five  acres. 

January  30,  1890. 

Was  with  Senator  Stewart  last  evening,  and  he  kept  me  until 
after  I  o'clock,  authorizing  me  to  purchase  the  Barr  tract  on 
Piney  Branch  road  for  $7000  cash ;  also  the  Klingle  property  on 
Rock  Creek  and  Klingle  roads  for  $129,000. 

February  3,  1890. 

Spent  all  of  last  evening  with  Senator  Stewart,  Senator  Kellogg 
and  Mr.  Francis  G.  Newlands.  The  latter  drove  out  with  me  over 
the  ground  we  have  selected,  and  he  authorized  me  to  take  the 
forty  acres  from  Austin  Herr  at  $66,500. 

February  4,  1890. 

Last  evening  met  Senator  Stewart  and  Mr.  Newlands  at  the 
Shoreham,  and  it  was  after  2  o'clock  this  A.  M.  before  we  parted. 
We  all  decided  on  carrying  the  railroad  up  Seventeenth  street  and 
through  the  Walbridge  tract  if  it  will  be  possible  to  get  the 
charter.  I  was  also  authorized  to  pay  Mr.  Eslin  $75,000  for  his  ten 
acres  on  Columbia  road,  and  I  closed  the  transaction  with  him 
today.  Mr.  Viele  met  Senator  Stewart  and  myself  last  evening  at 
the  Shoreham  with  his  maps  and  plan  of  the  railroad,  which  ap- 
peared satisfactory. 

February  7,  1890. 

While  with  Senator  Stewart  last  evening  Stellwagen  was  repre- 
sented as  having  made  a  statement  that  Ryan  had  offered  to  sell 
his  land  for  $600  per  acre.  I  very  promptly  contradicted  the  state- 
ment, saying  that  it  was  not  true,  and  after  a  thorough  investiga- 
tion T  proved  that  I  had  been  misrepresented  and  placed  in  a  false 
light  by  said  Stellwagen,  who  seemed  to  be  trying  to  run  me  out 
of  the  enterprise  I  am  trying  to  carry  out. 

February  10,  1890. 

Mr.  Newlands  and  Mr.  R.  Dulany  met  Senator  Stewart  and 
myself  at  the  Shoreham  last  evening  and  decided  on  having  a  bill 
of  incorporation  drafted,  in  which  Mr.  Bullitt  was  also  interested, 
but  was  not  present. 


612 

I  wrote  a  letter  to  Mr.  Bullitt  asking  him  to  become  one  of 
the  incorporators  of  the  railroad,  to  which  I  received  the  fol- 
lowing : 

Philadelphia,  February  4,  1890. 

Dear  Sir — I  have  yours  of  the  3d.  I  have  no  objection  to  the 
use  of  my  name  as  an  incorporator  in  the  bill  to  establish  a  cable 
road  running  out  Seventeenth  street  and  by  Klingle  road  and  the 
line  of  Connecticut  avenue.  I  am  very  glad  to  hear  that  such  a 
proposition  is  made,  and  if  we  retain  Chevy  Chase  it  will  be  agree- 
able to  me  to  assist  in  the  enterprise. 

Yours  truly, 

JOHN  C.  BULLTTT. 

February  15,  1890. 

Mr.  Newlands,  Senator  Kellogg,  Rosier  Dulany  and  myself 
spent  most  of  the  evening  with  Senator  Stewart,  and  we  have  de- 
cided to  have  a  bill  introduced  in  regard  to  the  railroad. 

February  19,  1890. 

Mr.  Morton  and  I  went  out  to  look  at  property  yesterday,  and 
lie  is  becoming  very  much  interested  in  this  city.  Mrs.  General 
Hazen  (now  Mrs.  Admiral  Dewey)  called  at  my  office  today  and 
placed  her  Sixteenth  and  K  street  house  in  my  hands  for  sale  or 
rent. 


CUldylor 


Discussing  Plans  with  Senator  Stewart. 


613 

March  i,  1890. 

Mr.  Wimer  backed  out  of  his  deal  for  fifty  acres  I  had  pur- 
chased at  $16,500,  a  very  important  matter  to  me. 

March  9,  1890. 

It  was  after  I  o'clock  this  morning  before  I  left  Senator  Stewart 
and  Mr.  Newrlands.  Stellwagen  has  finally  worked  himself  into 
the  good  graces  of  Newlands  as  one  of  his  advisers.,  and  there 
appears  to  be  a  move  on  foot  to  cheat  me  out  of  commissions  I 
have  earned  in  many  transactions.  Closed  the  sale  for  the  Beall 
place  for  $59,000  today ;  also  closed  the  Bock  transaction  on  the 
Grant  road. 

April  10,  1890. 

Finally  purchased  the  Wormley  tract  on  Pierce  Mill  road  for 
$35,000,  in  which  C.  C.  Lancaster  joins  with  me  in  taking  a  half 
interest. 

April  n,  1890. 

Mr.  B.  H.  Warder  offered  me  $110,000  for  the  Busey  place  on 
\\  oodley  road. 

April  29,  1890. 

Having  purchased  the  Wormley  place,  I  have  fixed  up  the 
house  and  grounds  and  moved  my  family  into  it.  Employed  Miss 
McGruder  of  Maryland  to  take  charge  of  the  younger  children 
during  my  wife's  absence  abroad,  where  she  is  preparing  to  go 
within  the  next  few  days. 

May  i,  1890. 

Contracted  to  have  thirteen  more  rooms  built  as  an  addition  to 
my  house,  which  will  give  me  twenty-five  fine  large  rooms  at 
Fairfield. 

New  York  City,  May  3,  1890. 

After  breakfast  Mr.  Earl,  Marian  and  my  family  went  out  to 
Central  Park  and  returned  at  3  o'clock  P.  M.,  when  my  wife, 
Lucy,  and  daughters  Cecily  and  Ethel,  went  aboard  the  steamer, 
where  they  have  an  elegant  stateroom  and  everything  necesssary 
to  make  them  comfortable  for  their  voyage.  At  4.30  the  steamer 
pulled  out  and  I  threw  an  old  shoe  and  a  lot  of  rice  after  it  for  good 
luck. 


Washington,  D.  C.,  May  14,  1890. 

My  oldest  boy,  George,  was  very  anxious  to  ride  my  running 
horse,  "Messenger,"  which  I  purchased  from  Marshal  Lamon, 
and  took  the  responsibility  of  riding  him  without  my  authority. 
The  horse  ran  off  down  the  Tennallytown  road  to  Georgetown 
and  from  there  towards  the  city,  where  he  slipped  while  rounding 
Washington  Circle,  throwing  George  off  and  breaking  both  of 
his  legs.  With  the  attention  of  two  doctors  in  splicing  his  legs  I 
expect  him  to  pull  through. 

May  1 6,  1890. 

Judge  Henry  Strong  made  me  an  offer  of  $2500  per  year  on  a 
ninety-nine-year  lease  for  the  Kibby  property,  and  he  is  going  to 
place  a  $50,000  building  upon  it. 

August  23,  1890. 

While  going  through  the  row  of  six  houses  I  am  building  a 
loose  board  slipped  and  I  fell  nine  feet  on  my  head  and  face,  which 
almost  killed  me,  but  Dr.  Heger,  U.  S.  A.,  soon  had  me  revived, 
and  I  am  getting  along  all  right,  but  it  was  a  close  call. 

September  4,  1890. 

Lucy,  Cecily  and  Ethel  arrived  in  New  York  last  night  on  The 
Nevada,  and  T  met  them  in  this  city  this  afternoon.  They  greatly 

enjoyed  their  trip,  all  being  glad  to 
get  home,  stating  there  was  no  place 
like  America,  in  spite  of  their  interest- 
ing journeys  through  Europe.  Lucy 
did  not  like  the  Wormley  house,  and, 
as  I  have  the  other  one  completed,  we 
will  soon  move.  The  accompanying 
photograph  was  taken  in  London, 
England. 

September  10,  1890. 
Had  the  wagons  loaded  up  with 
furniture  and  moved  into  Fairfield 
today.  We  now  have  twenty-five 
rooms,  and  can  entertain  our  friends 
without  trouble. 

October  2,  1890. 

August  Voight,  of  whom  I  had  purchased  a  few  acres  of  land 
on  the  Nourse  road  a  few  days  ago,  was  in  my  office  today  explain- 
ing about  the  amount  of  money  he  had  on  hand,  showing  me  his 


CECILY  H.  ARMES. 


book,  when  I  remarked  that  he  had  only  credited  me  with  $360 
on  the  date  that  i  had  paid  him  $3600,  and  he  was  thunderstruck, 
stating  that  he  had  given  Nelson  the  money  to  deposit  for  him. 
He  requested  me  to  go  to  the  bank  with  him.  It  was  soon  dis- 
covered that  Nelson  had  only  deposited  $360  and  had  pocketed 
$3240.  C.  C.  Glover  was  surprised,  and  seemed  offended  at  me 
for  hinting  that  the  Nelson  transaction  was  not  straightforward, 
but  Mr.  Riggs,  who  is  an  honest  man,  immediately  looked  into 
the  affair  and  discovered  Nelson's  crooked  transaction  and  that 
he  had  disappeared  from  the  city. 

October  9,  1890. 

General  Grant,  Assistant  Secretary  of  War,  gave  me  sixty  days' 
permission  to  go  to  New  York  and  any  other  place  I  desired  in 
the  United  States. 

Hagerstown,  Md.,  October  20,  1890. 

There  being  a  great  real-estate  boom  in  this  city,  quite  a  num- 
ber of  Washingtonians  were  invited  here  to  attend  the  sale  of  a 
large  number  of  lots,  which  sold  at  enormous  prices,  and  we  were 
handsomely  entertained  by  the  citizens.  Called  on  ex-Senator 
Hamilton  and  met  Mrs.  A.  R.  Appleman  and  quite  a  number  of 
friends  who  reside  here. 

October  31,  1890. 

General  Grant  drove  out  with  me  this  afternoon  to  look  at  the 
Klingle  property,  as  he  is  desirous  of  investing  quite  extensively 
in  District  property. 

Bedford  City,  Va.,  November  18,  1890. 

I  receivd  an  invitation  yesterday  from  a  number  of  citizens  of 
Bedford  City  to  visit  their  town,  and  quite  a  party  of  us  went  up 
on  a  special  train  yesterday  evening.  We  had  a  grand  dinner  at 
the  hotel,  and  a  large  number  of  building  lots  were  sold  at  auction 
at  enormous  prices,  as  this  appears  to  be  a  regular  boom  town. 
A  very  handsome  hotel  and  several  buildings  have  already  been 
established.  Mr.  Berry  gave  me  an  option  on  several  very  fine 
building  lots  for  thirty  days  at  $10,800. 

December  IT,  1890. 

General  Cutcheon  and  I  took  a  drive,  and  he  has  agreed  to  see 
General  Schofield  in  regard  to  my  appointment  as  Brevet  Lieu- 
tenant-Colonel under  the  recent  act. 


6i6 

December  16,  1890. 

Ex-Governor  McLane  of  Maryland,  ex-minister  to  France,  and 
I  took  a  drive  around  to  look  at  property  this  afternoon,  and  he 
is  very  much  pleased  with  the  Judge  Strong  house,  corner  Six- 
teenth and  L  streets. 

December  31,  1890. 

I  worked  on  papers  and  accounts  most  of  the  afternoon,  set- 
tling up  one  of  the  most  prosperous  years  of  my  life,  and  in  spite 
of  my  military  troubles  and  court-martial  sentence,  which  is 
nothing  but  a  farce,  I  have  cleared  over  $200,000  in  my  transac- 
tions during  the  year.  Built  an  addition  of  thirteen  rooms  to  my 
main  residence,  one  row  of  six  houses  on  Howard  street  and  two 
very  fine  houses  with  back  buildings  on  Albemarle  street,  pur- 
chasing a  number  of  pieces  of  property  in  the  section  of  Connec- 
ticut avenue  extended,  in  order  to  control  it  for  a  good  class  of 
people. 

The  following  documents  and  letters  will  serve  to  more  fully 
illustrate  the  events  of  this  year : 

United  States  Senate, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  January  26,  1890. 
Friend  Armes : 

I  am  busy  in  the  Senate  every  day  but  Sunday.  I  would  like 
to  take  a  ride  in  the  country  and  look  over  the  ground  again. 
Bring  all  the  papers  up  at  once  and  let  Mr.  Kappler  work  on  them 
while  we  are  gone. 

Yours  truly, 

(Signed)          WM.  M.  STEWART. 
MAJ.  GEO.  A.  ARMES. 
P.  S. — Order  your  horses. 


fit? 

An  autograph  letter  from  my  old  friend,  General  F.  E.  Spinner, 
follows  : 


Qf  'l\  n,t*t  CiU-V^ 

&  ft*  Qa*.t*f  «•»•  «»j  y* 


a. 


fa 


vcvfl 


6i8 


uifitiLL* 


t     s 

ca  ct*<tfr£ 


The  following  is  the  last  letter  I  ever  received  from  the  writer  : 

Jacksonville,  Fla.,  April  18,  1890. 
My  Dear  Colonel  : 

The  delay  in  replying  to  yours  of  the  8th  inst.  was  on  account 
of  your  addressing  me  to  Pablo,  and  the  letter  had  to  be  sent  back 
to  Jacksonville,  where  I  now  am.  The  paper  was  received,  read 
to  me,  and  I  enjoyed  it  very  much. 


619 

I  have  no  hope  of  ever  seeing  Washington  again.     My  eye- 
sight is  now  so  impaired  that  I  have  to  employ  an  amanuensis. 
Blind  as  I  am  I  still  am  able  to  sign  myself, 
Very  truly  yours, 

(Signed)         F.  E.  SPINNER. 

Washington,  D.  C,  April  21,  1890. 
To  the  Adjutant-General  U.  S.  A., 

Washington,  D.  C. : 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  request  that  permission  be  granted 
me  to  visit  New  York,  Boston,  El  Paso,  San  Antonio,  Texas,  and 
such  other  points  as  are  within  the  bounds  of  the  United  States. 
Deemed  necessary  for  me  to  go  for  the  next  ninety  days  in  con- 
nection with  business  and  private  matters. 

Very  respectfully,  etc., 

(Signed)        GEO.  A.  ARMES. 

(First  endorsement.) 
War  Department,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 

April  21,  1890. 

Respectfully  returned  to  Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  U.  S.  A.,  re- 
tired. 

The  Secretary  of  War  regards  so  much  of  the  within  letter  as 
refers  to  "such  other  limits  as  are  within  the  bounds  of  the  United 
States"  as  too  indefinite,  and  he  desires  the  points  which  Captain 
Armes  desires  to  visit  to  be  specifically  stated. 

(Signed)         C.  McKEEVER, 

Acting  Adjt.-Gen. 


My  Children. 


CHAPTER  XXIX. 

January  i,  1891. 

Being  under  suspension  by  my  sentence,  approved  by  the  Pres- 
ident, fixing  Washington  city  as  my  place  of  confinement,  with 
fifty  miles  limit  for  exercise,  and  deprived  of  wearing  my  uniform 
as  an  officer  of  the  Army,  it  was  impossible  for  me  to  join  my  com- 
rades at  the  War  Department  this  morning  and  march  to  the 
White  House  to  meet  the  President. 

Judge  Stewart  greatly  enjoyed  calling  with  me.  He  is  a  candi- 
date for  a  very  prominent  position  here,  and  expects  his  appoint- 
ment soon. 

January  22,  1891. 

When  about  to  leave  the  reception  at  Senator  Stanford's  this 
afternoon  he  stated  that  Mrs.  Stanford  would  like  to  see  me  on 
business.  She  wanted  me  to  fix  a  time  when  I  could  go  with  her 
to  look  at  property,  saying  she  had  decided  to  either  lease  or  pur- 
chase a  larger  house,  and  we  fixed  12  o'clock  tomorrow. 

January  23,  1891. 

Mrs.  Stanford  postponed  going  out  until  2  o'clock,  when  the 
Senator  joined  us,  and  we  went  to  look  at  quite  a  number  of 
houses.  Finally  deciding  that  the  Corcoran  house  would  suit  bet- 
ter than  anything  looked  over,  I  offered  it  at  thirteen  dollars  a 
square  foot,  which  made  the  cost  $400,000.  After  several  hours' 
inspection,  they  decided  to  take  it,  noting  down  the  many  altera- 
tions necessary  to  make  it  suitable  to  receive  in. 

January  24,  1891. 

Met  Mr.  D wight  of  New  York,  who  employs  the  Governor  of 
Dakota  as  an  overseer  of  his  farm  and  interests  in  that  State. 
He  and  Colonel  Flaggler  and  I  spent  several  hours  together.  I 
received  a  note  from  F.  G.  Newlands  backing  out  of  his  proposi- 
tion to  take  an  interest  in  the  Judson  patent,  in  which  I  have  just 
taken  $5000  worth  of  stock.  Senator  and  Mrs.  Stanford  are  very 
much  disappointed  in  not  being  able  to  secure  the  Corcoran 


621 

house.  Mr.  McLean  and  T  both  advised  them  not  to  take  it  be- 
cause the  trustees  raised  the  property  to  $15.00  per  foot  when  they 
saw  Mr.  Stanford  wanted  it,  which  would  make  a  difference  of 
$50,000  or  $60,000  in  the  purchase  price.  Gen.  E.  M.  Beale,  who 
is  one  of  my  friends,  agreed  with  me -that  Senator  Stanford  should 
not  be  required  to  pay  the  additional  price  when  it  had  been  re- 
cently offered  at  thirteen  dollars. 

January  26,  1891. 

General  Beale  and  I  called  on  Senator  Stanford.  Not  being 
able  to  get  the  trustees  to  let  the  Corcoran  property  go  for  thir- 
teen dollars,  the  Senator  decided  to  re-lease  the  house  he  now 
occupies  and  build  an  addition  on  the  vacant  lot  for  a  dining  and 
ballroom. 

January  28,  1891. 

Lucy  and  T  spent  a  portion  of  last  evening  with  Mrs.  Senator 
Spooner  and  Mrs.  Stanford.  I  met  Mr.  E.  B.  Grandin,  one  of  the 
large  capitalists  and  business  men  of  Pennsylvania,  whom  I  drove 
around  the  city  to  look  at  property  this  afternoon.  He  is  a  bright 
and  intelligent  business  man  whom  I  am  very  anxious  to  have 
locate  here. 

February  13,  1891. 

Spent  most  of  last  evening  at  the  Arlington  with  Senator  Squire 
of  Washington,  and  today  called  on  Colonel  Berrett,  a  friend 
of  Governor  McLane,  who  is  assisting  me  in  trying  to  secure  a 
building  lot  for  the  ex-Governor.  Mr.  Taverner  and  I  called  on 
General  Hooker  of  Mississippi,  who  accepted  an  invitation  to 
deliver  an  address  on  the  23d. 

February  24,  1891. 

Lucy  and  I  attended  the  reception  at  Lincoln  Hall  given  to  the 
members  of  the  Junior  Order  American  Mechanics.  Among  those 
who  delivered  addresses  except  myself  were  General  Hooker, 
Senator  Stewart  and  General  Grosvenor.  After  the  speeches  we 
attended  the  reception  at  Professor  Cable's,  where  Mrs.  Presi- 
dent Harrison  read  over  the  names  of  the  list  of  daughters  of  the 


622 

association,  and  after  singing  and  a  few  speeches  took  place,  re- 
freshments were  served.  Among  those  present  were  Senator 
Faulkner,  Professor  Goode,  Captain  Vanderbilt  and  a  large  num- 
ber of  the  oldest  inhabitants  and  first  society  of  the  city. 

February  26,  1891. 

Have  been  very  busy  in  real-estate  matters,  buying  a  number 
of  pieces  of  property  and  improving  the  grounds  around  Fair- 
held,  and  have  not  neglected  to  visit  the  War  Department,  Gen- 
eral Schofielcl  and  others  in  relation  to  my  brevet  promotion, 
which  I  earned  and  am  entitled  to. 

Astor  House,  New  York,  March  7,  1891. 

Lawrence  Sands  and  others  joined  me  at  the  depot  last  even- 
ing. We  came  over  here  on  the  invitation  of  Professor  Boynton, 
the  inventor  of  the  bicycle  railroad,  in  which  I  am  largely  inter- 
ested, and  were  taken  over  to  his  road  in  carriages,  the  car  being 
put  in  motion.  It  proves  to  be  a  success.  Col.  J.  H.  Wood  of 
Lowville,  N.  Y.,  took  great  interest  in  it. 

December  31,  1891. 

During' the  year  I  have  continued  the  streets  through  Armes- 
ley  Park  and  donated  them  to  the  District,  and  have  sold  Mr.  C. 
C.  Glover  a  portion  of  the  park  fronting  on  the  Tennallytown 
road.  Having  gone  largely  in  debt  for  the  purchase  of  property 
in  the  vicinity  of  Connecticut  avenue,  I  concluded  to  cut  down 
my  expenses  and  notes  by  selling  off  a  portion  of  my  property. 
I  have  reduced  my  notes  from  $165,000,  which  were  drawing  6  per 
cent.,  to  $90,000,  which  I  hope  to  be  able  to  clear  by  next  year. 
I  am  sorry  to  say  I  have  not  succeeded  in  getting  my  brevet  bill 
through,  although  T  have  given  a  great  deal  of  my  time  at  the 
War  Department  in  trying  to  get  favorable  action.  A  portion  of 
the  same  old  ring  connected  with  Graham  and  Belknap  being  in 
power,  have  managed  to  prevent  it  from  going  through  in  my 
favor. 

Mr.  Brady  invited  us  to  his  gallery,  where  he  made  the  pic- 
tures shown  on  opposite  page  : 


623 


My  Family. 

Having  been  invited  to  address  you  upon  the  past,  present  and 
future  of  the  city  of  Washington,  capital  of  the  United  States,  I 
cannot  as  an  American  citizen  decline. 

The  history  of  the  city  has  been  so  often  written  and  is  so 
familiar  to  all  that  a  retrospective  glance  will  suffice  for  the  past. 
From  what  I  have  gathered  from  Congressional  and  other  records, 
the  question  of  the  location  of  the  national  capital,  was  agitated 
very  soon  after  the  close  of  the  Revolution,  and  several  places 
were  considered,  but  none  selected.  The  Continental  Congress 
had  been  compelled  to  hold  its  sessions  in  eight  different  places, 
and  was  finally  driven  to  Princeton,  N.  J.,  because  of  interruptions 
by  a  mob  of  turbulent  soldiers,  who  had  not  been  promptly  con- 
trolled by  the  local  authorities.  That  is  said  to  have  been  one  of 
the  principal  reasons  why  Philadelphia  was  not  chosen  as  the 
permanent  seat  of  Government,  and  it  also  had  great  influence  in 
locating  it  outside  of  the  jurisdiction  of  any  State  Government. 

On  December  23,  1784,  a  resolution  was  adopted  by  Congress 
for  the  appointment  of  a  committee  to  lay  out  a  district  on^the 
Delaware  river  near  the  Lower  Falls  for  "a  Federal  town,"  in 
which  should  be  erected  "a  Federal  house  for  Congress  and  houses 
for  the  President  and  the  then  Cabinet  Department."  An  at- 
tempt was  at  that  time  made  to  substitute  Georgetown,  but  failed. 


624 

No  further  action  seems  to  have  been  taken  in  the  matter  until 
May  10,  1787,  when  an  effort  was  made  in  Congress  (then  sitting 
in  New  York)  to  have  Government  buildings  erected  in  George- 
town, which  also  failed.  At  a  session  of  Congress  held  in  Phila- 
delphia in  the  summer  of  1787  it  was  provided  that  the  seat  of 
Government  should  not  be  located  there,  as  it  might  cause  a  clash 
between  the  Federal  and  State,  or  local,  jurisdiction.  James  Mad- 
ison introduced  a  clause,  which  was  adopted,  providing  for  a  dist- 
trict  ten  miles  square  over  which  the  General  Government  should 
retain  exclusive  jurisdiction.  Under  and  by  virtue  of  the  act  of 
Congress  there  were  appointed  certain  commissioners  with  power 
to  locate  on  the  banks  of  the  Potomac  river  a  place  to  be  known 
as  the  District  of  Columbia. 

A  part  of  this  district  had  been  ceded  by  the  State  of  Mary- 
land and  a  part  by  the  State  of  Virginia.  Since  the  establishment 
of  the  District  that  part  ceded  by  Virginia  has  been  re-ceded  to 
the  State,  and  now  the  lands  comprised  within  the  District  of 
Columbia  are  all  from  what  was  formerly  the  State  of  Maryland. 
The  first  three  Commissioners  appointed  to  act  with  President 
Washington  in  running  lines,  surveying  and  laying  out  the  Fed- 
eral Territory  were  Gen.  Thomas  Johnson,  Hon.  Daniel  Carroll 
of  Maryland  and  Dr.  David  Stewart  of  Virginia. 

The  Commission  entered  upon  its  duties  on  the  I5th  day  of 
April,  1791,  and  laid  the  first  boundary  stone  of  the  District  at 
Tones'  Point  in  Virginia  after  the  Masonic  form.  The  Commis- 
sioners named  the  district  the  Territory  of  Columbia,  which  name 
it  retained  several  years.  They  also  named  the  "Federal  city"  to 
be  founded,  Washington. 

After  the  lines  had  been  run  designating  the  particular  terri- 
tory (to  be  known  as  the  Territory  of  Columbia"),  the  city  of  Wash- 
ington was  first  surveyed  and  laid  out  by  Maj.  Pierre  Charles 
L'Enfant,  a  French  engineer,  who  had  come  to  this  country  in 
the  year  1777,  served  in  the  French  contingent  of  the  Revolu- 
tionary War,  and  remained  in  his  adopted  country  when  the 
French  troops  returned  to  their  native  land. 

L'Enfant  was  a  renowned  French  scholar  and  civil  engineer, 
and  was  educated  in  Europe.  He  laid  out  the  city  of  Washington 
in  streets  and  avenues  and  distributed  the  public  buildings  indiffer- 
ent parts  of  the  city,  so  that  two  things  might  be  accomplished  in 
case  of  an  attempt  on  the  part  of  a  military  force  to  capture  the  city. 
First,  he  made  different  common  centers,  with  avenues  leading 
thereto  in  such  a  manner  that  blocking:  all  streets  and  avenues, 
part  of  the  citv  could  be  made  a  nlace  of  safety,  wherein  the 
other  part  might  be  occupied  by  belligerent  troops,  and  so  con- 
structed the  streets  and  avenues  that  a  cannon  conld  be  placed 
at  these  common  centers  and  sweep  the  enemy  in  everv  direction. 
This  was  the  original  idea  in  laying  out  the  city  of  Washington 


625 

in  the  manner  it  is  now.  Being  no  longer  danger  of  war,  no  longer 
danger  that  belligerent  troops  will  ever  march  through  our  streets 
and  turn  upon  our  public  buildings,  it  is  conceded  that  his  military 
idea  makes  the  prettiest  landscape  and  park  that  it  is  possible  to 
plan,  and  the  common  centers  of  that  day  for  military  protection 
are  today  things  of  beauty  that  will  give  joy  to  Washington's  in- 
habitants and  visitors  for  all  times. 

The  duty  of  the  Commissioners  and  President  in  laying  out  the 
Federal  city  and  acquiring  title  to  the  lands  therein  was  both 
long  and  arduous.  The  meetings  were  held  at  the  Suter's  Tavern. 
Finally,  after  a  great  deal  of  toil  and  trouble,  the  principal  pro- 
prietors of  the  land  signed  the  following  agreement,  and  it  was 
recorded  by  the  Commissioners  April  12,  1791  : 

"We,  the  subscribers,  in  consideration  of  the  great  benefits  we 
expect  to  derive  from  having  the  Federal  city  laid  out  upon  our 
lands,  do  hereby -agree  and  bind  ourselves,  heirs,  executors  and 
administrators  to  convey  in  trust  to  the  President  of  the  United 
States  or  Commissioners,  or  such  person  or  persons  as  he  shall 
appoint,  by  good  and  sufficient  deeds,  in  fee-simple,  the  whole  of 
our  lands  which  he  may  think  proper  to  include  within  the  lines 
of  the  Federal  city  for  the  purposes  and  on  the  conditions  fol- 
lowing:" 

Here  follows  the  agreement  to  lay  out  the  land  comprised  in 
the  Federal  city  into  lots,  blocks,  parks  and  public  gardens,  and 
the  proprietors  whose  lands  were  taken  for  the  public  use  were 
to  receive  a  compensation  at  the  rate  of  sixty-six  and  two-thirds 
($66^)  dollars  per  acre,  to  be  paid  by  the  public,  but  to  receive 
nothing  for  the  streets. 

The  first  persons  selected  by  the  President  as  trustees  were 
Thomas  Beall  and  John  Mackall  Gantt.  The  Commissioners 
commenced  immediately  after  the  laying  out  of  the  city  to  sell 
lots,  a  portion  of  which  became  the  property  of  the  Government 
for  the  purpose  of  establishing  public  buildings.  By  act  of  Con- 
gress the  city  was  to  be  ready  for  use  of  the  Government  officials 
in  1800,  nine  years  from  the  time  of  the  passage  of  the  act,  during 
which  time  Congress  was  in  Philadelphia.  On  October  13.  1792, 
'the  corner-stone  of  the  President's  house  was  laid,  and  on  Sep- 
tember 18,  1793,  that  of  the  Capitol. 

The  account  written  in  1800  by  John  Cotton  Smith,  at  that 
time  a  member  of  Congress  from  Connecticut,  was  as  follows : 
"Our  approach  to  the  city  was  accompanied  with  sensations  not. 
easily  described.     One  wing  of  the  Capitol  had  been   erected, 
which,  with  the  President's  house,  a  mile  distant  from  it,  both 
constructed  with  white  sandstone,  were  shining  objects  in  _  dismal 
contrast  with  the  scene  around  them.    Instead  of  recognizing  the 
avenues  and  streets  portrayed  on  the  plan  of  the  cit\.  not  one  was 
visible,  unless  we  except  a  road  with  two  buildings  on  each  s 
of  it  called  the  New  Jersey  avenue. 


626 

"The  Pennsylvania  avenue  leading',  as  laid  down  on  paper, 
from  the  Capitol  to  the  Presidential  mansion,  was  nearly  the  whole 
distance  a  deep  morass  covered  with  elder  bushes,  which  were  cut 
through  to  the  President's  house,  and  near  Georgetown  a  block 
of  houses  had  been  erected  which  bore  the  name  of  the  'Six 
Buildings.'  There  w^ere  also  two  other  blocks,  consisting  of  two 
or  three  dwelling-houses  in  different  directions,  and  now  and  then 
an  isolated  wooden  habitation.  The  intervening  spaces,  and  in- 
deed the  surface  of  the  city  generally,  being  covered  with  scrub- 
oak  bushes  on  the  higher  grounds,  and  on  the  marshy  soil  either 
trees  or  some  sort  of  shrubbery.  The  desolate  aspect  of  the  place 
was  not  a  little  augmented  by  a  number  of  unfinished  edifices  at 
Greenleaf's  Point,  and  on  an  eminence  a  short  distance  from  it, 
commenced  by  an  individual  whose  name  they  bore,  but  the  state 
of  whose  funds  compelled  him  to  abandon  them.  There  appeared 
to  be  but  two  habitations  really  comfortable  in  all  respects  within 
the  bounds  of  the  city,  one  of  which  belonged  to  Daniel  Carroll, 
and  the  other  to  Notley  Young.  The  roads  in  every  direction  were, 
muddy  and  unimproved ;  in  short,  it  was  a  new  settlement." 

The  Government  took  possession  of  the  city  in  October,  1800, 
at  that  time  a  city  of  3000  inhabitants.  It  assumed  jurisdiction 
of  the  District  of  Columbia  in  1801. 

The  city  of  Washington  was  incorporated  by  an  act  of  Con- 
gress on  May  3,  1802.  After  a  few  years  Congress  gave  the  citi- 
zens a  right  to  elect  their  Mayor,  and  a  municipal  form  of  gov- 
ernment was  continued  until  1871,  when  Congress  repealed  the 
city  charter  and  established  a  Territorial  form  of  government, 
which  remained  until  1874.  Since  that  time  Commissioners  have 
been  appointed  by  the  President  to  have  charge  of  the  District, 
under  the  supervision  of  Congress,  which  was  the  original  plan 
adopted  for  the  government  of  the  city. 

The  improvements  in  the  city  of  Washington  were  only  such  as 
necessity  required  to  continue  it  the  capital  city,  or  as  its  business 
interests  demanded,  from  the  time  T  have  mentioned  up  to  the 
commencement  of  the  Civil  War.  Tt  was  without  imposing  struc- 
tures, with  limited  sidewalks  and  pavements. 

At  the  close  of  that  bloody  struggle,  which  had  seen  Washing- 
ton nearly  captured  several  times  by  the  Confederate  forces,  it 
had  passed  through  terrible  scenes  of  doubt,  dread,  almost 
despair,  when  the  martyred  President  had  been  stricken  down 
by  the  assassin's  hand,  and  when  questions  of  the  hour  were,  Can 
the  Government  survive  the  great  shock  it  has  received  from  the 
effects  of  the  Rebellion  and  the  assault  of  the  assassin? 

Improvements  of  every  character  had  been  neglected,  the 
streets  and  houses  were  in  a  dilapidated  condition,  as  the  fevered 
excitement  had  so  taken  hold  of  the  people  that  the  affairs  con- 
nected with  the  upbuilding  and  growth  of  the  city  had  been  en- 


627 

tirely  neglected.  Since  the  restoration  of  peace  there  has  been  a 
constant  and  continuous  growth,  improvement  year  by  year,  until 
within  the  past  three  years  it  has  reached  that  period  known  in 
Western  phraseology  of  their  rapidly-growing  towns  and  cities 
as  a  "boom." 

Capitalists  seeking  investments  in  the  East  have  found  a  profit- 
able place  in  Washington.  The  salubrious  climate  and  natural  at- 
tractions in  the  way  of  scenery,  when  connected  with  the  mag- 
nificent parks,  boulevards,  public  department  buildings,  private 
mansions,  residences  of  the  Chief  Magistrate  of  the  nation,  the 
Capitol  house,  in  which  its  laws  are  enacted  and  its  high  courts 
decide  the  most  important  events  in  the  world's  litigation.  These 
things,  connected  with  a  society  that  they  create,  with  the  society 
of  the  world's  most  talented,  wealthy,  beautiful  and  accomplished 
sons  and  daughters,  who  come  here  from  all  parts  of  the  world 
to  visit  our  city  and  view  with  wonder  its  magnificent  attractions, 
have  made  this  the  "Paris  of  America,"  and  doubtless  in  the  near 
future  our  city  will  lead  the  world  in  all  things  which  make  life 
secure,  luxurious  and  charming. 

It  is  said  that  future  events  can  be  judged  by  the  past.  If  we 
look  upon  the  city  of  Washington  a  quarter  of  a  century  hence 
and  judge  by  the 'improvements  it  will  make  from  now  to  then, 
the  cities  of  ancient  grandeur  will  pale  into  insignificance  before 
her.  The  swinging  gardens  of  Babylon  have  been  the  wonder 
and  admiration  of  the  world  for  ages,  but  Washington  will  pre- 
sent a  grander  beauty  in  her  public  parks  and  private  gardens 
when  all  is  completed. 

New  York  has  been,  and  will  probably  continue  to  be,  the  me- 
tropolis in  population  and  trade.  Chicago,  with  its  wonderful  and 
restless  business  capacity,  has  become  the  pride  of  the  West,  and 
will  ever  be  known  as  the  mammoth  city  of  the  Lakes.  Wash- 
ington will  not  stand  with  them  in  numerical  order  of  population, 
but  the  overflow  of  wealth  and  beauty  from  these  great  business 
centers  have  given  the  social  advantages  to  Washington,  and  our 
society  consists  of  some  of  their  most  wealthy  and  talented  citi- 
zens. Although  other  cities  have  colleges  surpassing  those  in 
Washington,  but  the  hopes  and  desires  of  its  citizens  will  be 
realized,  and  it  will  stand  first  in  the  land  as  an  educational  center. 
As  a  political  center  our  city  will  always  stand  pre-eminent,  for 
here  Congress  meets  and  the  laws  governing  our  country  are 
enacted.  It  has  already  been  shown  to  be  the  most  fitting  place 
in  the  country  for  annual  meetings  of  societies  or  organizations 
and  as  there  is  no  city  which  equals  Washington  for  its  beautiful 
drives  and  hospitality,  visitors  are  always  welcomed  here.  ^ 

Baltimore  has  been  styled  the  Monumental  City  of  America. 
Washington  is  equally  entitled  to  that  appellation.  There  has 
been  recently  one  of  the  finest  monuments  in  America  erected  in 


628 

honor  of  Lafayette,  which  has  been  placed  in  one  of  her  pic- 
turesque parks,  and  other  monuments  which  are  in  contemplation 
will  far  surpass  any  we  have  yet  had.  The  monument  erected  to 
the  "Father  of  His  Country"  is  a  magnificent  obelisk  of  marble, 
555  feet  high,  and  before  the  end  of  another  century  a  monument 
as  grand  should  be  erected  to  the  memory  of  the  discoverer  of 
this  country,  Christopher  Columbus.  Such  a  memorial  might 
wisely  take  the  shape  of  a  mammoth  bridge  spanning  the  Poto- 
mac (that  most  majestic  of  rivers)  from  the  capital  city  to  the 
National  Cemetery  at  Arlington  (which  will  ever  be  remembered 
as  the  home  of  one  of  America's  most  talented  citizens  and  sol- 
diers, Robert  E.  Lee),  where  sleep  some  of  our  illustrious  dead, 
who  gave  their  lives  for  their  country,  and  whose  deeds  for  the  ad- 
vancement of  life,  liberty  and  happiness  will  ever  be  revered,  mak- 
ing Arlington  a  Westminster  Abbey. 

War  Department,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  February  25,  1891. 
Capt;  George  A.  Armes, 

U.  S.  Army  (retired) : 

Sir — Referring  to  your  communication  of  the  i8th  inst.  request- 
ing permission  to  go  beyond  the  limits  fixed  in  General  Court- 
Martial  Orders,  No.  31,  June  7,  1889,  from  this  office,  I  have  the 
honor  to  inform  you  that  the  Secretary  of  War  authorizes  you 
to  visit  New  York  city,  N.  Y. ;  Boston,  Mass.,  and  Charleston, 
S.  C.,  at  such  times  as  you  may  select  within  the  next  ninety  days. 
Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
R.  WILLIAMS, 

Asst.  Adjutant-General. 

Washington,  D.  C..  April  20,  1891. 
Hon.  Joseph  R..Hawley, 

2130  I  street,  N.  W. : 

General — Will  you  be  kind  enough  to  inform  me  at  your  earliest 
convenience  whether  or  not  you  applied  to  the  President,  the 
Secretary  of  War  or  General  S'chofield  or  suggested  that  a  court- 
martial  should  be  ordered  in  my  case  in  relation  to  the  Beaver 
matter.  This  information  is  desired  in  connection  with  sonu 
very  important  matters  which  may  develop  in  the  future. 

Very  respectfully, 

G.  A.  AR.MKS. 

Senate  Chamber. 

Washing  r»,  ApHl  23,  1891. 
Dear  Major : 

Tn  reply  to  your  note  of  April  20,  I  can  only  say  that  I  have  no 
recollection  at  this  moment  concerning  what  I  said  as  to  bringing 


629 

you  before  a  court-martial  for  assaulting  Governor  Beaver.  I  am 
sure  that  I  did  not  seek  the  President  or  Secretary  or  General  Scho- 
field  for  the  purpose  of  suggesting  a  court,  for  it  must  have  been 
evident  to  everyone,  yourself  included,  that  a  court  was  inevitable. 

Yours  truly, 

J.  R.  HAWLEY. 

Office  of  George  A.  Armes, 
Real    Estate   Broker,    Notary-Public, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  May  27,  1891. 
Hon.  E.  W.  Halford, 

Washington,  D.  C. : 

Dear  Colonel — I  wish  you  would  let  me  know  as  soon  as  con- 
venient what  the  prospects  are  of  my  unjust  sentence  being  re- 
mitted on  or  before  the  ist  of  July  as  it  is  a  very  important  matter 
to  me  under  the  circumstances,  in  order  that  I  may  make  my 
future  plans. 

I  have  written  to  General  Schofield  about  the  same,  but  have 
learned  he  is  out  of  the  city.  I  had  a  short  conversation  with 
General  Grant  (who  is  acting  Secretary  of  War)  the  other  even- 
ing, who  said  he  would  talk  over  the  matter  with  you.  My  future 
plans  may  depend  on  prompt  action  in  this  matter.  I  hardly  think 
it  is  necessary  to  say  more  at  present. 
Yours  truly, 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES. 

WTar  Department,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 
(.'apt.  George  A.  Armes, 

U.S.  Army  (retired) : 

Sir— Referring  to  your  letter  of  the  loth  inst.  requesting  that 
your  limits  be  extended  so  as  to  enable  you  to  visit  Boston,  Mass. ; 
Portsmouth,  N.  H. ;  El  Paso,  Texas,  and  such  other  places  as  you 
may  deem  proper  within  said  bounds  during  the  next  ninety  days, 
I  have  the  honor  to  inform  you  that  the  Acting  Secretary  of  War 
approves  so  much  of  your  request  as  relates  to  your  visiting  Bos- 
ton, Portsmouth  and  El  Paso,  but  declines  to  authorize  you  to  visit 
such  other  places  as  you  may  deem  proper. 

Verv  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

J.  C.  KELTON, 

Adjutant-General. 

Office  of  Geo.  A.  Armes,  Real  Estate  Broker, 

1405  F  Street,  Washington,  D.  C.,  June  15,  1891. 
To  the  Honorable  Secretary  of  War 

(Through  the  Adjutant-General  I       >.  A.) : 
Sir— In  relation  to  your  communication  of  the  I2th  inst   de 
dining  to  authorize  me  to  visit  such  other  places  as  I  may  deem 


630 

proper  within  the  bounds  of  El  Paso,  Texas;  Portsmouth,  N.  H., 
and  Boston,  Mass.,  and  by  approving  of  my  visiting  the  above- 
named  places,  I  do  not  fully  understand  how  I  could  reach  said 
points  without  stopping  somewhere  between  them  unless  I  went 
in  a  balloon  which  could  land  me  carefully  at  each  place ;  there- 
fore, in  order  that  the  Honorable  Secretary  may  fully  understand 
my  object  in  mentioning  in  my  application  "such  places  as  I  may 
deem  proper  to  visit  within  said  bounds"  I  desire  to  call  your  at- 
tention to  the  fact  that  my  business  is  of  such  a  nature  it  may  be 
necessary  for  me  to  meet  people  in  Wheeling,  W.  Va.,  or  Rich- 
mond and  many  places  I  cannot  well  mention  in  an  application. 

Viewing  the  construction  of  your  authority  of  June  12  to  leave 
the  city,  I  feel  I  could  not  stop  at  any  place  except  those  men- 
tioned without  making  myself  liable  to  charges ;  therefore  I  will 
be  pleased  to  know  whether  there  is  any  objection  to  my  stopping 
over  or  visiting  such  places  as  I  may  deem  proper  within  the  said 
limits. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES. 

War  Department,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  June  17,  1891. 
Capt.  George  A.  Armes, 

U.  S.  Army  (retired) : 

Sir — I  am  instructed  by  the  Secretary  of  War  to  say  in  reply  to 
your  letter  of  the  I5th  inst.  that  the  authority  granted  you  in  let- 
ter of  the  1 2th  inst.  from  this  office  to  visit  Boston,  Mass. ;  Ports- 
mouth, N.  H.,  and  El  Paso,  Texas,  of  course  includes  authority 
to  visit  all  the  places  on  the  direct  route  of  travel  between  these 
places,  and  also  places  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  each  of  the 
cities  named,  but  not  such  other  places  as  you  may  deem  proper 
within  the  bounds  of  Boston,  Portsmouth  and  El  Paso,  for  that 
might  be  construed  as  authorizing  you  to  travel  over  the  greater 
portion  of  the  United  States. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

J.  C.  KELTON, 

Adjutant-General. 

War  Department,  Office  of  the  Assistant  Secretary, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  July  30,  1891. 

Sir' — I  take  pleasure  in  informing  you  that  the  President  has 
directed  the  unexpired  portion  of  the  sentence  of  the  court-mar- 
tial in  your  case  to  be  remitted,  and  the  same  is  remitted  by  order 
of  the  President. 

Very  respectfully, 

L.  A.  GRANT, 

Acting  Secretary  of  War. 


CHAPTER  XXX. 

January  i,  1892. 

Ethel  and  I  spent  most  of  last  evening  with  General  and  Mrs. 
Williams  and  their  daughters  and  Mrs.  Madison  Cutts,  who  en- 
tertained us  by  the  most  brilliant  conversation.  Was  up  bright 
and  early  this  morning  in  full-dress  uniform  for  the  first  time  in 
over  two  years,  my  sentence  having  been  remitted  during  the 
year,  allowing  me  to  wear  it.  After  calling  at  the  War  Depart- 
ment, we  marched  in  procession  to  the  White  House,  where  we 
shook  hands  with  the  President  and  others  usually  assembled 
there,  among  them  Mrs.  General  Berdan,  Miss  Bachelder,  Miss 
Lincoln,  General  Williams,  Mrs.  Drew,  Colonel  Robinson,  the 
Rutherfords,  Clephanes,  Carusis,  Chaplain  Van  Wyck  and  many 
other  old  friends  whom  I  had  not  seen  for  years. 

January  2,  1892. 

I  made  my  last  call  at  Mrs.  Senator  Davis',  where  we  met  a  large 
number  of  friends,  and  were  entertained  by  the  hostess  in  her 
usual  elegant  style.  We  then  met  General  Miles  and  Captain 
Maus  at  the  Shoreham,  where  we  spent  several  hours  together 
talking  over  old  war  times,  and  did  not  part  until  after  i  o'clock 
this  A.  M.  Met  Mr.  Shear  at  the  Shoreham,  who  decided  to  pur- 
chase the  lot  corner  Sixteenth  and  P  streets  for  $47,000. 

January  8,  1892. 

Met  Hon.  Stephen  B.  Elkins,  Secretary  of  War,  at  the  Nor- 
rnandy  this  A.  M.,  and  he  accompanied  me  to  look  at  Judge 
Strong's  K  street  house  and  several  others,  and  authorized  me  to 
offer  $10,000  a  year  for  a  lease.  'We  passed  the  deeds  today  from 
Mr.  Gray  to  Mrs.  Shear  for  the  lot  corner  Sixteenth  and  P  streets. 
I  took  the  responsibility  of  having  the  deed  made  out  to  his  wife, 
instead  of  to  his  father  and  mother  as  he  had  directed,  as  I' felt  it 
would  be  better  in  the  end  that  she  should  hold  some  property 
in  her  name  in  case  anything  should  happen  to  him  in  his  large 
transactions  in  stocks. 


632 

January  19,  1892. 

Spent  a  portion  of  last  evening  at  the  Arlington  with  Senator 
and  Mrs.  Vilas,  and  then  called  on  Mr.  and  Mrs.  E.  V.  Smalley, 
who  introduced  me  to  Mrs.  Senator  Saunders  of  Montana,  whose 
husband  is  so  well  and  favorably  known. 

January  21,  1892. 

Met  Russell  Harrison  at  the  Arlington  last  evening,  who  in- 
troduced me  to  his  friend,  Mr.  Delmar  of  Idaho,  who  is  splurging 
in  wealth,  having  made  some  six  or  eight  millions  in  his  mining 
enterprises,  and  who  expects  to  find  a  wife  here  in  the  city  before 
leaving. 

January  22,  1892. 

Senator  and  Mrs.  Gibson  invited  me  to  dine  with  Governor 
Groome,  Colonel  Merrick,  Mr.  Dean  and  six  or  eight  others  at 
the  Corcoran  Hotel  last  evening.  After  drinking  to  the  Senator's 
health  and  congratulating  him  upon  his  election,  we  parted  at  i 
o'clock  this  A.  M. 

Fairfield,  September  7,  1892. 

I  have  met  a  great  many  officials  since  I  last  wrote  in  my  diary, 
visiting  watering-places  and  transacting  a  large  amount  of  busi- 
ness. Captain  and  Mrs.  Beck  and  Lieutenant  Freeman  of  the 
Army  are  over  here  from  Baltimore.  I  took  them  driving  in  my 
tea-cart  through  the  Monument  Grounds  and  out  to  the  Sol- 
diers' Home.  Invited  Mrs.  Beck  to  my  house  as  my  guest. 

December  31,  1892. 

Although  this  has  not  been  a  very  prosperous  year,  I  have  no 
cause  to  complain,  considering  that  I  have  reduced  my  expenses 
and  hold  on  to  a  large  amount  of  property  which,  in  the  course 
of  time,  will  be  very  valuable,  and  more  so  as  improvements  are 
made  in  the  extension  of  Connecticut  avenue.  It  is  a  great  deal 
of  satisfaction  to  feel  that  myself,  wife  and  all  the  children  are  en- 
joying good  health  and  are  ready  to  commence  a  new  year  tomor- 
row well  and  in  good  shape. 

The  following  communications  are  appended  in  chronological 
order : 

The  following  is  a  copy  of  a  letter  of  transmittal  with  a  birthday 
present  of  a  watch  and  chain  to  my  daughter  Ethel : 


633 

My  Dear  Big  Baby  Girl,  Ethel  M.  Armes : 

I  only  present  this  little  watch  as  a  small  token  of  remembrance, 
hoping  that  when  you  seek  the  time  from  it  your  mind  will  be 
impressed  with  the  fact  that  its  donor  is  proud  of  his  little  daugh- 
ter, and  it  is  his  wish  that  she  will  always  conduct  herself  in  such 
a  way  that  he  will  contnue  his  devotion  ancl  admiration  for  her 
and  always  love  her  as  an  affectionate  father  ever  can  a  child  who 
is  good  and  true. 

Your  affectionate  father, 

(Signed)         G.  A.  A. 

National  Soldiers'  Home,  Virginia, 

May  23,  1892. 
Maj.  George  A.  Armes  : 

Sir — As  you  are  chairman  of  arrangements  in  our  organization, 
Second  New  York  Heavy  Artillery,  and  as  I  am  on  that  commit- 
tee, 1  will  state  that  I  cannot  meet  you  on  June  6,  but  I  will  sug- 
gest that  our  regimental  colors  be  brought  to  Washington,  as  I 
suppose  we  will  take  part  in  the  G.  A.  R.  parade,  as  I  suppose  the 
most  of  the  survivors  are  members  of  that  organization.  Every 
communication  from  you  or  from  any  of  the  committee  will  be 
promptly  answered. 

MONTGOMERY  MILLER, 

Assistant  Engineer. 

RECEPTION   TO    SECOND    NEW   YORK. 

(From  Post  of  September  25,  1892.) 

Maj.  G.  A.  Armes  of  this  city  gave  a  reception  at  his  house  on 
Connecticut  avenue  extended  Tuesday  night  to  his  old  regiment, 
the  Second  New  York  Heavy  Artillery.  They  were  delightfully 
entertained  by  his  family.  'His  daughters,  Misses  Cecily  and 
Ethel,  with  their  music  and  recitations,  made  the  old  comrades 
enjoy  themselves  to  the  fullest  extent.  Among  those  present 
were  Capt.  C.  L.  Smith,  Sergeant  Musson,  First  Lieut.  G.  W. 
Lacy,  First  Lieut.  G.  T.  Bushnell,  Orderly  Sergt.  A.  J.  Birdsall, 
M.  Miller,  P.  Countryman,  Bugler  George  Gracey,  E.  D.  Stone, 
E.  Bens,  H.  Davis,  S.'  Miller,  W.  F.  Wakefield,  Hon.  J.  L.  Briggs 
of  Missouri,  F.  E.  Dykeman,  Capt.  J.  J.  Williamson,  W.  Hector 
Gale,  R.  J.  Clark,  D.  W.  Osburn,  Frank  H.  Burr,  Capt.  F.  Brooks 
and  others. 


CHAPTER  XXXI. 

December  31,  1893. 

I  have  passed  a  very  busy  year.  On  the  1st  of  January  met  in 
uniform  at  the  War  Department  and  marched  over  to  the  Presi- 
dent's house  with  the  Army  officers  assembled  there,  shaking 
hands  with  the  President  and  Cabinet  ladies  and  meeting  old 
friends  as  usual  whom  I  had  not  seen  for  years,  after  which  I  made 
the  usual  calls  on  the  Cabinet  and  my  citizen  friends.  Just  before 
the  inauguration  of  Mr.  Cleveland,  on  the  4th  of  March,  I  was 
appointed  on  the  staff  as  an  aide  to  Gen.  Martin  T.  McMahon, 
who  was  made  Grand  Marshal  for  the  occasion.  On  February  25 
received  the  list  of  aides,  who  took  an  active  part  on  the  4th  of 
March,  inauguration  of  the  President,  from  the  Capitol  to  the 
White  House,  in  one  of  the  worst  rain  and  hail  storms  I  can  ever 
remember  of  witnessing  here,  many  aides  being  obliged  to  retire 
before  the  termination  of  the  procession. 

Col.  William  Cody  (Buffalo  Bill),  who  was  also  an  aide,  re- 
mained with  General  McMahon  and  myself  to  the  last.  Leopard, 
the  Arabian  stallion  presented  to  General  Grant  by  the  Khedive 
of  Egypt,  was  turned  over  to  me  to  ride  on  this  occasion  by  Gen. 
Edward  Beale.  Everything  passed  off  successfully  in  spite  of  the 
terrible  storm,  and  the  parade  was  announced  as  a  grand  success. 

As  few  are  aware  of  how  General  Beale  came  in  possession  of 
that  Arabian  stallion,  it  may  be  interesting  to  give  the  particulars. 
While  General  Grant  was  on  his  tour  around  the  World  the  Khe- 
dive was  very  anxious  to  do  something  for  him,  and  selected  two 
of  the  finest-bred  and  handsomest  Arabian  stallions  in  his  do- 
minions, tendering  them  to  the  ex-President.  After  figuring  the 
expense  of  getting  his  horses  to  this  country,  General  Grant  de- 
clined the  present,  with  a  polite  note  saying  that  he  had  no  way 
of  getting  them  shipped  to  America.  Shortly  afterwards,  meet- 
ing General  Beale,  who  wras  minister  to  Austria,  he  mentioned  the 
circumstances  to  him,  when  he  reminded  General  Grant  that  such 
fine-bred  horses  could  not  be  purchased  with  money,  and  that  if 
he  would  agree  to  give  him  one  of  them  on  their  arrival  in  this 
country  he  would  pay  expenses  of  shipment  for  both.  General 
Grant  agreed  to  the  proposition,  immediately  dispatching  one  of 


635 

his  party  to  the  Khedive  with  the  information  that  he  had  dis- 
covered a  way  of  getting  the  horses  to  America,  and  would  gladly 
accept  them. "  After  their  arrival  here  one  was  sent  to  Missouri 
and  the  other  retained  by  General  Beale,  who  was  minister  to 
Russia  at  the  time  of  General  Grant's  tour  around  the  world. 

The  following  is  one  of  the  cards  sent  to  each  member  of  Gen- 
eral McMahon's  staff : 

General  Committee.  Executive  Committee. 

James  G.  Berrett,  Chairman.  James  L.  Norris,  Chairman. 

Alex.  Porter  Morse,  Secretary.  J.  Fred  Kelley,  Secretary. 

Charles  G.  Glover,  Treasurer.  Wm.  Cranch  Mclntire,  Cor.  Sec. 

Inaugural  Ceremonies,  Headquarters  Grand  Marshal, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  February,  1893. 
Maj.  George  A.  Armes : 

Sir — I  am  directed  by  General  Corbin  to  request  that  you  re- 
port to  him  by  return  mail  the  probable  date  of  your  arrival  in 
this  city  and  your  address  while  here;  also  that  you  will  report 
and  register  your  arrival  at  General  McMahon's  headquarters. 

General  McMahon's  headquarters  will  be  at  Room  243,  War 
Department  (Colonel  Corbin's  office)  until  March  2,  and  at  1425 
New  York  avenue  on  and  after  March  3.    Sash,  saddle-cloth,  etc., 
for  aides  will  be  ready  at  1425  New  York  avenue  on  March  2. 
Respectfully, 

(Signed)        J.  T.  FRENCH,  JR., 
First  Lieut.,  Fourth  Artillery,  Aide. 

It  having  been  reported  to  me  that  Governor  Beaver  was  en- 
deavoring to  prevent  my  appointment  on  the  staff  of  the  Grand 
Marshal,  I  sent  him  a  letter  on  February  7  to  find  out  the  truth 
of  the  report,  receiving  the  following  reply  : 

Bellefonte,  Pa.,  February  n,  1893. 
Capt.  George  A.  Armes, 

1405  F  Street,  Washington,  D.  C. : 

Dear  Sir — Your  letter  of  the  7th  inst.  was  received  by  me  this 
morning  on  my  return  home  after  several  days  of  absence.  ^  I 
have  nothing  whatever  to  do  with  the  exercises  attending  the  in- 
auguration of  Hon.  Grover  Cleveland  as  President  of  the  United 
States  on  the  4th  of  March  next.  I  have  not  been  consulted  by 
anyone  upon  the  subject,  nor  have  I  directly  or  indirectly  said  or 
done  anything  in  connection  with  the  exercises  and  ceremonies 
attending  that  event.'  In  fact,  your  letter  is  the  first  intimation 
which  I 'have  had  of  a  personal  kind  that  there  is  to  be  such  a 


636 

ceremony.  I  regret  that  an  unfounded  report  has  caused  you 
any  uneasiness  whatever.  I  have  never  had  the  slightest  desire 
to  do  you  any  injury  in  any  possible  way,  and  if  I  had  ever  had, 
such  a  disposition  would  have  long  since  passed,  your  letter  being 
necessary  to  recall  you  even  to  mind. 

Very  respectfully  yours, 


I  have  not  been  idle  during  the  past  year,  trying  to  secure  my 
appointment  as  Brevet  Lieutenant-Colonel.  Have  called  on  the 
Secretary  of  War  and  the  General  of  the  Army  on  a  number  of 
occasions  and  written  a  large  number  of  letters,  highly  endorsed, 
but  having  failed  to  receive  justice,  do  not  propose  to  give  up 
trying. 


GEORGE  KERK  ARMES. 


OSCAR  ST.  JOHN  ARMES. 


CHAPTER  XXXII. 

January  i,  1894. 

Dressed  in  full  uniform  this  morning.  Met  many  of  my  old 
Army  officer  friends  at  the  War  Department  and  marched  to  the 
White  House  at  11.20  with  General  Schofield  and  staff  in  the  lead. 
Shook  hands  with  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Cleveland.  Afterwards  made  the 
usual  calls  on  my  citizen  friends. 

Gordonsville,  Va.,  January  2,  1894. 

Spent  most  of  last  evening  with  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Wheeler  at  the 
Shoreham,  and  after  attending  to  some  things  at  the  office  ac- 
cepted the  invitation  of  Senator  Charles  J.  Faulkner  to  attend 
his  wedding  at  Hampton,  Va.  I  left  on  the  n  P.  M.  train  for 
Hampton,  and  am  now  waiting  to  change  cars  at  this  place. 

Fortress  Monroe,  Va.,  January  3,  1894. 

After  waiting  nearly  three  hours  at  Gordonsville  last  evening, 
I  boarded  the  Richmond  train,  arriving  here  at  8  o'clock  this  A. 


HON.  C.  J.  FAUL.KNER. 


MRS. 


638 

M.  Met  Senator  Faulkner  at  the  "Hygeia,"  and  he  invited  me  to 
dine  at  his  table  with  his  family.  At  4  P.  M.  we  all  dressed  ready 
for  the  wedding,  which  took  place  at  5  P.  M.  at  the  church.  His 
bride,  Miss  Whiting,  was  attended  by  eight  bridesmaids,  who 
were  as  beautiful  girls  as  could  be  found  in  the  country.  They 
were  :  The  Misses  May  Faulkner,  daughter  of  Judge  K.  Boyd 
Faulkner:  Elsie  and  May  Love,  daughters  of  Dr.  Love,  of  Winches- 
ter, Va. ;  Amelia  Pearson,  of  Kentucky;  Nannie  Watkin,  Annie 
Chisman  and  Lucy  Tabb,  all  of  Hampton,  Va. ;  and  May  Phillips, 
best  girl,  daughter  of  Col.  Phillips,  of  Hampton,  Va.  I  never 
saw  a  bride  lovelier  than  Miss  Whiting.  Extra  police  had  been 
stationed  outside  and  ropes  placed  near  the  church  to  keep  back 
the  crowd  which  had  assembled  from  the  surrounding  country  to 
witness  the  ceremonies.  After  the  wedding  Colonel  Whiting  gave 
a  grand  reception  at  his  house.  A  caterer  from  Baltimore  sup- 
plied the  guests  with  everything  the  market  afforded,  and  no 
grander  wedding  with  more  distinguished  participants  ever  took 
place  in  Eastern  Virginia.  Senator  Faulkner  appeared  like  a 
young  man  of  twenty-five. 

Washington,  January  7,  1894. 

After  dinner  met  Jefferson  M.  Levy  (now  a  member  of  Con- 
gress) of  New  York  at  the  Arlington,  who  invited  Mr.  Gardiner 
and  myself  to  dine  with  him. 

January  12,  1894. 

Quite  a  number  of  parties  called  today  in  relation  to  real  es- 
tate. Had  quite  a  long  interview  with  General  Jeffreys  in  rela- 
tion to  his  son-in-law,  Col.  William  L.  Brown  of  New  York,  who 
expects  to  lease  or  purchase  Vice-President  Morton's  house,  pro- 
vided he  is  elected  to  Congress. 

January  22,   1894. 

I  have  spent  some  time  with  Mr.  (.).  D.  Barret,  General  But- 
ler's attorney  and  partner,  from  whom  I  tried  to  secure  an  option 
on  the  Great  Falls  water  rights,  about  twenty  miles  from  this  city 
on  the  Potomac  river,  for  an  electric  plant  which  I  am  trying  to 
estpHish  there;  but  General  Butler  declined  unless  I  paid  a  large 
sum. 


639 

January  26,  1894. 

Professor  Brown  of  the  National  Observatory  had  quite  a  long 
interview  with  me  at  the  Arlington  this  afternoon  in  relation  to 
the  Great  Falls  property.  Mr.  Orth  and  Mr.  Radford  are  inter- 
ested also. 

January  29,  1894. 

Had  quite  an  interview  with  Senator  C.  H.  Gibson  and  Mr.  F. 
G.  Newlands  in  relation  to  fixing  the  road  or  new  street  from  Con- 
necticut avenue  to  Grant  road.  Called  on  Mrs.  Hicks  this  after- 
noon, and  had  a  very  brilliant  reception.  She  looked  as  young  as 
ever,  and  reminded  me  of  our  meeting  at  Saratoga  some  years 
ago,  when  she  wrote  for  the  press  under  the  name  of  Sophie 
Sparkle. 

February  7,  1894. 

Have  been  engaged  most  of  the  day  securing  signatures  from 
property-owners  for  permission  to  carry  a  street  railroad  up  Sev- 
enteenth street  and  connect  it  with  the  Chevy  Chase  and  Con- 
necticut avenue  extension. 

February  15,  1894. 

After  dinner  last  evening  I  attended  the  Second  Corps  meeting 
at  Willard's  Hall,  General  Batchelder  presiding.  Met  Colonel 
Smith  and  manv  other  old  comrades. 


GEN.  RICHARD  N.  BATCHELDER. 


640 

February  22,  1894. 

Attended  the  nieeeting  of  the  Suns  of  the  American  Revolu- 
tion today,  where  we  elected  Inspector-General  Breckinridge 
president. 

March  17,  1892. 

Had  a  long-  interview  with  Senator  Gibson  today,  who,  with 
the  District  commissioners,  has  agreed  to  assist  me  in  trying  to 
get  the  bill  reported  in  relation  to  carrying  Albemarle  street 
through  to  Grant  road. 

March  29,  1894. 

I  went  to  my  office  in  spite  of  suffering  from  rheumatism,  meet- 
ing Mr.  W.  B.  Moses  and  his  attorney,  Job  Barnard,  who  handed 
me  his  check  for  $4000. 

On  Danville  Train  En  Route  to  Florida, 

April  4,  1894. 

Having  made  arrangements  with  my  friend,  Mr.  Jones,  to  take 
care  of  the  children  during  our  absence,  Lucy  and  I  took  the  5 
P.  M.  train  for  Florida,  where  we  expect  to  remain  a  short  time. 

.  Jacksonville,  April  5,  1894. 

This  is  a  lovely  city,  Lucy  being  very  much  pleased  with  the 
surroundings.  We  have  elegant  rooms  at  the  St.  James,  and 
after  breakfast  today  I  hired  a  buggy,  driving  all  around  the 
country.  Called  on  Mr.  Stockton  and  drove  out  to  Dr.  A.  O. 
Bliss'  beautiful  residence,  where  we  were  presented  with  a  number 
of  fine  oranges.  He  is  one  of  the  successful  business  men  of 
Washington,  owner  of  "Our  Native  Herbs,"  a  medicine  that  has 
proven  of  great  value. 

August  7,  1894. 

Lucy  was  very  much  pleased  with  the  Ponce  de  Leon  Hotel  at 
St.  Augustine,  and  we. obtained  a  number  of  trophies  from  the  old 
settlers  and  the  Spaniards,  who  have  their  stores  filled  with 
curiosities.  W^ent  through  the  old  fort  and  garrison. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  April  15,  1894. 

We  are  back  in  Washington  again  after  a  glorious  trip  of  sight- 
seeing which  we  both  enjoyed,  in  addition  to  an  important  bus- 
iness matter  which  1  am  now  considering. 


64 1 

May  29,  1894. 

I  sent  out  five  hundred  invitations  to  celebrate  my  birthday  last 
evening,  inviting  the  Virginia  Democratic  Association  and  many 
of  my  friends  in  official  Army  and  Navy  life.  About  370  accepted 
and  were  present,  being  entertained  by  the  Mount  Pleasant  Band 
and  Drum  Corps,  with  about  forty  pieces.  This  band  was  organ- 
ized by  Professor  Churchill; who  distinguished  himself  as  a  leader, 
and  knew  how  to  select  attractive  pieces  for  the  entertainment  of 
his  guests.  Speeches  were  made  by  Congressman  C.  H.  Bell  of 
Colorado ;  John  Tweedale,  chief  clerk  of  the  War  Department ; 
Congressman  Matson  of  Missouri,  and  many  others.  There  was 
music,  singing  and  dancing,  and  it  was  after  4  o'clock  before  they 
all  left,  the  tables  having  been  loaded  with  fruits  and  refreshments 
of  all  kinds,  including  Chamberlain  punch  and  beer  on  ice,  coffee, 
chocolate  and  tea.  Arrangements  having  been  made  for  the  cars 
to  run  all  night,  they  remained  at  my  door  until  all  the  guests 
departed. 

The  following  is  from  the  Star  of  June  15,  1894: 

The  Unity  Club  was  entertained  last  Monday  evening  by  Maj. 
and  Mrs.  Geo.  A.  Armes  at  their  country  home,  Fairfield.  The 
speeches  and  recitations  were  given  upon  the  lawn  by  the  light 
of  a  huge  bonfire,  which  illumined  the  grounds.  Among  those 
present  were  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Cherry.  Dr.  Thomas  Robinson  and 
wife,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  M.  M.  Thomas,  Mrs.  Monroe,  Miss  E.  Chase. 
Mrs.  and  Miss  Noud,  Mrs.  Crandall,  Mrs.  Emily  Hort,  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Hodges,  C.  W.  Webster  and  wife,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Fillmore 
Harrison,  Mrs.  Delia  Sheehy,  Miss  Annie  Sheehy,  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
D.  C.  Chapman,  Count  Ivan  de  Mitkiewicz,  Mr.  Shung  Yu  Ting, 
Jos.  J.  Printup,  Mr.  J.  V.  Wiggins,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Charles  Cherry, 
Mr.  Ralph  Jefferson,  Mr.  John  Tweedale,  Mrs.  Pulizzi,  Miss 
Blanche  Pulizzi,  Judge  O.  N.  Riley,  Mr.  J.  Franklin  Philp,  Mrs. 
George  Sheehan,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  J.  B.  Philp,  Mrs.  Sarah  Evans, 
Miss  Clara  Willard,  Dr.  and  Mrs.  V.  Hartleben,  Mrs.  Dr.  Lamb, 
Mrs.  D.  T.  Voorhis,  Mrs.  Beck  of  Nebraska,  Wilbur  Goss,  Mr. 
John  C.  Bell  and  wife  of  Colorado,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  D.  C.  Chanman, 
Misses  May  and  Minnie  Clemens,  Mrs.  George.  A.  Armes,  Dr.  E. 
W.  Euerster,  Miss  Dranev,  Dr.  and  Mrs.  W.  W.  Baker,  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Silas  Boyce.  Mr.  F.  W.  Larner,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hodges, 
Misses  Cecily  and  Ethel  Armes.  Mrs.  M.  D.  Lincoln,  Mr.  Lin- 
coln, Mrs.  M.  Stierlin,  Will  C.  Stierlin,  Mrs.  I.  Cowling,  Miss  Min- 
nie Cowling,  Mrs.  Col.  B.  F.  Winger.  Miss  Winger,  Misses 
Maggie  and  Helen  Kerfoot,  Mrs.  Van  Syckel,  Mrs.  R.  C.  Mo 
Auley,  Mr,  Herman  Schade,  Miss  Schade  and  Mrs,  Marsh, 

41 


642 

Washington,  D.  C,  May  29,  1894. 
My  Dear  Colonel : 

Owing  to  my  absence  from  the  city  from  Friday  night  until 
late  on  Monday,  I  was  unable  to  accept  or  acknowledge  your 
courteous  invitation.  Regretting  my  loss  of  a  pleasant  visit  and 
congratulating  you  on  the  strength  with  which  you  have  borne 
the  weight  of  your  half  century,  I  remain, 
Very  truly  yours, 

(Signed)         WILLIAM  BIRNEY. 

Washington,  D.  C,  May  26,  1894. 
Geo.  A.  Armes,  Esq. : 

Dear  Sir — Yours  of  May  25  received.    I  thank  you  very  much 
for  your  kindness,  but  as  I  have  a  dinner  party  on  hand  for  that 
night,  I  will  be  unable  to  avail  myself  of  your  kind  invitation. 
Yours  very  truly, 

(Signed)        JOHN  F.  WAGGAMAN. 
(Dictated.) 

Chevy  Chase,  Md.,  May  27,  1894. 
Maj.  George  A.  Armes, 

Fairfield,  D.  C. : 

My  Dear  Sir — I  regret  exceedingly  that  a  previous  engage- 
ment prevents  my  acceptance  of  your  kind  invitaton  for  tomorrow 
evening,  but  it  cannot  prevent  my  congratulating  you  on  having 
reached  your  fiftieth  milestone  with  so  little  of  the  wear  and  tear 
of  life  apparently  affecting  you.  It  was  a  surprise  to  me  to  learn 
that  you  were  anything  near  fifty.  That  you  may  continue  in 
good  health  and  prosperity  is  the  sincere  wish  of, 

Yours  truly, 

(Signed)         RALPH  JEFFERSON. 

Office  of  Commissioners  of  the  District  of  Columbia, 

Washington,  May  31,  1894. 
Maj.  George  A.  Armes: 

Dear  Sir — I  regret  that  I  did  not  receive  your  kind  invitation 
for  Monday  evening  last  until  it  was  too  late  to  advise  you  of  my 
inability  to  be  present.  My  wife  has  been  quite  sick  for  a  number 
of  weeks,  and  on  that  account  I  have  been  unable  to  accept  any 
invitations.  Thanking  you  for  the  courtesy  of  your  invitation, 
I  am, 

Yours  very  truly, 

(Signed)         GEO.  TRUESDELL, 


643 

United  States  Senate, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  May  28,  1894. 
Mr.  George  A.  Armes, 

Washington,  D.  C. : 

Dear  Sir — I  am  in  receipt  of  your  invitation  of  the  25th  inst. 
inviting  me  to  be  present  at  a  meeting  of  the  Virginia  Demo- 
cratic Association  on  Monday  evening,  May  28,  1894.  Please  ac- 
cept my  thanks  for  your  courtesy.  I  regret  that  anticipated  en- 
gagements will  prevent  my  acceptance  of  your  courtesy. 
I  remain,  very  respectfully, 

(Signed)         DAVID  B.  HILL. 
July  14,  1894. 

Last  evening  just  before  returning  home  from  my  office  I  was 
met  at  the  Shoreham  by  Congressman  Dan  Lockwood,  who 
wanted  to  know  what  in  the  "D—  "  I  had  been  doing.  I  was 
surprised  and  asked  him  what  he  meant.  He  wanted  to  know  if 
I  had  seen  the  Evening  Star.  I  told  him  "no,"  when  he  handed 
it  to  me.  It  contained  a  large  heading,  "Mrs.  G.  A.  Armes  Pleads 
for  a  Divorce,"  over  half  a  column  being  taken  up  with  the  de- 
tails. I  was  thunderstruck  at  the  article,  and  immediately  drove 
home,  where  I  met  my  wife  at  the  front  door  as  usual.  I  asked 
her  what  she  had  been  doing  through  the  day,  and  she  replied, 
"Nothing  special."  I  said,  "Have  you  seen  the  Star?"  and  she 
said  "No."  When  I  showed  it  to  her  she  colored  up  a  little,  stat- 
ing that  she  "did  not  expect  that  to  be  put  in  the  newspapers,  but 
supposed  that  my  lawyers  desired  an  advertisement  and  thought 
that  would  be  a  good  way  to  get  it,"  and  seemed  to  treat  it  as  a 
big  joke.  She  stated  also  that  she  had  told  me  on  several  occa- 
sions that  she  intended  to  apply  for  a  separation  unless  certain 
very  petty  conditions  were  complied  with.  After  a  few  minutes' 
conversation  we  sat  down  to  the  table  to  dinner,  and  matters 
passed  off  as  if  nothing  had  happened. 

July  1 6,  1894. 

Had  quite  a  long  talk  with  Mr.  McClelland  and  Mr.  Lee,  who 
were  in  my  office;  also  with  Mr.  Cole  in  relation  to  my  wife's  ap- 
plication for  a  separation,  and  I  was  advised  to  call  on  the  priest 
and  have  him  settle  the  matter. 

July  25,  1894. 

Mr.  Beall  and  Dr.  Chappel  spent  last  evening  with  me  trying  to 
get  Lucy  to  agree  to  withdraw  her  suit  for  separation.  Not  being 
successful,  they  left  some  time  after  n  o'clock.  I  appeared  before 
Judge  Hagner  today,  and  the  case  was  postponed.  I  called  on 
several  of  the  priests  in  the  past  few  days,  who  agreed  to  consult 


644 

with  Lucy  and  advise  her  not  to  insist  upon  a  separation.    Fathers 
Mackin  and  Lee  no  doubt  did  as  agreed,  but  were  unsuccessful. 

July  26,  1894. 

Appeared  before  Judge  Hagner  at  10  this  A.  M.  with  Mr. 
Mackall  and  Richard  Beall,  counsel,  Lewis  &  Cook  being  for  my 
wife,  and  managed  to  get  a  postponement  until  August  I. 

August  7,  1894. 

Took  Lucy  out  driving  today  in  the  buggy,  going  by  way  of 
Tennallytown  and  coining  back  by  way  of  Rock  Creek,  and  this 
afternoon  Mr.  Lewis,  her  attorney,  came  out  to  see  her  and  forbid 
her  having  any  conversation  or  going  out  with  me  anywhere. 

September  29,  1894. 

Had  quite  a  time  with  Sister  Angelica  at  the  Holy  Cross  Acad- 
emy last  evening  on  account  of  her  misrepresenting  to  me  that 
my  daughter  was  not  in  the  convent.  Had  a  talk  with  Father 
Barry  and  Father  Stafford  this  afternoon,  who  both  agreed  not  to 
marry  my  daughter  without  my  consent. 

October  i,  1894. 

I  went  to  the  City  Hall  and  entered  a  protest  against  the  issuing 
of  license  for  the  marriage  of  my  oldest  daughter,  Cecily.  A  lady 

friend  of  mine  informed  me 
that  they  were  at  the  convent 
| '  last  evening  and  my  daughter 
was  on  the  third  floor,  back 
room,  preparing  her  wedding 
suit,  and  intended  to  be  mar- 
ried at  the  first  opportunity. 
She  stated  that  the  Sisters  of 
the  Holy  Cross  had  given  in- 
structions to  tell  everyone  who 
inquired  for  her  that  she  had 
left  the  convent  and  was  not  in 
the  building. 

Cecily  was  married  to  her 
fiance,  Herbert  Claude,  later 
by  Fathers  Barry  and  Stafford, 
notwithstanding  they  agreed, 
both  of  them,  not  to  perform 
the  ceremony.  I  had  agreed 
that  if  my  daughter  would  post- 
CI.AUDK.  pOne  tiie  marriage  for  four  or 


645 

six  months  and  she  then  knew  Claude  well  enough,  I  would  give 
my  consent. 

Warrenton,  Va.,  October  3,  1894. 

Yesterday  afternoon  I  took  Ethel  and  little  Lucy  to  the  city 
and  purchased  them  an  outfit  necessary  for  boarding-school,  and 

left  at  9  this  A.  M.  for  this  place. 
They  are  now  assigned  to  good  rooms 
in  the  institution,  Professor  Butler 
taking  a  great  interest  in  them.  Dur- 
ing the  day  I  took  them  around 
through  the  city,  meeting  Colonel 
Gaines,  the  mayor,  and  Dr.  Maddox. 
This  is  a  nice  place  for  a  school,  and  I 
believe  they  will  greatly  improve  by 
remaining  here  a  few  months. 

Washington,  D.  C,  October  9,  1894. 

Mrs.  Professor  Butler  called  upon  me  today  at  the  office,  where 
we  had  a  long  talk  in  regard  to  the  girls,  who  are  getting  along 
nicely  at  her  school. 

Warrenton,  Va.,  October  13,  1894. 

I  was  ordered  to  be  at  the  court  this  morning  by  9  o'clock,  with 
Judge  Cox  presiding,  and  after  meeting  Lucy's  counsel,  they 
were  not  ready  to  go  on  with  the  case.  I  soon  learned  that  she 
had  started  for  Warrenton  for  the  purpose  of  bringing  back  Ethel 
and  little  Lucy.  I  boarded  the  train,  greatly  surprising  her  when 
she  learned  that  I  was  going  to  Warrenton.  We  landed  there 
together  and  dined  with  Professor  and  Mrs.  Butler.  She  became 
very  much  reconciled,  and  decided  to  let  Ethel  and  Lucy  remain 
there,  both  of  us  returning  on  the  same  train. 

October  20,  1894. 

It  was  i  this  A.M.  before  I  returned  from  the  banquet  given  by 
the  Sons  of  the  American  Revolution,  and  we  all  had  a  very  pleas- 
ant time. 

October  26,1894. 

I  took  Oscar  on  the  train  to  Charlotte  Hall  this  morning  in 
order  to  put  him  to  school  for  a  short  time,  and  during  my  ab- 
sence my  wife's  lawyers,  Cook  &  Lewis,  advised  her  to  take  the 
children  and  leave  Fairfield  and  make  their  home  somewhere  else, 


646 

on  the  ground  that  they  could  not  obtain  a  separation  while  we 
were  living  together. 

October  27,  1894. 

I  was  surprised  last  night  to  find  my  wife  and  children  gone, 
but  one  of  the  servants  gave  me  the  address  where  she  had  moved, 
taking  trunks,  blankets,  books,  etc.,  that  she  desired  to  use  until 
the  case  was  settled. 

November  27,  1894. 

My  wife's  lawyers,  failing  to  accomplish  anything  in  regard 
to  the  separation  and  continually  calling  on  her  for  payments  in 
order  to  go  on  with  the  case,  caused  her  to  have  a  sort  of  con- 
tempt for  their  management,  and  she  came  to  my  office  today, 
where,  with  the  assistance  of  Mr.  C.  G.  Lee,  an  agreement  was 
fixed  up  for  her  to  allow  the  children  to  return  to  Fairfield  and 
give  up  her  quarters  in  the  city. 

November  28,  1894. 

I  was  in  court  this  A.  M.  with  Mr.  J.  H.  Ralston,  who  stated 
to  Judge  Cox  that  my  wife  had  withdrawn  the  suit  for  separation. 
Her  lawyers,  Cook  &  Lewis,  were  almost  paralyzed  at  such  an 
announcement,  having  given  her  instructions  not  to  come  near 
me,  and  upon  my  paying  the  clerk's  expenses  and  the  court  fees, 
$37.65,  returned  home  with  me  in  the  tea-cart. 

December  25,  1894. 

My  wife,  Ethel,  George,  Oscar,  Lucy,  Dots,  Edith,  Willie  and 
Grover  Cleveland  took  Christmas  dinner  with  me  today,  and  all 
enjoyed  it,  as  I  had  a  fifteen-pound  young  turkey  cooked  by  Mrs. 
Webb  in  elegant  style,  and  this  afternoon  has  passed  off  very 
pleasantly. 

December  31,  1894. 

This  being  the  last  day  of  the  year,  I  have  been  very  busy  set- 
tling up  my  accounts,  and  in  spite  of  the  interference  of  the  priest 
and  outsiders,  my  family  is  not  entirely  broken  up,  and  I  am 
doing  everything  I  can  in  my  power  to  prevent  it,  lawyers  to  the 
contrary  notwithstanding,  who  have  induced  her  to  believe  she 
would  be  better  off  by  employing  them  to  secure  a  separation. 

The  following  correspondence  will  further  illustrate  the  events 
of  the  year  briefly  narrated  in  the  foregoing  extracts  from  my 
diarv : 


647 

Washington,  D,  C.,  May  18,  1894. 
To  the  Adjutant-General  U.  S.  A., 

Washington,  D.  C. : 

Sir — My  name  not  appearing  among  the  list  of  officers  recently 
breveted  for  Indian  service,  I  respectfully  submit  the  following 
in  addition  to  my  reports  that  may  be  on  file  in  your  department, 
and  call  attention  to  that  part  of  the  letter  from  General  Han- 
cock where  he  mentions  that  he  had  recommended  me  for  Brevet 
Lieutenant-Colonel  for  my  first  fight  with  the  Cheyennes,  which 
is  the  fight  where  I  was  wounded,  and  mentioned  in  the  letter 
from  General  Grierson,  which  fact  I  desire  inserted  in  the  com- 
mission, if  one  is  granted  for  said  action. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES, 
Late  Capt.  Tenth  Cav.,  Brev.  Maj.,  retired. 

Headquarters  of  the  Army,  Adjutant- General's  Office, 

Washington,  June  28,  1894. 
Capt.  George  A.  Armes, 

U.  S.  Army,  retired, 

No.  1405  F  Street,  Washington,  D.  C. : 

Sir — in  reply  to  your  inquiry  of  the  loth  ult.  in  the  matter  of 
your  brevet  for  gallantry  in  action  against  Indians  August  2,  1867, 
I  have  the  honor  to  invite  your  attention  to  the  adverse  decision 
contained  in  letter  of  July  15,  1890,  from  this  office,  which  is  ad- 
hered to. 

Very  respectfully, 

(Signed)        J.  C.  GILMORE. 

Angel  Island,  Cal.,  September  19,  1894. 
My  Dear  Major  Armes : 

You  generally  have  the  inside  news  in  Washington,  and  I  wish 
vou  would  write  me  .your  views  as  to  the  next  Brigadier.  I  hear 
is  strong,  and  recently  that  —  -  is  after  it. 

I  fear  that  I  am  "not  in  it"  from  some  reports  thatjnan  - 
of  Texas  made  against  me  of  "offensive  partisanship." 

It  was  a  lie  of  the  blackest  kind,  but  it  did  its  work.    Hope  you 

are  flourishing. 

Sincerely  yours, 

WM.  R.  SHAFTER, 

Colonel  First  Infantry. 

Proctor,  Vt.,  October  2,  1894. 

DTrspColPettthrGeenSera,  Schofield  when  in  Washington    but  he 
gave  me  no  definite  reply  further  than  to  say,  as  I  knew,  he  held 


648 

that  it  was  strictly  a  military  matter  in  the  hands  of  the  Com- 
mander of  the  Army.  As  I  told  you,  he  considers  that  it  is  strictly 
a  military  matter,  and  I  have  never  known  him  to  pay  the  slight- 
est attention  to  any  influence  or  recommendation.  I  did  not  get 
an  impression  that  was  favorable,  but  still,  he  did  not  say.  I  shall 
be  much  pleased  if  he  decides  in  your  favor. 
Very  truly  yours, 

(Signed)         REDFIELD  PROCTOR. 

Maj.  George  A.  Armes, 

Dear  Sir — The  Cardinal  received  your  letter  of  October  29, 
in  which  you  complain  of  Sister  Angelica  interfering  in  your 
domestic  affairs.  After  investigation,  the  Cardinal  finds  that 
your  wife  asked  Sister  Angelica  to  take  your  daughter  into  the 
convent.  Sister  Angelica  says  she  cannot  be  blamed  for  the  mar- 
riage of  your  daughter,  as  she  is  not  responsible  for  it. 

The  Cardinal  regrets  very  much  that  there  should  be  a  disa- 
greement between  yourself  and  Sister  Angelica. 
Yours  very  respectfully, 

WM.  T.  RUSSELL. 

(Copy.) 

Tennallytown,  D.  C.,  November  8,  1894. 
Mrs.  Lucy  Armes, 

1303  R  Street,  N.  W. : 

Dear  Madam — Your  letter  of  the  6th  inst.  reached  me  yester- 
day. I  see  how  difficult  it  will  be,  situated  as  you  are,  to  raise  the 
money  needed.  Miss  Mary  French  has  the  money,  but  whether 
she  will  lend  it  is  another  question.  I  approached  her  for  a  loan 
for  a  gentleman  in  town  here,  but  she  refused  to  loan  money  to 
her  neighbors.  The  Buckman  family  are  great  friends  of  hers, 
and  they  may  be  able  to  do  something  with  her  for  you.  Then 
Mrs.  Shoemaker  has  money,  and  may  be  willing  to  do  this  kind- 
ness. Should  either  of  them  ask  my  advice  about  loaning  to  you 
I  will  urge  them  to  do  so. 

I  sincerely  hope  that  you  will  get  through  successfully,  both  for 
your  sake  and  that  of  the  children. 

I  remain,  your  brother  in  Christ, 

J.  M.  BARRY. 

No.  1405  F  Street,  N.  W., 

Washington,  D.  C.,  December  4,  1894. 
Cardinal  Gibbons : 

Reverend  and  Dear  Sir — Yours  of  October  31  was  duly  re- 
ceived. Important  matters  have  occupied  my  time,  or  I  would 
have  answered  it  before. 


649 

1  hope  you  will  not  allow  the  misrepresentations  made  to  you 
by  Sister  Angelica  to  remain  unacted  upon  without  further  inves- 
tigation, giving- me  an  opportunity  to  furnish  further  evidence  if 
necessary. 

I  enclose  a  slip  from  the  Washington  Times  showing  the  des- 
perate effort  being  used  to  prevent,  if  possible,  the  removal  of 
Father  Barry,  who,  I  am  confident,  after  a  careful  investigation 
will  be  proved  unfit  to  be  trusted  in  a  responsible  place.  Any 
person  who  will  take  advantage  of  a  position  entrusted  to  him  to 
use  it  in  meddling  in  family  affairs  and  in  bringing  ruin,  conten- 
tion and  disgrace  upon  a  family  is  unfit  to  be  trusted  where  he 
can  do  further  harm.  The  sooner  Father  Barry  is  sent  from  here 
the  better  it  will  be  for  the  interest  of  the  Church. 

Hoping  it  will  not  be  necessary  for  me  to  publish  the  charges 
against  Fathers  Barry  and  Stafford  and  Sister  Angelica,  I  remain, 
Your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         GEORGE  A.  ARMES. 


Fairfield— My  Residence. 


CHAPTER  XXXIII. 

January  i,  1895. 

The  sun  came  out  clear  and  bright  this  morning,  and  in  full- 
dress  uniform  I  met  the  Army  officers  at  the  War  Department. 
They  called  on  General  Schofield  for  the  last  time  as  Lieutenant- 
General  of  the  Army,  as  he  is  to  be  retired  this  year.  He  met  me 
very  cordially,  shaking  hands,  and  then  headed  the  column, 
which  marched  to  the  White  House,  where  we  all  shook  hands 
with  Mr.  Cleveland  and  his  wife  and  the  Cabinet  ladies.  After 
meeting  a  large  number  of  my  friends  in  the  East  Room,  I  took 
George  and  Oscar,  my  two  oldest  boys,  in  the  carriage,  and  we 
called  on  other  friends. 

January  3,  1895. 

Met  Senator  Gibson  at  the  Shoreham  last  evening,  who  has 
agreed  to  take  an  active  part,  with  his  senator  friends,  in  insisting 
upon  General  Schofield's  approving  my  bill  for  brevet,  as  recom- 
mended by  Generals  Hancock  and  Sherman. 

January  6,  1895. 

Spent  most  of  last  evening  at  the  Arlington,  in  company  with 
Colonel  Stump,  Mr.  Sieger  and  several  other  gentlemen.  Had 
quite  a  long  interview  with  Senator  Proctor,  who  appears  very 
friendly  to  me.  He  stated  that  he  had  seen  General  Schofield 
about  my  brevet  Lieutenant-Colonelcy,  and  that  he  did  every- 
thing he  possibly  could  to  induce  him  to  approve  it. 

January  8,  1895. 

This  afternoon  I  called  on  a  number  of  senators  at  the  Capitol, 
who  strongly  endorsed  an  application  to  General  Schofield  re- 
questing him  to  send  in  my  name  to  the  Senate  for  brevet  Lieu- 
tenant-Colonelcv,  as  follows : 


.,   8th,   1895. 

Gen.    John  M.    Schofield,    U.    S.    A. 
Dear    Sir:- 

I   have  known  Maj       George  A.*    Armes   for 
over    fifteen  years   and  will    cons  icier   it    a 
personal    favor    if  you  will    have  his   name 
sent    to  the  Senate    for      Brevet.    Lieut.    Col. 
as  recommended  by  Maj  .    Gen*   W.    S.   Hancock, 
August    20th,    1867. 

Very  respectfully, 


p       n  -l^V/THC 

-*^U^^^7 

co^^^M^fr 


653 


/^  jtf 


654 


655 


cj  ^Kpi^v 


.January  V, 


Conor ol   John  V.    Gchofielu, 

U.S.      Array. 
Dciir  Sir: 

Having   knov/n  Maj.   Goo.    A.    Arrnec,   U.S.A.    for   several  years  as  a  gallant 

unO  nor i tor iouB  officer   and  gentleman,  v;o  ask,  as  a  personal   favor   to  ua that 

you  hnvc   liir      nominated     for  Bvt.   Lt.    Col.    U.S4   Army,   as  reconnonded  by  Generals 
Huncc/ok  i  Shernan  An,-uat    1807. 

V/c  ask   tliia  i  pon  the  ground   that   he  has  earned  it,    is  legally  entitled 
to    it,    arid   should   have    it. 


656 


657 


658 

The  following  explain  themselves : 

Fort  Marker,  Kan.,  August  26,  1867. 
Governor  Crawford: 

Captain  Armes,  Tenth  Cavalry,  with  one  company  of  his  regi- 
ment and  two  companies  of  the  Eighteenth  Kansas  Volunteers, 
was  attacked  on  the  2ist  inst.,  at  noon,  on  the  Republican  river 
by  a  large  force  of  Indians,  reported  to  be  800  to  1000  in  number, 
and  were  engaged  until  the  night  of  the  22d.  Our  troops,  about 
150  in  number,  covering  a  wide  space  of  country,  were  finally 
forced  to  retire,  with  a  loss  of  three  men  killed  and  left  on  the  field, 
and  thirty-five  wounded,  who  were  brought  in.  The  command 
also  lost  forty  horses  during  the  engagement.  Captain  Armes  re- 
ports a  large  number  of  Indians  killed  and  wounded;  Lieutenant 
Price  of  the  Eighteenth  Kansas  says  about  150.  The  command 
encamped  about  three  miles  from  Fort  Harker  last  night.  Major 
Moore  of  the  Eighteenth  Kansas,  with  the  remainder  of  the  bat- 
talion, and  Major  Elliott  of  the  Seventh  Cavalry,  with  about  200 
men  of  that  regiment,  started  this  morning  for  the  Indians. 

WIN  FIELD  S.  HANCOCK, 

Maj.-Gen.,  U.  S.  A. 


659 

January  9,  1895. 

Called  on  a  number  of  members  of  Congress  today  whom  I 
have  known  for  a  long  time  and  who  strongly  endorsed  me  to 
General  Schofield. 

January  22,  1895. 

I  have  been  giving  special  attention  to  my  application  for  brevet 
Lieutenant-Colonelcy,  and  have  called  on  General  Schofield  and 
written  quite  a  number  of  communications  to  the  War  Depart- 
ment in  relation  to  it.  During  an  interview  with  General  Scho- 
field I  presented  a  petition  from  the  senators  and  members  of 
Congress  requesting  him  to  forward  my  name  to  the  Senate,  but 
he  informed  me  that  I  ought  to  know  better  than  to  try  to  use 
influence  with  him,  the  General  of  the  Army,  to  induce  him  to  act 
in  his  duties,  implying  that  members  and  senators  had  no  influ- 
ence over  him ;  that  they  were  like  mushrooms,  here  today  and 
gone  tomorrow,  and  that  he  was  the  General  of  the  Army,  in  a 
position  for  life,  and  that  the  recommendations  or  petitions  of 
members  and  senators  would  have  no  weight  with  him.  He  de- 
clined to  pay  any  attention  to  my  endorsements.  After  quite  an 
argument,  he  stated  that  his  principal  reason  for  not  sending  my 
name  up  was  on  account  of  my  trouble  with  his  friend,  Governor 
Beaver  of  Pennsylvania,  and  suggested  that  I  write  a  letter  to 
him  to  get  his  consent  to  sending  my  name  up  before  he  would 
take  any  action  in  the  matter.  I  reminded  him  of  the  fact  that 
I  had  been  punished  by  a  court-martial  on  account  of  my  resent- 
ing Beaver's  insult,  and  that  that  matter  had  already  been  settled. 
I  did  not  see  what  his  present  action  had  to  do  with  that  affair, 
considering  that  I  had  been  recommended  for  brevet  Lieutenant- 
Colonel  on  account  of  meritorious  conduct  in  an  Indian  engage- 
ment, where  I  had  been  wounded  and  had  lost  several  of  the  men, 
but  had  saved  my  command  from  being  massacred  by  an  over- 
whelming number  of  Indians  by  using  strategy  and  discretion, 
which  warranted  recognition  by  my  superior  officer. 

February  5,  1895. 

After  thinking  over  the  matter  of  my  interview  with  General 
Schofield,  I  sent  Governor  Beaver  a  letter  pertaining  to  that  in- 
terview, as  to  his  objection  to  my  being  recognized  by  the  War 
Department,  etc. 


66o 

February  8,  1895. 

I  received  the  desired  letter  from  General  Beaver  this  morning, 
in  reply  to  mine  of  the  5th  inst.,  when  I  immediately  called  at  the 
War  Department  to  see  General  Schofield  and  find  out  if  he  had 
received  anything  from  General  Beaver  .  His  brother,  who  is  act- 
ing as  his  door-keeper,  declined  to  allow  me  to  see  him,  stating 
that  if  any  communication  had  been  received  he  would  know  it, 
but  I  managed  to  get  an  interview  with  the  General,  who  informed 
me  that  he  had  received  an  endorsement  on  the  letter  I  had  writ- 
ten, and  he  would  take  immediate  steps  in  regard  to  the  matter. 

February  13,  1895. 

Not  having  heard  anything  from  General  Schofield,  I  called  at 
his  office  again  today,  when  he  informed  me  that  he  had. written 
to  Colonel  Grierson  and  some  others  in  relation  to  my  fight  with 
the  Indians.  Feeling  that  he  was  doing  something  underhanded, 
I  mentioned  the  conversation  I  had  had  with  him  the  other  day 
to  one  or  two  senators  and  members  of  Congress,  who  became 
very  indignant  about  his  failing  to  give  attention  to  their  request, 
and  satisfied  me  that  they  would  soon  find  out  Schofield's  reason 
for  not  doing  so. 

February  23,  1895. 

Having  been  informed  by  one  or  two  members  and  senators 
who  had  seen  General  Schofield  that  he  had  secured  affidavits  of 
a  number  of  soldiers  to  my  discredit,  I  immediately  called  on  the 
General  for  a  copy,  or  permission  to  see  these  affidavits,  which  he 
refused  me,  but  upon  application  to  Secretary  Lamont  it  was  im- 
mediately ordered  that  copies  be  furnished. 

September  27,  1895. 

In  order  that  I  could  have  an  interview  and  explanation  with 
General  Schofield  before  his  retirement,  I  made  up  my  mind  to 
call  on  him  this  afternoon,  but  before  doing  so  I  wrote  a  letter,  in 
order  that  I  could  leave  it  with  him  in  case  he  declined  to  see  me. 
I  invited  a  friend  of  mine,  the  president  of  one  of  our  street  rail- 
roads, to  accompany  me  to  the  War  Department,  as  I  desired 
him  to  be  present  during  the  interview,  if  granted  one.  Meeting 
the  messenger  at  the  door,  I  sent  in  my  card,  which  was  soon 
returned,  with  the  information  that  the  General  was  engaged, 
when  I  immediately  handed  the  messenger  the  letter,  requesting 


66 1 

him  to  give  it  in  person  to  General  Schofield.  After  waiting  a 
few  minutes,  and  General  Schofield  not  sending  for  me,  my 
friend  and  I  left  the  Department.  This  was  between  the  hours  of 
3  and  4  in  the  afternoon. 

September  28,  1895. 

After  leaving  the  War  Department  yesterday  afternoon,  my 
friend,  Mr.  H.  Miller,  who  had  accompanied  me  there,  parted 
from  me,  and  I  returned  to  my  office,  transacted  some  business, 
and  then  returned  to  my  house  on  Albemarle  street.  While  read- 
ing the  Evening  Star  in  my  library,  after  dinner,  between  8  and  9 
o'clock,  two  officers  in  uniform,  with  their  side  arms  and  pistols, 
suddenly  appeared,  having  come  through  the  kitchen,  dining- 
room  and  into  the  library,  when  one  of  them  suddenly  spoke  to 
me,  saying,  "Major  Armes,  I  have  come  to  place  you  in  close 
arrest  (No.  24),  by  order  of  the  Secretary  of  War,  and  am  di- 
rected to  take  you  to  the  Washington  Barracks  and  have  you  con- 
fined in  the  guardhouse  immediately.  I  at  once  requested  his 
name,  which  he  gave  as  Lieut.  A.  S.  Cummings,  Fourth  U.  S.  Ar^ 
tillery,  introducing  his  friend,  Lieut.  G.  G.  Heiner  of  the  same 
regiment.  Upon  asking  them  to  be  seated,  they  declined,  and 
after  stating  that  I  needed  to  change  my  clothing  for  a  heavier 
suit  to  go  to  the  guardhouse,  naturally  a  cold  and  disagreeable 
place,  consent  was  given  me  to  go  upstairs  and  make  the  change, 
they  both  taking  seats,  after  being  introduced  to  my  family,  who 
entertained  them  during  my  absence.  Upon  my  return,  I  offered 
them  cigars  and  requested  to  know  if  they  intended  to  march  to 
the  barracks  or  go  on  the  cars.  They  stated  that  they  had  a  post 
ambulance,  and  that  the  men  whom  they  had  brought  out  with 
them,  and  who  surrounded  the  house,  armed  and  equipped  with 
their  Winchesters  and  a  large  supply  of  ammunition,  would  go 
back  in  the  cars.  Upon  my  way  through  the  city  to  the  barracks 
we  drove  in  front  of  my  attorney's  house  and  stopped  for  a  mo- 
ment, requesting  him  to  come  to  the  barracks  at  once.  Upon 
reaching  the  Arsenal,  I  asked  who  was  in  command.  Being  in- 
formed that  Colonel  Closson,  Fourth  Artillery,  was  the  com- 
manding officer,  I  requested  to  see  him  at  once,  when  I  was  told 
that  it  would  be  impossible  to  see  him  before  10  o'clock  tomor- 
row morning,  he  having  gone  to  his  private  quarters,  to  which  I 
requested  to  be  driven,  and  was  informed  that  he  would  not  see 
me;  but,  upon  insisting,  Captain  Cummings  drove  to  his  resi- 


662 

dcnce,  and  soon  announced  that  the  Colonel  would  see  me.  After 
an  introduction,  the  Colonel  remarked  that  his  sympathy  was  with 
me,  but  his  orders  were  such  that  I  had  to  remain  jn  the  garrison, 
but  should  be  treated  the  same  as  any  other  officer  of  the  Army 
under  the  circumstances,  and  directed  Captain  Cummings  to  as- 
sign me  quarters  and  invite  me  in  to  the  officers'  mess,  with  in- 
structions that  if  anyone  should  call  they  should  be  admitted. 
After  reaching  the  reading-room  at  the  Bachelor's  quarters  quite 
a  number  of  the  officers  of  the  garrison  called  immediately, 
and  I  was  agreeably  entertained  by  everyone.  Soon  my  attorney 
appeared,  and  we  decided  to  apply  for  a  writ  of  habeas  corpus, 
and  in  the  meanwhile  a  number  of  reporters  and  correspondents 
of  different  papers  called  for  interviews,  which  I  gave. 


The  Arrest.  Released  by  Justice  Bradley. 


663 

It  must  have  been  2  o'clock  this  morning  before  I  retired,  hav- 
ing been  highly  entertained  last  evening.  At  10  o'clock  I  was  in- 
vited to  breakfast  with  the  officers  and  their  ladies,  to  whom  I 
was  introduced,  and  treated  very  pleasantly  by  all  present.  At  1 1 
o'clock  an  order  appeared  for  me  to  be  produced  before  Justice 
Bradley,  and  I  appeared  with  my  counsel,  Mr.  Ralston  and  Mr. 
Siddons,  and  Mr.  E.  L.  McClelland,  who  agreed  to  go  my  bail,  if 
necessary,  for  any  amount  required  by  the  judge.  After  a  short 
argument,  I  was  released,  without  bail,  to  appear  at  any  time  nec- 
essary before  the  court,  and  was  at  liberty  to  go  where  I  pleased. 

October  10,  1895. 

The  habeas  corpus  case  was  heard  today.  In  his  decision 
Judge  Bradley  said : 

"The  arrest  and  taking  of  Armes  into  custody,  carrying  him 
away  from  home  into  barracks  and  holding  him  in  close  arrest 
without  antecedent  charge  of  crime  preferred  in  any  way  against 
him  was  and  is  unjust,  unlawful,  arbitrary,  tyrannical  and  capri- 
cious on  the  part  of  General  Schofield  in  whatever  capacity  he 
acted,  whether  acting  as  Lieutenant-General  or  acting  as  Secre- 
tary of  War." 

After  my  release  by  Judge  Bradley  all  the  newspapers  through- 
out the  country  seemed  to  be  filled  with  accounts  of  the  Schofield 
matter.  His  picture,  as  well  as  mine,  had  gone  all  over  the 
country. 

October  27,  1895. 

Took  Ethel,  George  and  several  of  the  children  to  see  Stuart 
Robson  last  evening,  and  this  afternoon  drove  out  with  Mr.  Rob- 
son  and  Mr.  Haden.  Called  by  C.  C.  Lancaster's,  who  is  now 
living  at  the  Wormley  Place. 

November  18,  1895. 

Had  quite  a  talk  with  Colonel  Ainsworth  at  the  War  Depart- 
ment, who  has  been  very  friendly  disposed,  assisting  me  by  fur- 
nishing copies  of  papers  that  I  need. 

November  29,  1895. 

After  dinner  I  returned  to  the  city  and  called  at  the  Shoreham 
on  Mr.  Phillips,  who  invited  Mr.  Russell,  General  Miles  and  Gen- 
eral Smith  to  his  table,  where  we  had  quite  an  interesting  con- 
versation for  several  hours.  Mr.  Thos.  Hyde  kindly  lent  me 
$200  today  on  my  note  for  thirty  days,  without  security. 


^  3S£fc=  ^^r^zr^^f"  Ag 


Age  17.  Lieut,  of  1 6 ,  Va.  Vols .  fg^J 


Age  2  |,  Capt.  IO,U.S.Cav  n  /  ^  Ade  25,  Caph  and 

n^r-U^A^     A       26    Q     f    ,0iU.S.Cav.L          .Brevet  Major- 
"^  and  Brevet  Majir  U."  A    U 


665 

December  31,  1895. 

During  the  past  year  I  have  had  quite  a  number  of  real  estate 
deals,  but  spent  the  greater  part  of  my  time  in  trying  to  get  my 
brevet  promotion  settled.  As  General  Schofield  and  his  friends 
have  the  inside  track  and  the  determination  to  prevent,  if  pos- 
sible, my  receiving  the  justice  due  me  at  the  War  Department,  it 
will  take  some  time  to  get  rid  of  the  whole  ring,  a  portion  of  which 
still  remains  on  duty.  As  my  wife  and  I  have  had  a  satisfactory 
understanding  in  relation  to  the  separation  matter,  I  have  been 
in  the  courts  on  her  account  less  frequently  this  year  than  last. 
As  there  has  been  a  lull  in  real  estate,  I  have  not  made  more  than 
$2500,  besides  expenses,  during  the  whole  year. 

The  communications  and  official  papers  which  elucidate  the 
transactions  of  the  year  follow  in  chronological  order.  They  will 
show  to  what  depths  an  unscrupulous  official  will  descend  in  order 
to  ruin  the  fair  fame  of  a  person  against  whom  he  may  hold  a 
grudge.  They  also,  in  a  wonderful  way,  enforce  the  old  adages 
that  "Murder  will  out"  and  "Truth  crushed  to  earth  will  rise 
again :" 

Bellefonte,  Pa.,  February  7,  1895. 
Capt.  George  A.  Armes, 

1405  F  Street,  Washington,  D.  C. : 

Sir — Your  letter  of  the  5th  inst.  has  been  received.  I  have 
written  General  Schofield,  enclosing  your  letter,  and  saying  to 
him  substantially  that,  if  you  are  entitled  to  the  distinction 
claimed,  your  personal  treatment  of  me  should  not  weigh  in  the 
matter,  inasmuch  as  that  has  been  disposed  of  by  another  tri- 
bunal, and  saying  that  I  have  no  personal  objections  to  urge  in 
the  premises. 

Very  respectfully  yours, 

(Signed)        JAMES  A.  BEAVER. 

Headquarters  of  the  Army, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  February  15,  1895. 

To  the  Honorable  the  Secretary  of  War : 
*****,****** 

Sir Recently,  in  consequence  of  numerous  appeals  that  have 

been  made  to  me  for  reconsideration  of  the  case  of  Captain  Armes, 
notably  a  communication  signed  by  a  large  number  of  members 
of  both  Houses  of  Congress,  asking  me  as  "a  personal  favor"  to 
have  the  name  of  Captain  Armes  sent  to  the  Senate  for  brevet,  I 


666 

have  again  very  carefully  considered  this  entire  subject,  and  beg 
leave  to  submit  it  for  your  consideration  and  action. 

Of  course,  whatever  action  I  feel  compelled  to  take  in  a  matter 
of  this  kind  must  be  regarded  as  a  solemn  official  duty,  an  action 
which  cannot  by  any  possibility  be  taken  as  a  personal  favor  to 
anybody,  although  it  would  give  me  great  pleasure  to  do  a  per- 
sonal favor  to  any  one  and  all  the  distinguished  gentlemen  who 
have  requested  it  in  this  case. 

The  vital  question  now  presented  appears  to  be  this :  On  the 
20th  of  August,  1867,  the  late  Maj.-Gen.  W.  S.  Hancock,  in  for- 
warding a  report,  made,  as  I  understand,  by  Captain  Armes  him- 
self, of  an  engagement  with  hostile  Indians  on  the  Saline  river 
August  2,  1867,  recommended  Captain  Armes  for  promotion  by 
brevet  for  distinguished  gallantry.  That  recommendation  appears 
to  have  been  approved  and  recommended  by  Lieutenant-General 
Sherman,  then  commanding  the  military  division  in  which  Gen- 
eral Hancock's  department  was  situated.  Those  recommenda- 
tions of  Major-General  Hancock  and  Lieutenant-General  Sher- 
man were  submitted  by  the  Adjutant-General  to  General  Grant, 
then  commanding  the  Army,  and  by  him  returned  to  the  Ad- 
jutant-General for  file.  This  action  of  General  Grant  is  under- 
stood to  have  had  the  force  of  a  disapproval  of  the  recommenda- 
tions of  his  subordinate  Generals.  Upon  this  state  of  the  facts 
the  question  arises  whether  the  present  Commanding  General  of 
the  Army,  so  many  years  after  the  event,  can,  under  the  more 
recent  law,  reopen,  reconsider  and  reverse  the  action  of  the  Com- 
manding General  at  the  time,  so  as  to  give  to  the  recommenda- 
tion of  the  Department  Commander  that  approval  or  concur- 
rence which  would  justify  the  President  of  the  United  States  in 
nominating  the  officer  for  the  commission  of  brevet.  It  does  not 
seem  to  me  that  the  present  Commanding  General  ought  to  as- 
sume such  authority  under  the  recent  law.  But  if  the  opposite 
view  be  taken  upon  this  point  there  then  arises  the  question, 
Upon  what  grounds  can  the  present  Commanding  General  of  the 
Army  give  his  concurrence  in  the  recommendation  of  the  De- 
partment Commander  made  so  many  years  ago. 

The  invariable  custom  has  been  of  late  years,  and  it  seems  to 
me  to  be  the  only  safe  one,  to  base  such  concurrence  upon  satis- 
factory official  evidence  of  the  fact  of  gallantry,  so  that  the  action 
of  the  Commanding  General  of  the  Army,  shall  not  be  a  mere  ap- 
proval of  a  recommendation  of  a  Department  Commander,  based 
upon  his  faith  in  the  good  judgment  of  that  officer,  but  an  inde- 
pendent official  act  upon  evidence  satisfactory  to  him  that  the 
officer  recommended  for  brevet  was  actually  entitled  to  it  by  his 
gallant  conduct  in  the  battle. 


66; 

Examining  the  records  in  this  light,  I  have  been  unable  to  find 
any  such  official  evidence  of  the  conduct  of  Captain  Armes  in  the 
engagement  referred  to  by  General  Hancock  as  would  justify  me 
in  advising  the  President  that  this  officer  is  entitled  to  a  brevet 
for  his  gallantry  in  battle  at  that  time. 

********** 

I  am  therefore  forced  to  the  conclusion  that  the  records  now 
within  my  reach  are  not  such  as  to  justify  my  favorable  action. 
Very  respectfully, 

J.  M.  SCHOFIELD, 

Lieutenant-General. 

Washington,  D.  C,  February  27,  1895. 
Lieut.-Gen.  John  M.  Schofield, 

Commanding  the  Army : 
(Through  the  Adjutant-General.) 

Sir — In  reply  to  the  report  dated  February  15,  1895,  to  the 
Honorable  Secretary  of  War  declining  to  approve  Generals  Han- 
cock's and  Sherman's  recommendations  for  Brevet  Lieutenant- 
Colonel  for  an  Indian  engagement  on  the  Saline  river,  Kansas,  in 
1867,  where  I  was  wounded,  I  have  the  honor  to  state  that  it  is 
well  known  by  a  few  officers  what  General  Grant's  personal  feel- 
ings towards  General  Hancock  were  at  the  time  my  papers  came 
before  him  for  action,  and  that  General  Hancock's  recommenda- 
tions were  pigeon-holed,  and  shortly  after  the  act  making  the 
brevets  was  repealed. 

Since  my  retirement  I  originated  and  got  the  bill  through  re- 
viving said  brevets,  with  a  clause  including  officers  on  the  retired 
list.  So  far  as  the  affidavit  signed  by  the  negro  soldier,  Johnson, 
is  concerned,  he  was  punished  by  me  on  several  occasions  and 
court-martialed  for  insubordination,  and  I  should  not  think  it 
would  have  any  weight  with  a  military  man  from  the  fact  that  he 
was  asked  to  make  that  affidavit  eight  years  after  the  fight  by  a 
number  of  subordinate  officers  trying  to  prevent  my  restoration 
to  the  regiment.  That  paper  at  the  time  was  fully  answered  to 
the  satisfaction  of  both  committees  of  Congress,  where  it  was 
used  to  try  to  influence  action  against  my  restoration. 

Col.  H.'C.  Corbin,  who  was  in  command  of  Fort  Hays  'at  the 
time  I  made  the  report,  is  now  on  duty  in  this  department,  and  I 
would  respectfully  request  that  he  be  called  upon  to  furnish  a 
statement  of  facts  in  relation  to  whether  my  report  was  questioned 
at  the  time  or  any  hints  made  as  to  its  being  colored  in  the  least. 
As  he  well  knows,  many  of  my  men  were  dying  with  cholera,  and 
my  command  was  composed  of  raw  recruits,  who  had  never  seen 
a  carbine  or  pistol,  much  less  fired  one.  Such  is  the  kind  of  men 
I  had  on  this  engagement  with  Indians,  and  if  it  had  not  been  for 


668 

the  expert  marksmen  of  the  scouts  of  Lieutenant  Bodamer  not 
one  of  my  command  would  have  returned. 

I  now  again  request  that  you  reconsider  your  action  in  this  case. 
There  is  no  legal  ground  or  good  reason  why  this  brevet  should 
not  be  made.  Bear  in  mind  that  I  do  not  ask  this  as  a  favor,  but 
only  ask  for  justice  to  which  I  am  legally  entitled. 

I  hope  you  will  remember  that  only  cowards  and  sneaks  have 
been  trying  to  use  you  to  break  me  down,  and  that  no  honorable 
man  can  say  one  word  that  will  reflect  upon  my  character  as  an 
officer  and  gentleman,  and  so  far  as  my  sanity  is  concerned,  it  is 
only  a  question  of  time  before  that  will  be  fully  investigated. 
Very  respectfully, 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Capt.  U.  S.  A.,  retired. 

From  The  Washington  Post. 
GETTYSBURG'S  HERO. 

General  Hancock's  Remains  May  Be  Removed  to  Arlington. 

The  veterans  af  the  Second  Army  Corps  held  their  last  meet- 
ing of  the  season  at  Willard's  Hotel  last  night,  and  over  a  hundred 
members  were  present  when  President  James  G.  Brady  called 
the  gathering  to  order.  Corp.  James  Tanner  was  elected  a  mem- 
ber, and  Col.  Moses  B.  C.  Wright  and  Mr.  Joseph  Brady  hon- 
orary members.  The  corps  decided  to  visit  the  studio  of  Sculp- 
tor Ellicott  in  a  body  tomorrow  night  and  view  the  completed 
equestrian  statue  of  General  Hancock  to  be  exhibited  there. 

A  committee  consisting  of  General  Bachelder,  General  Brady, 
Gen.  Joseph  S.  Smith  and  Maj.  George  A.  Armes  was  appointed 
to  take  charge  of  the  matter  of  having  the  remains  of  General 
Hancock  removed  from  their  present  resting-place  at  Norristown, 
Pa.,  to  Arlington  Cemetery.  Major  Armes  stated  that  this  would 
be  in  accordance  with  the  wishes  of  the  late  hero's  family.  The 
body  of  Mrs.  Hancock,  which  now  reposes  at  St.  Louis,  will  also 
be  reinterred  at  Arlington. 

After  the  business  of  the  meeting  was  concluded  social  features 
of  an  interesting  and  delightful  character  wer  enjoyed,  Civil  Ser- 
vice Commissioner  Lyman  telling  some  good  war  stories  and  Dr. 
Charles  Smart  reading  a  valuable  paper  on  "The  Surgeons  of  the 
Second  Corps."  Major  Armes  read  an  original  order  issued  dur- 
ing the  Revolution  by  General  Washington,  in  which  he  called 
attention  to  the  habit  of  the  officers  of  swearing,  and  strongly 
suggesting  a  cessation  of  the  reprehensible  practice.  He  also 
ordered  that  no  work  should  be  performed  on  the  Sabbath.  Gen. 
J.  S.  Smith  and  others  contributed  to  the  pleasure  of  the  assem- 
blage with  reminiscences,  and  the  meeting  adjourned  until  next 
October. 


669 

Washington,  D.  C.,  May  I,  1895. 
My  Dear  Major  Armes : 

You  are  without  doubt  aware  that  the  dedication  of  the  Han- 
cock statue  takes  place  the  I2th  inst.  As  a  member  of  the  old 
Second  Corps  (Hancock's)  staff  I  am  endeavoring  to  have  all  of 
those  now  living  join  us  in  the  procession  upon  that  occasion. 
You  must  come.  Black  silk  hats,  frock  coats  and  tan-color  kid 
gloves  will  be  worn ;  also  your  badges. 

Major-General  Miles,  U.  S.  A.,  will  "lead  off,"  followed  by  the 
"old  staff,"  and  then  the  battle-flags  of  our  corps,  together  with 
the  association. 

Sincerely,  your  old  comrade, 

(Signed)        JOSEPH  S.  SMITH, 

Late  Brevet  Brig.-Gen.  and  Chief  C.  S.,  Second  Corps. 
Washington,  D.  C.,  May  14,  1895. 
Hon.  Daniel  S.  Lamont, 

Secretary  of  War : 
(Through  the  Adjutant-General  of  the  Army.) 

Sir — I  feel  indebted  to  you  for  the  courtesy  extended  in  allow- 
ing me  to  see  the  false  and  malicious  misrepresentations  lately 
made  to  you  by  Gen.  John  M.  Schofield,  U.  S.  A.,  as  an  excuse 
for  not  recommending  my  name  to  the  Senate  for  Brevet  Lieu- 
tenant-Colonel, U.  S.  A.  Recommended  by  Generals  Hancock 
and  Sherman  in  1867,  I  feel  that  General  Schofield  has  taken  ad- 
vantage of  the  office  he  has  held  since  1889  to  rmn>  disgrace  and 
break  me  down  if  possible,  and  I  can  only  account  for  his  mali- 
cious acts  for  the  following  reasons : 

In  1869  I  found  it  to  be  my  duty  to  prefer  charges  against  sev- 
eral officers  of  my  command  for  stealing  Government  property, 
horses,  mules,  etc.  One  of  the  Majors  of  the  regiment  named 
Schofield,  said  to  be  a  brother  of  the  present  General  Schofield, 
who  was  looked  upon  as  a  weak-minded  man,  was  easily  taken 
possession  of  by  those  against  whom  I  had  preferred  charges, 
and  took  part  against  me  and  did  all  in  his  power  to  shield  the 
thieves,  and  in  fact  was  used  by  them  as  a  tool,  the  same  as  Gen- 
eral Schofield  has  been  used  by  the  same  class  of  cowardly  sneaks 
to  try  to  ruin  me.  I  was  court-martialed  by  a  court  of  drunken 
Army  loafers,  picked  out  by  General  Schofield  for  that  purpose. 
He  approved  and  sent  the  case  to  the  then  Secretary  of  War,  Hon. 
W.  W.  Belknap,  who  sustained  his  action,  and  out  I  went,  and  it 
was  several  years  of  hard  fighting  to  regain  the  position  I  had 
been  robbed  of,  but  not  until  Secretary  Belknap  and  several  others 
of  my  persecutors  had  been  sent  to  prison  or  punished.  Since 
my  restoration  a  certain  clique  seems  to  have  kept  up  a  fight 
against  me  to  this  date.  A  man  who  would  try  to  deceive  you  by 
submitting  such  papers  as  he  has  to  turn  you  against  me  and  stain 
his  important  position  would  be  guilty  of  almost  anything.  If 


6yo 

it  is  true  that  he  has  awarded  himself  a  medal  to  pose  as  a  hero 
when  the  records  will  bear  me  out  in  saying  he  is  a  humbug,  has 
always  been  one,  and  has  misrepresented  his  acts  and  deeds  to 
the  public  almost  all  his  life,  then  he  is  a  disgrace  to  the  American 
people.  If  you  will  authorize  the  Inspector-General  of  the  Army 
to  investigate  the  statements  I  make  I  am  confident  I  can  prove 
General  Schorl  eld  to  be  one  of  the  worst  humbugs  ever  foisted 
upon  the  American  people. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         G.  A.  ARMES. 

To  whom  it  may  concern : 

I,  Charles  Banzhof,  late  a  First  Lieutenant,  Tenth  Cavalry, 
joined  the  regiment  in  November,  1867,  at  Fort  Riley,  Kansas, 
and  was  assigned  to  Company  F,  of  which  George  A.  Armes  was 
Captain. 


I  take  pleasure  in  saying  that,  whatever  Captain  Armes'  faults 
may  have  been,  he  had  the  reputation  of  being  brave  and  coura- 
geous in  battle.  I  heard  that  one  William  Johnson,  late  private 
of  Company  F,  Tenth  United  States  Cavalry,  made  a  charge 
against  his  former  Captain,  said  George  A.  Armes.  I  would  state 
that  the  said  Johnson  had  been  at  one  time  a  sergeant  and  was 
reduced  to  the  ranks  for  insubordination. 

(Signed)         C.  BANZHOF. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  July  27,  1895. 

Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes,  Tenth  Cavalry,  transmits  charges  against 
Colonel  Nelson,  made  out  at  Camp  Supply,  I.  T. : 

Headquarters  Departmen  Missouri,  Judge-Advocate's 
Office, 
St.  Louis,  Mo.,  February  4,  1870. 

Respectfully  returned  to  the  assistant  Adjutant-General,  De- 
partment Missouri.  The  frivolous  character  of  the  specifications 
to  the  most  of  the  charges,  the  petty  malignity  of  Brevet  Major 
Armes  evinced  therein,  they  being  chiefly  a  recital  of  fancied  per- 
sonal grievance  against  Colonel  Nelson,  his  then  commanding 
officer,  the  fact  of  Major  Armes  being  now  on  trial  on  serious 
charges,  some  of  which  were  preferred  by  Colonel  Nelson,  the 
facts  known  at  these  headquarters  concerning  Colonel  Nelson's 
actions  in  regard  to  Major  Graham's  charges  being  at  variance 
with  Major  Armes'  statement  as  set  forth  in  the  specifications, 
Colonel  Nelson's  high  character  as  an  officer  and  a  gentleman 
and  Major  Armes'  worthlessness  and  general  bad  character, 
would  seem  to  forbid  any  attention  to  the  charges  and  specifica- 
tions accompanying  this  com irmni cation.  But  it  is  recommended 


67i 

that  they  be  referred  to  Colonel  Nelson  for  any  remarks  he  may 
have  to  make. 

(Signed)        WM.  M.  WHERRY, 

Brevet  Col.  A.  D.  C. 

Headquarters  Department  Missouri, 

St.  Louis,  Mo.,  February  5,  1870. 

Respectfully  referred  to  Lieut.-Col.  A.  D.  Nelson,  U.  S.  A., 
commanding  Camp  Supply,  I.  T.,  for  remarks.  Attention  in- 
vited to  endorsement  of  the  J.  A.  of  the  Department. 

By  command  of 

MAJOR-GENERAL  SHOFIELD. 

W.  G.  MITCHELL, 
Brevet  Col.  U.  S.  A.,  A.  A.  A.  Gen. 

State  of  Iowa,  Clinton  County : 

William  Richardson,  being  first  duly  sworn,  on  oath  deposes 
~and  says  that  he  is  late  first  sergeant  Company  L,  Tenth  United 
States  Cavalry;  that  he  has  known  Maj.  George  A.  Armes  for 
ever  twenty-seven  years;  that  he  served  as  a  private  and  non- 
commissioned officer  in  Company  F,  Tenth  Cavalry,  during  the 
summer  of  1867  and  for  several  years  thereafter  with  and  under 
Captain  Armes  while  he  commanded  the  said  company;  that  he 
was  engaged  in  several  fights  or  battles  against  the  Indians,  and 
marched  hundreds  of  miles  with  Captain  Armes  while  scouting 
after  Indians  in  Kansas,  Colorado,  Indian  Territory,  Mexico,  etc. ; 
that  he  remembers  the  particulars  of  a  fight  against  the  Indians  on 
the  Saline  river,  Kansas,  about  the  first  part  of  August,  1867, 
when  Sergeant  Christy  was  killed  and  several  men  and  horses 
wounded,  and  was  by  the  side  of  Captain  Armes  when  he  was 
shot  by  an  Indian  with  a  rifle  in  the  right  hip  while  he  was  giving 
orders  to  the  men,  who  were  entirely  surrounded  by  hundreds 
of  Indians ;  that  when  Captain  Armes  fell  a  good  many  men 
rushed  up  to  him,  when  he  ordered  them  back  to  their  posts  with 
the  instructions  to  be  careful  and  not  waste  their  ammunition  and 
only  fire  when  there  was  certainty  of  hitting  an  Indian.  I  helped 
the  Captain  on  his  horse,  when  he  was  shot  under  a  severe  fire 
of  bullets  and  arrows,  and  by  his  careful  management  saved  the 
command  from  massacre,  and  it  was  my  opinion,  as  well  as  that 
of  the  rest  of  the  men  that  if  he  had  not  dismounted  the  command 
when  the  Indians  charged  among  the  men  we  would  have  been 
cleared  out  in  a  few  minutes. 

It  was  the  general  talk  of  all  the  men  after  our -return  to  the 
post  that  they  did  not  believe  any  officer  except  Captain  Armes 
could  have  saved  the  command,  as  he  seemed  to  know  just  what 
to  do  under  the  circumstances.  One  very  important  feature  I 
shall  never  forget ;  that  is,  after  the  Indians  first  charged  and  were 


672 

repulsed  they  set  fire  to  the  prairie  grass  all  around  the  command 
to  try  to  burn  us  up,  when  Captain  Armes  at  once  ordered  the 
grass  set  afire  around  the  command  and  started  it  out  to  meet  the 
posse  of  Indians,  which  at  once  encouraged  the  men  to  believe 
he  knew  just  what  to  do.  I  remember  we  had  only  about  thirty 
or  forty  men  in  the  fight,  and  were  surrounded  by  several  hun- 
dred Indians  thoroughly  armed  with  rifles,  pistols,  bows,  quivers 
and  lances.  I  never  saw  an  officer  display  more  bravery  and  cool- 
ness under  fire  than  Major  Armes.  Even  when  he  was  shot  down 
he  was  as  cool  as  if  nothing  was  the  matter. 

The  Captain  was  a  very  strict  military  man,  but  all  the  good 
men  in  the  company  liked  him,  and  would  promptly  obey  him, 
and  a  few  weeks  after  this  first  fight  with  the  Indians  two  com- 
panies of  Kansas  volunteer  cavalry  were  ordered  after  Indians, 
where  we  had  another  big  fight  on  the  Republican  river,  Kansas, 
and  were  surrounded  several  days  and  nights,  and  the  Kansas 
men,  who  were  down  on  him  at  first  on  account  of  his  being  so 
strict,  obeyed  him  to  a  man,  and  after  the  fight  and  our  safe  re- 
turn to  Fort  Hays  they  praised  him  to  the  skies,  and  talked  of 
him  as  one  of  the  bravest  Indian  fighters  on  the  plains. 

(Signed)         WILLIAM  RICHARDSON. 

Subscribed  and  sworn  to  before  me  this  4th  day  of  September, 
A.  D.  1895. 

[SEAL.]  HENRY  HOWARD, 

Notary-Public. 

A  true  copy. 

EDMOND  L.  MCCLELLAND, 

Notary-Public,  D.  C. 

State  of  Virginia,  County  of  Elizabeth  City,  to  wit : 

Jacob  Thornton,  being  duly  sworn,  deposeth  and  saith  as  fol- 
lows :  That  during  the  month  of  March,  1896,  Lieutenant  Duvall 
of  the  artillery  at  Fortress  Monroe,  Va.,  came  after  me  and  took 
me  before  a  notary-public  by  the  name  of  Groom,  I  think,  and 
asked  me  to  sign  a  paper  which  had  been  fixed  up  by  someone, 
and  I  did  not  know  what  it  was  at  the  time ;  but  the  Lieutenant 
said  it  was  something  about  Captain,  meaning  Major,  Armes,  and 
I  signed  it,  for  I  thought  it  was  all  right  for  me  to  do  so,  but  if  it 
reflected  upon  him  in  the  least  I  did  not  intend  it  should,  for  I 
could  not  say  one  word  against  him,  for  he  was  a  good  officer  to 
me  and  all  the  men,  and  one  of  the  bravest  and  best  Indian 
fighters  on  the  plains. 

(Signed)         JACOB  THORNTON. 

Sworn  to  and  subscribed  before  me  this  loth  day  of  August. 
[SEAL]  (Signed)         T.  L.  SCLATER, 

Notary-Public. 


Schofield  preferred  charges  against  me,  making  the  following 
letter  the  base : 

"September  27,  1895. 
"Gen.  John  M.  Schofield,  U.  S.  A. : 

"Sir — Before  you  are  retired  from  active  duty  I  thought  I 
would  call  your  attention  to  the  injustice  and  persecutions  you 
have  inflicted  upon  me  during  the  years  1869-70  and  up  to  the 
present  time. 

"As,  to  my  knowledge,  I  have  given  you  no  cause,  I  would  like 
to  have  an  explanation  as  to  your  grounds  for  making  my  life  a 
hell  and  trying  to  ruin  me  in  the  way  you  have. 

"The  endorsement  upon  the  charges  I  preferred  against  Lieut.- 
Col.  A.  D.  Nelson  in  1870  denouncing  me  as  a  worthless  charac- 
ter, etc.,  etc.,  was  the  first  attack  upon  me.  In  addition  to  ignor- 
ing and  failing  to  investigate  the  serious  charges  which  I  then 
submitted  because  I  considered  it  my  duty  to.  do  so,  the  next 
wrong  was  to  select  a  few  characters  from  the  Army,  call  it  a 
court,  and  approve  of  their  sentence  of  dismissal,  you,  as  a  judge, 
having  selected  the  jury.  You  sustained  Colonel  Nelson  in  not 
bringing  Captain  Graham  to  trial,  and  after  I  was  dismissed  for 
bringing  these  charges  Colonel  Nelson  found  that  Graham  would 
have  to  be  tried  because  of  the  great  pressure  of  all  the  officers 
and  others  at  Camp  Supply,  I.  T.  Nelson,  to  save  himself,  recom- 
mended Graham's  trial  upon  the  charges  that  I  had  submitted 
long  before  I  was  so  unjustly  dismissed,  and  he  was  not  only 
cashiered,  but  sentenced  to  the  penitentiary  for  a  term  of  years. 
Since  my  retirement  you  caused  another  court  to  be  selected,  and 
tried  to  ruin  and  disgrace  me.  You  also  issued  an  order,  and  I 
was  published  as  a  person  whose  sanity  was  questioned,  but  after 
the  mischief  was  done  you  stopped  the  investigation  without  any 
request  upon  my  part  that  you  should  do  so.  Lately,  I  am  in- 
formed, you  have  secured  the  marks  to  affidavits  of  negroes  who 
cannot  read  and  write,  alleging  a  lot  of  falsehoods  and  stuff  that 
has  a  tendency  to  injure  me  with  those  who  would  be  influenced 
by  what  you  say  or  do  on  account  of  your  position. 

"  lam  a  gentleman,  and  have  always  conducted  myself  as  such. 
I  have  done  my  duty  as  a  soldier,  as  the  true  records  will  prove, 
and  any  charges  tha't  are  on  file  tending  to  reflect  discredit  upon 
me  are  instigated  by  personal  enmity  or  unfounded  malice,  and 
are  unworthy  of  belief.  Common  justice  on  the  part  of  a  superior 
officer,  the  manly  instincts  of  a  gentleman  when  shown  that  he 
is  mistaken,  should  cause  you  to  apologize  and  show  a  disposition 
to  amend  the  wrongs,  as  far  as  possible,  which  you  have  for  so 
many  years  heaped  upon  me. 

"Respectfully,  etc., 

"(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES." 

43 


674 

War  Department,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 

October  7,  1895. 
Capt.  George  A.  Armes, 

U.  S.  Army,  retired, 

1405  F  Street,  Washington,  D.  C. : 

Sir — Your  communication  of  this  date  to  the  Secretary  of  War 
requesting  that  he  grant  you  an  interview  at  such  time  and  place 
as  may  suit  his  convenience  during  this  day  has  beeen  duly  sub- 
mitted to  him,  and  he  instructs  me  to  say  that  until  the  courts  shall 
have  disposed  of  the  matters  before  it  affecting  you  all  communica- 
tion with  him  must  be  in  writing. 

Very  respectfully, 

(Signed)         GEO.  D.  RUGGLES, 

Adjutant-General. 

A  sample  of  the  letters  received  at  the  time  of  my  arrest : 

614  West  Street, 

Chicago,  111.,  September  28,  1895. 
My  Dear  Major: 

I  enclose  a  copy  of  the  Tribune  of  today,  which  gives  an  account 
of  what  appears  to  be  another  great  injustice  meted  out  to  you. 
While  I  am  not  familiar  enough  with  "Regular  Army"  regula- 
tions to  determine  whether  such  an  "appeal"  as  you  made  to  Gen- 
eral Schofield  was  undignified  enough  to  "hang  a  common  sol- 
dier," I  cannot  see  that  an  American  citizen's  rights  should  be 
so  imperiled  by  such  an  appeal  as  to  submit  him  to  the  indignity 
of  being  torn  from  the  bosom  of  his  family  and  cast  into  prison. 
You  have  my  deepest  sympathy. 

(Signed)         JOHN  N.  STEWART. 

Below  are  given  extracts  from  the  Washington  Times,  Chicago 
Times-Herald  and  Dcnison  (Texas)  Herald  on  the  decision  of  Judge 
Bradley  in  habeas  corpus  proceedings : 

JUDGE   BRADLEY    TS    RIGHT. 

The  decision  of  Judge  Bradley  in  the  Armes  case  will  commend 
itself  to  every  unprejudiced  person. 

In  Russia  and  Germany  the  arrest  and  imprisonment  of  a  re- 
tired officer  for  stating  his  grievance  in  a  personal  letter  to  a  su- 
perior officer  might  be  justified,  but  in  America,  where  official 
rank  does  not  license  tyranny,  such  arbitrary  methods  cannot  be 
tolerated.  Judge  Bradley  voiced  public  sentiment  when  he  said 
that  "in  whatever  capacity  General  Schofield  may  have  acted, 
either  as  Lieutenat-General  of  the  Army  or  as  Secretary  of  War, 
his  action  was  unwarranted,  illegal,  unjust  and  tyrannical,"  and 
although  such  an  opinion  from  so  eminent  and  capable  a  jurist  as 


675 

Judge  Bradley  may  not  be  pleasant  for  General  Schofield,  it  fits 
the  situation  to  a  nicety. 

It  was  currently  believed  that  Secretary  Lamont  would  order 
the  prosecution  of  Major  Armes  abandoned  when  he  learned  the 
particulars  of  the  arrest,  and  there  is  good  reason  for  the  impres- 
sion that  he  would  do  so  now  but  for  the  pressure  brought  to  bear 
in  Army  circles.  Since  the  contents  of  the  letter  have  been  made 
public  and  the  charge  that  General  Schofield  has  been  persecut- 
ing Major  Armes  is  so  clearly  substantiated  by  circumstantial  evi- 
dence, it  would  never  do  to  drop  the  case.  The  only  way  General 
Schofield  can  be  vindicated  is  by  dismissal  of  Major  Armes 
through  sentence  of  court-martial,  and  that  will  probably  be  the 
end  of  the  affair  as  far  as  Army  circles  are  concerned.  The  entire 
case  will  probably  be  reviewed  by  a  Congressional  investigation, 
and  it  is  to  be  hoped  that  the  truth  of  the  persecution,  if  any  there 
has  been,  will  be  made  public. 

Judge  Bradley  of  Washington  did  the  right  thing  in  ordering 
the  release  of  Captain  Armes  and  sharply  criticizing  General 
Schofield's  despotic  conduct.  This  country  is  not  yet  quite  ready 
for  military  dictators. 

We  are  to  have  a  court-martial,  an  august  military  tribunal,  sit- 
ting in  judgment  on  the  case  of  Major  Armes,  retired.  There  is 
a  good  deal  of  curiosity  concerning  the  sort  of  prosecution  the 
Judge-Advocate  will  attempt.  A  pretty  case  he  will  have  when  he 
gets  up  and  tells  the  court  Major  Armes  was  a  man  with  a  griev- 
ance, and  that  he  asked  redress  for  his  wrongs  by  means  of  a  let- 
ter couched  in  moderately  polite  phrases  and  fairly  good  English. 
Most  people  had  supposed  it  was  only  in  Cuba  or  China  that  a 
man  was  locked  up  for  respectfully  presenting  his  grievances  to 
his  superior  officer. 

Office  of  the  American  Cultivator, 

Boston,  Mass.,  October  n,  1895. 

Maj.  George  A.  Armes : 

Dear  Sir— I  wish  to  most  heartily  congratulate  you  on  your 
vindication  by  Judge  Bradley  in  the  right  which  you,  in  common 
with  all  citizens  hold.  Even  in  England  an  old  proverb  reads, 
"A  cat  may  look  at  a  king,"  and  an  acting  Secretary  of  War  ought 
not  to  be  too  sacred  a  character  to  refuse  a  protest  against  his 
assumptions. 

Before  I  saw  the  decision  of  Judge  Bradley  I  wrote  a  short  ar- 
ticle to  the  American  Cultivator,  a  copy  of  which  I  mail  you  and  a 
clipping-  from  which  is  herewith  enclosed. 

Yours  very  respectfully, 

(Signed)        WM.  J.  FOWLER. 


676 

[From  Journal,  Providence,  R.  I.] 

Major  Armes  comes  out  best,  after  all,  in  his  little  brush  with 
General  Schofield.  To  the  lay  mind  he  courted  arrest  by  his  ac- 
tions. But  the  court  decides  otherwise,  and  describes  General 
Schofi eld's  action  as  "unwarranted,  illegal,  unjust  and  tyran- 
nical." These  are  harsh  words,  but,  as  they  are  official,  they  must 
stand.  Since  General  Schofield  is  now  on  the  retired  list,  how- 
ever, perhaps  he  will  not  mind  them  so  very  much  after  all. 

[From  Journal,  Milwaukee,  Wis.] 

Captain  Armes  has  done  what  he  never  did  before,  lie  has 
knocked  out  the  entire  United  States  Army. 

Here  is  Schofield's  excuse  for  his  conduct : 

October  n,  1895. 

General  Schofield  writes  to  the  War  Department  that  the  real 
facts  that  caused  the  arrest  of  Armes  was  that  Armes  came  to  the 
War  Department  after  office  hours,  when  he  knew  the  person  he 
sought  was  there,  because  his  carriage  was  standing  at  the  door ; 
that  nearly  all  others  had  gone,  probably  leaving  the  person  he 
sought  alone.  He  came  to  deliver  in  person  an  insulting  message, 
and  brought  with  him  his  own  witness.  His  evident  purpose  was 
to  provoke  a  personal  encounter,  and  thus  enable  him  to  make  a 
personal  assault  and  do  bodily  harm  under  conditions  which 
would  save  him  from  punishment,  through  the  testimony  of  his 
own  witness,  whom  he  brought  there  for  that  purpose.  The 
police  captain  who  was  called  at  the  time  corroborated  the  belief 
that  Armes  was  a  dangerous  man,  influenced  by  some  form  of 
mania.  Under  these  circumstances  his  arrest  and  confinement 
was  imperative,  according  to  military  law  and  its  usage. 

Oneida,  N.  Y.,  October  15,  1895. 
My  Dear  Major : 

I  have  been  watching  your  trouble  with  Schofield.  What  a  lit- 
tle cuss  he  is!  All  there  is  to  him  is  his  great  big  military  title, 
and  now  he  has  shed  that.  I  predict  after  your  case  is  finally  set- 
tled we  shall  never  hear  of  him.  He  makes  the  worst  row  over  a 
few  peanuts  of  any  man  I  ever  saw,  and  I  feel  that  Judge  Bradley 
painted  his  picture  faithfully.  I  would  rather  be,  as  I  am,  obscure 
and  unknown  than  to  be  a  person  such  as  I  believe  Schofield  to  be. 
I  see  in  his  whole  action  that  unrelenting  antagonism  of  West 
Pointers  to  citizen  officers,  the  same  old  conspiracy  you  have  suf- 
fered from  ever  since  your  entrance  into  the  regular  Army.  I  see 
you  have  or  propose  to  sue  his  royal  highness  for  $50,000,  and  T 
hope  you  will  succeed  in  making  him  pay.  The  right  to  appeal 
is  a  matter  guaranteed  by  our  constitution,  and  it  should  not  be 
violated  by  men  even  of  the  avoirdupois  of  Schofield,  although  for 


677 


twenty-four  hours  he  might  be  watching  the  Secretary  of  War's 
office  while  that  officer  had  gone  a-fishing.  I  read  your  letter  as 
published  in  the  New  York  World,  and  for  the  life  of  me  I  could 
not  see  anything  more  or  less  than  a  private  dispute,  a  quarrel  be- 
tween two  men,  that  could  be  settled  quicker  and  better  by  the 
parties  interested  than  by  making  a  great  public  matter  of  it.  I 
could  not  see  where  the  "insult''  came  in.  You  believed  he  had 
wronged  you,  as  I  have  no  doubt  he  had.  You  gave  him  an  op- 
portunity to  make  things  right  before  his  retirement,  and  he, 
swelled  up  with  his  brief  and  fleeting  authority,  took  advantage  of 
it  to  hit  you  a  parting  clip  before  his  fangs  were  drawn.  Faugh! 
that  man  disgusts  me,  and  I  believe  that  in  Gen.  N.  A.  Miles  we 
have  a  better  soldier,  a  better  citizen  and  more  of  a  man  in  every 
respect. 

Respectfully,  your  comrade, 

(Signed)         W.  HECTOR  GALE. 

Office  of  Henry  Oliver, 

Norton,  Kan.,  October  15,  1895. 
Capt.  George  A.  Armes, 

Washington,  D.  C.  : 

Dear  Sir  —  I  have  just  read  in  one  of  our  daily  papers  the  de- 

cision of  Judge  Bradley  in  your 
case  with  General  Schofield. 
Please  accept  my  congratula- 
tions. I  do  not  suppose  you 
remember  me  personally.  I 
was  a  sergeant  in  your  com- 
pany, E,  Second  New  York 
Artillery.  The  last  time  I  saw 
you  was  at  Washington  the 
day  We  left  for  home.  You  re- 
member we  were  on  the  cars 
when  you  came.  I  met  you  on 
the  yard  and  shook  hands  with 
you.  I  also  distinctly  remem- 
ber you  at  Hatcher's  Run.  I 
read  in  the  Oneida  Press  some 
time  ago  that  Colonel  Hogg 
was  the  first  one  across  the 
run.  I  say  that  George  A. 
Armes  was  the  first  to  cross 
over,  and  I  think  I  was  the 
second  or  third.  I.  write  this 


HENRY  01  !VEK 


S° 


ENRY 

remember  me,  but  more  especially  to  congratulate  you. 

HENRY  OLIVER, 
Company  E,  Second  N  Y.  H.  A. 


CHAPTER  XXXIV. 


January  i,  1896. 

Assembled  at  the  War  Department  at  10  o'clock,  congratu- 
lating General  Miles,  who  marched  to  the  White  House  at  the 
head  of  the  column  of  officers.  There  was  a  very  full  turn  out — 
many  present  who  had  not  been  to  Washington  for  over  twenty 
years.  After  meeting  a  number  of  friends  in  the  East  Room  from 
every  section  of  the  country,  Judge  Zering  and  I  made  calls  on 
the  Cabinet,  members  of  Congress,  senators  and  residents  of  the 
city,  many  of  whom  I  had  not  met  for  several  years,  and  we  wound 
up  at  half-past  12  at  the  home  of  Mrs.  Senator  Davis. 


January  23,  1896. 

Took  Mr.  Ellicott,  Colonel  Pierce  and  his  wife  driving  to  Sol- 
diers' Home,  after  which  we  attended  the  President's  reception 
and  introduced  them  to  General  and  Mrs.  Miles.  I  escorted  Mrs. 
Weeks  of  San  Antonio,  Texas,  and  introduced  her,  also,  to  Gen- 
eral Miles,  who  soon  recognized  her  as  the  widow  of  Major 
Weeks,  who  had  so  grandly  entertained  him  at  the  Auditorium 
in  Chicago  some  time  ago. 

February  23,  1896. 

Attended  the  banquet  of  the  Sons  of  American  Revolution  last 
night.  Among  those  who  made  interesting  addresses  were  Gen- 
eral Miles,  Judge  John  Goode  and  General  Breckenridge.  I  in- 
vited the  Baroness  Branca  and  her  mother  and  Mrs.  Crosby. 


March  14,  1896. 

The  Second  Corps  Association  arranged  to  invite  the  Third 
Corps  to  attend  our  banquet  together,  and  we  met  in  the  parlors 
of  the  Shoreham.  At  9  o'clock,  with  Generals  Howard  and  Miles 
at  the  head,  we  marched  to  the  banquet  hall. 


679 


MAJ.  GKN.  NELSON  A.  MILES. 

March  27,  1896. 

While  visiting  Senator  Shoup  of  Idaho  last  evening  he  intro- 
duced me  to  Mr.  Dewey,  who  has  taken  an  interest  in  a  mine  in 
which  I  am  interested,  and  called  at  my  office  today,  where  I 
offered  it  to  him  for  $400,000. 

March  28,  1896. 

Colonel  Murray,  Mr.  Ames  and  I  met  Mr.  Dewey  at  the  Arling- 
ton Hotel  last  evening  and  closed  the  transaction  for  $400,000, 
on  conditiort  that  the  ore  shall  turn  out  as  represented. 


JOHN  CHAMBERLIN. 


April  I,  I 
Received  a  special  invita- 
tion from  John  F.  Chamber- 
lin  for  self  and  ladies  to  the 
grand  opening  of  his  hotel  at 
Hampton  Roads  April  4. 

Fortress  Monroe, 

April  5,  1896. 

Night  before  last  I  invited 
Lucy,  Ethel  and  Dorothy  to 
accompany  me  here  to  attend 
the  grand  opening  of  this 
hotel,  but  Lucy  declined  on 
the  ground  that  she  preferred 
to  have  the  girls  go,  as  they 
would  enjoy  the  dancing  and 
entertainments  there,  and 
sent  them  to  McKnews  to 
purchase  the  necessary  arti- 
cles for  the  occasion. 


681 

Washington,  May-  25,  1896. 

Just  as  I  was  leaving  the  house  this  morning  Lucy  handed  me 
a  list  of  things  she  wished  me  to  purchase  at  the  market,  with  the 
request  that  everything  be  sent  out  as  early  as  possible,  as  some 
friends  might  be  there  to  dine.  After  I  had  done  the  marketing 
mentioned  on  her  memorandum,  and  had  sent  them  back  to  the 
house,  I  was  suddenly  notified  to  appear  before  Judge  Hagner, 
where  I  soon  discovered  that  Faust  &  Tyler,  two  young  lawyers, 
who  were  apparently  out  of  a  job,  had  succeeded  in  inducing  my 
wife  and  two  or  three  of  the  children  to  sign  affidavits  and  perjure 
themselves  to  the  statement  they  had  prepared  for  them,  taking 
advantage  of  their  want  of  knowledge  as  to  what  they  were  really 
doing.  Not  having  talked  with  any  lawyer,  and  being  suddenly 
surprised  at  such  action,  I  was  unprepared  to  defend  myself.  Ac- 
cidentally meeting  Mr.  J.  H.  Ralston,  I  secured  his  aid,  and  he 
requested  Justice  Hagner  to  postpone  the  case  for  a  day  or  two, 
mentioning  the  circumstances  of  my  leaving  home,  and  showing 
the  memorandum  that  my  wife  had  written  and  given  me  before 
leaving.  The  judge  very  arbitrarily  declined  Mr.  Ralston's  re- 
quest, and  issued  an  order  forbidding  me  to  return  to  my  house, 
which  I  thought  a  most  brutal  act,  and  requiring  me  to  pay  coun- 
sel fees  of  $100  to  my  wife's  lawyers  and  $100  to  her  as  alimony, 
or  be  held  in  contempt  of  court. 

May  26,  1896. 

Being  arbitrarily  ordered  away  from  my  family  by  Justice  HagT 
ner  yesterday  afternoon,  I  managed  to  make  arrangements  with 
the  tenant  of  Fairfield  for  a  room  for  a  few  days.  I  was  greatly 
surprised  that  Ethel  would  sign  an  affidavit  after  the  grand  out- 
ing of  several  days  she  and  her  sister  had  just  had  at  Fortress 
Monroe  at  the  opening  of  the  Chamberlin  Hotel,  to  which  they 
were  invited,  with  myself,  by  the  Secretary  of  the  Navy,  Mr.  Her- 
bert, to  inspect  the  warships  that  assembled  there  for  a  grand  re- 
view. The  Marine  Band  had  entertained  the  Secretary's  guests, 
consisting  of  seventy-five  specially  invited.  An  interesting  event 
was  the  visit  made  by  Col.  Tom  Ochiltree,  Gen.  Joe  Blackburn 
and  Col.  Phil  Thompson,  who  came  with  Mr.  Herbert,  the  Sec- 
retary of  the  Navy,  all  of  them  ex-rebels,  where  they  were  re- 
ceived bv  Admiral  Bruce,  a  salute  being  fired  in  their  honor.  The 


682 

officers  appeared  in  full-dress  uniform,  and  refreshments  were 
served  on  all  the  warships.  We  had  also  sailed  to  Newport  News 
to  witness  the  building  of  the  new  warships  there,  which  was  a 
grand  sight. 

Richmond,  Va.,  June  30,   i8cj6. 

During  the  past  few  weeks  I  have  obtained  a  large  number  of 
affidavits  from  servants  and  neighbors  contradicting  the  affidavits 
procured  by  Tyler  and  Faust,  and  showing  that  they  were  false 
and  malicious.  I  left  Washington  at  6  o'clock  this  A.  M.  and 
stopped  over  in  Alexandria  until  2.35,  when  I  boarded  a  special 
train  loaded  with  Confederate  veterans,  and  reached  this  citv  at 
7  I*.  M.,  and  am  now  at  the  Jefferson  Hotel. 

July  2,  1896. 

After  dinner  last  evening  Dr.  A.  S.  Maddox  and  I  took  Mrs. 
Rudkin  and  Miss  Hunter  to  see  the  sponsors  and  hear  speeches 
and  singing.  Had  a  long  talk  with  Mrs.  General  Davis  and  Mrs. 
Hayes.  Mrs.  Jefferson  Davis  appreciated  my  effort  in  arrang- 
ing the  militia  in  the  parade  so  as  to  allow  her  carriage  to  pass 
on  to  the  platform,  where  I  had  adjoining  seats,  and  thus  had  an 
opportunity  to  converse  with  her  during  the  ceremonies. 

Washington,  July  4,    1896. 

Left  Richmond  last  evening  and  arrived  here  at  Fairfield  about 
ID  o'clock,  and  now  find  that  it  will  be  necessary  for  me  to  move 
some  of  my  property  from  the  District  to  keep  it  from  being  at- 
tached. Have  a  large  transaction  on  hand  with  Mr.  William  F. 
Schneider,  who  is  in  Rochester,  N.  Y. 

Rochester,  N.  Y.,  July  7,  1896. 

Left  Washington  on  the  10.40  train  last  night,  arriving  here  at 
4  P.  M.,  where  I  met  Mr.  Schneider,  who  invited  me  to  his  house 
as  his  guest,  where  I  was  entertained  today. 

July  9,  1896. 

At  12  o'clock  Mr.  Parker  took  us  to  the  beach  and  entertained 
us  with  a  fine  dinner.  We  then  took  the  steamer  and  went  around 
on  Lake  Ontario,  where  we  spent  the  rest  of  the  evening. 


683 

Tacoma  Park  Hotel,  Washington,  D.  C.,  July  16,  1896. 

Arrived  here  at  10  this  A.  M.  Called  at  Mr.  Charles  H.  Bur- 
gess' office  and  was  shown  the  morning  Post,  which  published  an 
order  of  Justice  Hagner  sending  me  to  jail  if  1  could  be  found. 
I  was  advised  to  get  out  of  the  jurisdiction  of  the  court  imme- 
diately, so  I  am  now  quartered  in  a  good  room  just  over  the  Dis- 
trict line,  and  where  I  can  use  a  telephone  to  transact  my  busi- 
ness in  the  city.  I  have  sent  for  a  pair  of  horses,  tea-cart,  buggy 
and  two  sets  of  harness.  Have  also  sent  my  four  cows  out  to 
pasture  at  Mr.  Page's. 

July  17,  1896. 

Mr.  Coryal,  proprietor  of  the  hotel,  is  a  special  friend  .of  mine, 
and  helping  me  by  keeping  me  posted  as  to  what  is  going  on. 
There  having  been  a  demand  of  six  or  eight  hundred  dollars  for 
alleged  counsel  fees,  alimony,  etc.,  I  have  made  up  my  mind  that 
1  will  not  pay  it  and  will  test  the  matter  in  court. 

July  18,  1896. 

I  telephoned  F.  G.  Newlands  today  in  relation  to  his  assisting 
Claude  in  breaking  up  fny  family,  and  told  him  it  was  in  his  power 
to  stop  the  whole  trouble  if  he  would,  but  he  telephoned  back 
that  he  would  not  interfere.  I  hold  him  responsible  to  a  certain 
extent. 

Chevy  Chase  Inn,  Md.,  August  3,  1896. 

As  the  deputy  marshals,  police,  scouts,  lawyers  and  others  are 
making  a  desperate  effort  to  catch  me,  I  decided  I  would  vacate 
my  quarters  and  spend  a  short  time  in  Virginia.  I  left  the  hotel 
at  3.20  P.  M.  and  drove  by  Mr.  Page's,  and  am  now  dining  at  this 
hotel  with  Justice  Cole  at  the  next  table. 

Langley,  Fairfax  County,  Va.,  August  4,  1896. 
I  was  placed  in  rather  a  peculiar  position  yesterday  evening, 
and  in  order  to  avoid  the  court  found  myself  right  in  it.  Judge 
Cole  registered  right  next  to  my  name.  Under  the  circum- 
stances I  hardly  thought  it  would  be  healthy  to  remain  in  the 
same  hotel  with  him  much  longer,  and  left  last  evening,  and  am 
now  being  entertained  by  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Mackall. 

Vienna,  Fairfax  County,  Va.,  August  5,  1896. 
Arrived  here  this  afternoon,  telephoning  to  Washington  giving 
my  lawyers  my  address,  and  am  now  arranging  to  occupy  one 
of  my  vacant  houses  in  this  village. 


684 

-August  7,  1896. 

As  my  driver,  John,  is  a  first-class  cook,  he  got  me  up  a  nice 
dinner  today,  after  which  I  rode  horseback  to  Falls  Church.  Met 
ciuite  a  number  of  my  friends  and  telephoned  Ralston  and  Sid- 
dons,  who  have  kept  me  posted  as  to  the  court  movements. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  August  12,  1896. 

Have  run  a  great  risk  by  coming  here,  but  have  registered  at 
the  hotel,  called  at  my  office  and  met  quite  a  number  of  friends. 
Visited  the  office  of  my  lawyers,  Ralston  &  Siddons,  this  after- 
noon,  in  spite  of  marshals  and  police,  who  are  on  the  lookout 
with  orders  to  arrest  me. 

Vienna,  Va.,  August  13,  1896. 

After  transacting  my  business  in  the  city  last  evening,  I  re- 
turned here  this  afternoon  on  the  4.30  train. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  August  15,  1896. 

I  left  Vienna  at  4  P.  M.,  driving  here.  Called  at  my  office  and 
at  that  of  my  lawyers,  and  visited  several  of  my  houses  on  Albe- 
marle  street  and  Fairfielcl. 

Vienna,  Va.,  August  17,  1896. 

Managed  to  drive  through  Washington  city,  and,  after  staying 
all  night,  returned  here  all  right  in  spite  of  detectives,  marshals, 
etc. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  August  18,  1896. 

My  lawyers  requested  me  to  meet  them  here  at  their  office 
this  afternoon  to  transact  some  business  in  relation  to  making  a 
loan  on  property.  I  felt  as  if  some  trick  was  being  planned  by 
the  lawyers  my  wife  had  in  her  employ,  when  Mr.  Ralston  re- 
minded me  that  it  was  unprofessional  for  one  of  their  body  to  do 
any  underhanded  act.  As  we  had  about  finished  our  business 
two  deputy  marshals  walked  into  Ralston's  office  and  arrested 
me.  They  accompanied  me  to  the  city  hall,  where  I  was  re- 
quested to  pay  over  two  hundred  dollars  in  cash  immediately  or 
go  to  jail.  Ralston  communicated  with  Justice  C.  C.  Cole,  who 
had  very  conveniently  left  the  court  and  gone  to  the  Chevy 
Chase  Inn.  As  Ralston  advanced  the  money,  I  was  released 
and  advised  not  to  appear  again  in  the  city  until  further  orders. 
The  confidence  of  Ralston  &  Siddons  in  my  wife's  attorneys  had 
been  misplaced,  and  T  could  not  be  blamed  for  indiscretion. 


685 

Vienna,  August  28,  1896. 

Since  my  return  here  I  have  been  busily  engaged  in  fixing  up 
my  property  and  corresponding  with  Pitney  &  Bradford  in  re- 
lation to  a  $12,000  loan  on  Tenth  street  houses. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  September  5,  1896. 

Drove  here  today,  and  while  in  the  office  a  deputy  marshal  got 
in  the  buggy,  feeling  certain  that  he  had  me,  when  I  sent  a  mes- 
senger to  him  to  ask  if  he  wanted  Major  Armes,  and  if  so,  to  slip 
up  to  the  Arlington  Hotel,  when  he  immediately  sprang  out  of 
the  buggy,  starting  for  that  hotel.  After  hurrying  up  my  busi- 
ness affairs  in  the  office,  I  drove  out  of  the  city  without  being 
captured,  and  have  saved  myself  the  payment  of  eight  hundred 
or  a  thousand  dollars,  in  default  of  which  I  would  have  gone  to 

jail- 
Washington,  D.  C.,  September  12,  1896. 

Ran  the  risk  of  coming  here  again  today  to  consult  my  attor- 
neys, being  impatient  over  the  delay  in  fixing  up  the  separation 
matter.  I  shall  attend  the  reunion  of  the  Association  of  the  Army 
of  the  Potomac  at  Burlington,  Vt. 

Astor  House,  New  York,  September  13,  1896. 

Before  leaving  Washington  I  had  some  business  with  Pitney 
&  Bradford,  who  expect  to  secure  a  loan  of  $12,000  on  Tenth 
street  property.  Had  a  very  pleasant  interview  with  Col.  Beriah 
Wilkins  on  the  ferry-boat  coming  over  to  the  city  with  Mr.  Keith, 
proprietor  of  the  Astor  House,  in  relation  to  a  hotel  in  Wash- 
ington. 

Burlington,  Vt.,  September  15,   1896. 

Arriving  here  at  8  this  A.M., I  met  Governor  Woodbury,whom 
I  was  glad  to  see.  Dr.  Scott  and  Colonel  Corliss  wanted  me  to 
help  General  Henry  to  get  the  presidency  of  the  Army  of  the 
Potomac  Association. 

September  16,  1896. 

At  our  meeting  this  morning  General  Brooke  of  the  United 
States  Army  and  myself  were  made  members  of  a  committee  to 
nominate  officers  for  our  association.  He  agreed  to  assist  me  in 
my  selection  if  I  would  agree  with  him  in  the  selection  of  ex- 
Governor  Beaver  as  vice-president,  so  I  named  General  Henry 
as  president  and  he  James  A.  Beaver  as  vice-president,  and  upon 
our  reporting  to  the  association  they  were  unanimously  elected. 
Had  quite  an  exciting  time  in  the  meeting  this  evening,  as  I  had 
named  Dr.  Scott  in  the  place  of  General  Sharp,  and  in  spite  of 
General  Ruggles  making  a  speech  and  opposing  me,  my  man, 
Scott,  was  elected. 


686 


JOHN    T.    DCVINC. 


MA 


7. 

"M.    /Sty&      ^VC-cX_     it*-r-x-L*A     /M.     h-Osi    t^(     ^^T^_^^ 
^J/</^^^9        ^     ^^-^    g«^<&*^ 

O-2<2^ 


(^ 

t/^H^t 


^/^c^cc/     /-7^/ct  J  ^i^rL^L- 

'•?  z&r-<Q*<^t 


September  17,    1896. 

Capt.  Jack  Crawford  delivered  a  fine  address  in  the  opera- 
house.  Generals  Smith,  Webb  and  Howard  made  very  inter- 
esting1 speeches  also.  This  afternoon  we  were  entertained  and 
dined  and  wined  aboard  the  steamboats  and  had  a  long  trip  on 
Lake  Champlain. 

September  18,   1896. 

After  our  return  from  the  boat  ride  last  evening  we  attended 
one  of  the  grandest  banquets  at  the  Van  Ness  Hotel  that  I  ever 


68y 

witnessed.  Generals  Howard,  Butterfield,  Jack  Crawford,  Gov- 
ernor Woodbury,  General  Ruggles  and  several  others  delivered 
speeches.  This  afternoon  Governor  Woodbury  invited  me  to 
dine  with  his  family,  where  I  met  Mrs.  M.  M.  Parker  and  daugh- 
ter of  Washington. 

Utica,  N.  Y.,  September  19,  1896. 

Left  Burlington  this  A.  M.  Reached  Troy  at  4.35,  and  ar- 
rived here  at  7.30.  At  n  o'clock  met  General  Butterfield  at 
Raggs'  Hotel  and  took  a  drive  around  the  city  and  looked  at 
several  pieces  of  real  estate  which  he  has  offered  for  the  Schneider 
house  in  Washington. 

Home,  September  23,  1896. 

Stopped  over  in  New  York  a  day  or  two  to  attend  to  some  im- 
portant real-estate  matters,  in  addition  to  attending  the  Demo- 
cratic meeting  at  Madison  Square  garden  last  evening,  where  I 
was  specially  invited  to  a  seat  on  the  platform.  Also  attended 
the  banquet.  After  hearing  General  Palmer,  Buckner,  Governor 
Flower  and  Mr.  Bryan,  I  returned  to  the  Fifth  Avenue  Hotel, 
where  I  met  Mr.  William  Schneider,  who  dined  and  remained 
with  me  over  night.  Before  leaving  for  home  I  .called  on  his 
family  in  Brooklyn. 

September  29,  1896. 

I  ran  a  great  risk  by  remaining  in  the  city  to  meet  General 
Butterfield  of  New  York,  who  came  over  to  look  at  the  Morton 
house  and  several  other  pieces  of  property  offered  for  exchange. 

September  30,  1896. 

One  of  the  most  terrible  storms  ever  known  here  came  up  at 
u  o'clock  last  night.  This  morning  the  roofs  of  hundreds  of 
houses  were  blown  off,  many  trees  blown  down,  and  quite  a  num- 
ber of  people  killed.  Mr.  G.  Warfield  came  in  to  let  me  know  that 
the  windmill  at  Fairfield  had  blown  down  and  my  large  cherry 
tree,  besides  considerable  other  damage. 

October  8,  1896. 

Having  spent  a  large  sum  in  connection  with  the  separation 
matter,  in  which  the  lawyers  on  both  sides  appeared  to  be  the 
only  ones  benefited,  I  made  up  my  mind  I  would  direct  and  set- 
tle the  case  myself.  This  evening  about  10  o'clock  I  walked  into 
the  house,  where  my  wife  was  amusing  two  or  three  of  the  chil- 
dren. She  seemed  thoroughly  surprised  at  my  appearance  at 


688 

that  hour,  and  asked  me  if  I  was  not  afraid  of  being  arrested  by 
not  keeping  hid,  and  that  the  marshals,  detectives,  etc.,  were 
looking  for  me.  I  told  her  I  had  come  to  attend  to  a  very  im- 
portant matter,  and  reminded  her  that  unless  we  settled  our  dif- 
ficulties soon  the  children  and  herself  would  have  no  roof  to  sleep 
under.  I  told  her  that  the  lawyers  and  the  outside  mischief- 
makers  were  the  only  ones  benefited  by  this  litigation,  and  that 
if  she  preferred  to  abide  by  the  advice  of  others  and  desired  to 
have  the  bringing  up  and  control  of  the  children  she  could  do  so 
and  have  the  matter  settled  within  a  few  days  provided  she  would 
withdraw  her  application  for  a  separation  and  discharge  her  law- 
yers, turn  them  over  to  mine,  Ralston  &  Siddons,  for  investiga- 
tion and  make  them  account  for  the  hundreds  of  dollars  they  had 
collected  from  rents,  etc.,  failed  to  account  for,  and  still  remains 
so.  They  soon  became  professionally  unknown.  She  imme- 
diately consented,  requesting  me  to  write  the  papers  for  her  to 
sign,  which  T  did,  discharging  Tyler  &  Faust,  and  requesting  the 
case  withdrawn.  Tn  the  meantime  Judge  Hagner  had  ordered 
sold  $3200  worth  of  vehicles,  and  but  $18  of  this  was  ever  ac- 
counted for. 

October  9,  1896. 

This  morning  I  went  to  the  city  hall.  Just  as  the  clerk,  Meigs, 
had  recorded  the  withdrawal  of  the  separation  case  a  couple  of 
deputy  marshals  in  the  meantime,  hearing  that  I  was  in  the  court- 
house, rushed  in  to  arrest  me,  when  Clerk  Meigs  informed  them 
they  were  too  late,  that  the  case  had  been  dismissed  and  was  so 
recorded.  I  then  notified  my  lawyers,  Ralston  &  Siddons,  who 
congratulated  me  on  settling  the  affair  so  nicely. 

W.  C.  Prentiss,  a  lawyer  of  high  standing  and  character, 
was  directed  by  my  wife  to  make  an  application  for  an 
absolute  divorce.  It  was  made  and  placed  before  the  court. 
Upon  receiving  a  notice  to  appear,  I  declined,  and  the  case  went 
by  default,  and  an  absolute  divorce  was  granted,  giving  my  wife 
the  custody  of  the  children  and  alimony  to  be  paid  by  me 
monthly,  but  no  property.  After  the  case  was  fully  settled  I  called 
on  Lucy  and  gave  her  some  furniture  to  put  in  the  house  she  had 
rented.  She  has  moved,  and  is  now  installed  there  with  the  chil- 
dren, while  T  moved  back  into  my  own  house,  where  I  keep 
bachelor's  hall. 


689 

I  feel  much  better  now  that  this  litigation  is  at  an  end.  It  has 
cost  me  a  very  large  amount  of  money,  besides  worry  and  an- 
noyance, and  the  interference  with  many  of  my  business  transac- 
tions. 

November  12,  1896. 

Attended  a  meeting  of  the  Second  Army  Corps  last  evening  at 
the  Ebbitt.  General  Miles  presided,  and  Colonel  Kirk  read  a 
paper  on  the  Battle  of  the  Wilderness. 


GOVERNOR  W.  P.  KELLOGG. 

44 


690 

November  15,  1896. 

Spent  last  evening  with  Gov.  W.  P.  Kellogg  and  several  of 
his  friends  at  the  Shoreham,  and  after  dinner  today  drove  Col- 
onel Smithmyer,  out  to  the  American  University  in  my  tea-cart, 
stopping  at  Chamberlin's  upon  our  return,  meeting  Mr.  H.  Kil- 
bourn,  one  of  my  best  friends  and  a  leading  real-estate  man. 

November  17,   1896. 

Judge  Yeoman  of  the  Interstate  Commerce  Commission,  Mr. 
Campbell,  Mr.  Day  and  myself  went  over  to  Virginia  to  look  at 
the  i5oo-acrc  farm  near  Falls  Church,  which  Mr.  Campbell  is 
very  anxious  to  sell.  His  wife  treated  us  to  an  elegant  dinner, 
which  we  all  enjoyed. 

November  26,  1896. 

After  dinner  last  evening  T  called  at  the  Ebbitt  to  bid 
my  old  friend,  John  E.  Coad  of  Omaha,  good-bye.  We  took  a 
drive  around  the  city.  It  has  been  some  twenty-eight  years  since 
we  met  in  the  West,  he  being  the  owner  of  the  stock  that  I  had 
recaptured  from  Lawrence  canyon,  where  so  many  of  riy  men 
were  frozen  in  the  winter  of  1867. 

December  10,   1896. 

Saw  Gen.  S.  S.  Burdettc  and  Mr.  Sam  Bryan  today  in  relation 
to  their  interests  in  the  Appomattox  battlefields,  but  could  not 
get  them  together  in  regard  to  the  deal. 

December  16,  1896. 

T  brought  General  Burdette  to  Mr.  Bryan's  office  this  after- 
noon, and  after  one  or  two  hours'  conversation  and  argument  he 
has  agreed  to  exchange  his  interest  in  the  Appomattox  property 
for  the  I  street  house. 

December  17,  1896. 

I  spent  a  portion  of  last  evening  with  ex-Senator  Sawyer  of  Wis- 
consin in  relation  to  his  mines  and  some  property  he  has  in  the 
city,  which  he  gave  to  me  to  sell. 

December  31,   1896. 

Have  finally  arranged  to  make  a  deal  with  all  those  interested 
for  the  Appomattox  property,  placing  my  I  street  house  in  part 
exchange.  Meeting  Mr.  Harry  Davis  today,  he  agreed  to  sell 
out  his  interest.  Have  worked  on  papers  and  accounts  most  of 
the  day,  settling  up  my  affairs  for  the  past  year. 

A  few  letters,  newspaper  extracts  and  other  documents  follow 
and  further  elucidate  the  experiences  of  myself  and  family  during 
the  year  1896: 


691 

Washington,  D.  C.,  December  28,  1896. 
To  the  Honorable  Secretary  of  War, 

(Through  the  Adjutant-General), 

Washington,  D.  C.: 

Sir — I  respectfully  call  your  attention  to  a  recommendation  on 
file  in  your  office  in  relation  to  a  brevet  commission  as  Lieutenant- 
Colonel,  and  ask  that  the  papers  in  the  case  be  referred  to  the 
proper  parties  to  be  investigated,  and  that  I  be  allowed  to  appear 
in  person,  with  papers,  and  evidence,  I  believe,  will  warrant  my 
nomination  being  made,  if  there  is  any  question  raised  as  to  my 
being-  entitled  to  it. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         G.  A.  ARMES, 

Capt.  U.  S.  A.,  retired. 


MKS.  GEO.  A.  AKMES. 


GKOVER  CLEVELAND  ARMES. 


CHAPTER  XXXV. 

January  .1,   1897. 

Saw  the  old  year  out  and  the  new  one  in.  The  whistles  were 
in  full  blast,  the  hells  were  ringing  and  the  cannon  roared  for 
several  minutes  after  12  o'clock,  and  the  whole  seemed  to  he  a 
pandemonium.  I  reached  the  \Yar  Department  in  time  to  go 
with  the  Army  officers,  General  Miles  in  the  lead,  to  the  Presi- 
dent's house.  I  then  made  my  usual  calls. 

January  2,    1897. 

Among  those  whom  I  called  upon  last  evening  was  Hon.  J.  W. 
Thompson,  whose  lovely  bride  entertained  gracefully  as  a  queen. 
Mrs.  Cushman  K.  Davis  also  entertained  us  with  a  bevy  of  beau- 
tiful young  ladies,  and  made  our  stay  very  pleasant,  a  fac'  ':y  Mrs. 
Davis  has  established  at  her  receptions. 

January  5,   1897. 

After  dinner  last  evening  we  called  on  Bishop  Hurst  to  in- 
terest him  in  the  treatment  of  wood  by  Mr.  Bidwell's  process, 
in  which  wood,  curtains,  or  in  fact  any  substance,  cannot  be 
burned.  The  process  has  been  adopted  by  the  Xavy  Depart- 
ment. Called  on  Gen.  S.  S.  Burdette,  who  signed  the  deed  in  re- 
lation to  his  interest  in  the  Appomattox  property. 

January  9,   1897. 

Called  on  Senator  J.  W.  Daniel  last  evening,  and  he  recom- 
mended Mr.  Randolph  Harrison  of  Lynchburg  as  my  attorney  in 
fixing  up  the  Appomattox  property  title.  Had  all  the  deeds  prop- 
erly acknowledged,  and  have  deeded  my  I  street  house  in  part 
payment  for  it. 

January   n,   1897. 

Met  Judge  Peck  at  the  Shoreham  last  evening.  Shook  hands 
with  Gen.  Horace  Porter  and  Colonel  Corbin,  old  friends  of  mine, 
whom  I  met  at  the  Arlington  the  latter  part  of  the  evening.  Also 
had  quite  a  talk  with  General  Alger,  who  hopes  to  be  made  Sec- 
retary of  War,  and  is  doing  everything  he  can  to  bring  it  about. 


693 

January  14,  1897. 

Senator  Daniel  sent  me  a  pass  to  Lynchburg  for  Mr.  Settle  and 
myself.  Attended  the  meeting  of  the  Second  Army  Corps  Asso- 
ciation last  evening.  Called  on  Senator  Gibson  this  afternoon, 
who  is  still  anxious  to  help  me  with  my  brevet  matter. 

West  Appomattox  Court  House,  Va.,  January  15,  1897. 
I  met  Mr.  Settle  at  the  depot  at  8  o'clock  this  A.  M.,  and  we 
reached  Lynchburg  at  2. 20,  where  we  were  met  by  Randolph  Har- 
rison, with  whom  we  were  engaged  an  hour  or  two  at  his  office 
in  relation  to  the  titles  of  Appomattox.  He  then  boarded  the 
train  with  us,  and  we  reached  this  place  at  3.45,  where  we  met 
Mr.  Piers,  clerk  of  the  court,  a  most  intelligent  and  reliable  gen- 
tleman, and  one  of  the  landmarks,  who  invited  us  to  his  office 
and  tendered  us  every  courtesy  possible  in  helping  to  establish 
the  title  to  all  the  tracts  of  land  connected  with  the  Appomattox 
battlefields.  Colonel  Poor,  who  is  the  agent  for  the  property, 
had  just  left,  and  we  were  unable  to  see  him. 

Lynchburg,  Va.,  January  16,  1897. 

Mr.  Piers  entertained  us  last  evening  with  quite  a  number  of 
photographs  of  the  old  buildings  scattered  around  on  the  battle- 
fields, and  it  was  2  o'clock  this  A.  M.  before  I  retired.  I  was  up 
before  8,  and  after  breakfast  Mr.  Smith,  the  collector,  invited  Mr. 
Settle  and  myself  to  drive  over  the  lands  I  have  just  purchased, 
introducing  me  to  the  tenants.  Mr.  Harrison  remained  at  the 
clerk's  office  looking  over  the  titles,  while  I  examined  the  prop- 
erty, which  took  several  hours  to  go  over. 

January  22,  1897. 

Called  on  Mr.  Bryan  at  his  office  today,  when  he  acknowledged 
the  deeds  and  forwarded  them  to  Governor  Campbell  in  Ohio 
for  his  signature. 

January  27,  1897. 

Invited  Mr.  Heleluhe,  the  secretary  of  Queen  Liliuokalani,  to 
make  some  calls  with  me- yesterday  afternoon,  and  upon  being 
introduced  to  the  Vice-President  his  daughters  and  sons  recog- 
nized him  at  once  as  having  entertained  them  at  the  Hawaian 
Islands. 


6Q4 

January  28,  1897. 

I  saw  Mr.  Bryan  again  this  afternoon,  and  he  showed  me  a  tel- 
egram from  Governor  Campbell  stating  that  the  deed  was  signed 
and  on  its  way  back.  Called  on  the  Queen,  introducing  General 
Maxwell,  Fourth  Assistant  Postmaster-General.  Telephoned 
Judge  Thtirbcr  in  relation  to  the  Queen  attending  the  reception 
this  evening,  when  he  telephoned  back  that  the  President  had  ar- 
ranged for  the  Queen  to  be  there.  Attended  Mrs.  Senator  Faulk- 
ner's reception  at  the  Shoreham  this  afternoon,  who  entertained 
beautifully. 

February  10,  1897. 

Attended  the  Board  of  Trade  meeting  last  evening,  after  which 
1  met  several  friends  at  Chamberlin's.  Among  them  was  Nat 
Goodwin,  who  kept  us  up  until  after  4  o'clock  this  A.  M.  with 
his  interesting  stories  and  anecdotes. 

February  21,  1897. 

Attended  the  Foundry  Church  meeting  last  evening,  where 
Surgeon-General  Sternberi?;,  Mr.  John  Joy  Edison  and  several 
others  delivered  addresses,  and  at  10.30  met  Gen.  Daniel  Sickles 
at  the  Arlington,  with  Mr.  C.  S.  Cramp  of  Philadelphia  and 
J.  I).  Crimmons  of  New  York.  The  latter  invited  us  to  a  table, 
where  we  spent  the  rest  of  the  evening  until  after  i  this  A.  M.  in 
a  social  manner,  John  Russell  Young  of  Philadelphia  being  one 
of  the  party. 

February  23,  1897. 

Attended  the  banquet  of  the  Sons  of  the  American  Revolution 
last  evening  at  Rauscher's.  General  Breckinridge  was  toast- 
master,  and  Mr.  William  McAdoo,  representing  the  Navy,  Harry 
Davis  the  District,  and  Rev.  Dr.  Radcliffe  the  clergy,  advocated 
the  union  of  both  societies. 

March  2,  1897. 

Last  evening  met  Major  OTJriscoll,  Captain  Seville,  Maj. 
Charles  Lyman  and  several  others  of  the  Second  Corps  Asso- 
ciation and  partly  decided  on  the  speakers  for  the  banquet  to  be 
held  on  the  i6th  at  the  Shoreham.  Saw  Gen.  C.  H.  Grosvenor 
this  A.  M.,  who  accepted  an  invitation  to  reply  to  a  toast.  Gen- 
eral Alger  agreed  to  be  present,  but  said  he  would  be  unable  to 
make  a  speech. 


695 

March  5,  1897. 

Attended  the  inaugural  ball  last  evening  with  some  friends, 
among  whom  were  Colonel  and  Mrs.  Horn  of  New  York,  and 
tli rough  the  kindness  of  Colonel  Brackett  we  were  passed  by  the 
guards  into  Mr.  and  Mrs.  McKinley's  room,  where  I  met  General 
Alger,  who  introduced  me  to  his  wife  and  several  ladies  present. 
Mr.  Charles  E.  Bell,  who  seemed  to  be  in  charge  of  the  cere- 
monies, appeared  very  much  provoked  at  my  being  passed  by  the 
guards  at  the  instance  of  Colonel  Brackett. 

March  8,   1897. 

Colonel  Megrew  of  Ohio  met  me  at  the  Ebbitt  last  evening, 
introducing  me  to  Senator  Fairbanks,  who  made  an  appoint- 
ment to  go  with  his  wife  today  to  look  at  a  house  he  desires  to 
rent.  They  were  very  much  pleased  at  the  Van  Wyck  house,  and 
authorized  me  to  make  an  offer  for  it. 

March  9,   1897. 

My  residence  Fairfield,  containing  only  twenty-five  rooms,  and 
I  being  alone  since  the  divorce  was  granted,  is  considered  too 
small  to  rent  for  a  summer  hotel.  I  decided  to  make  an  addition 
of  twenty-five  rooms,  as  a  party  offered  to  take  it  for  the  summer 
provided  this  addition  was  made  within  the  next  thirty  days.  I 
applied  to  several  architects  and  contractors,  who  stated  it  would 
be  impossible  to  complete  such  an  addition  in  less  than  sixty  or 
ninety  days,  and  have  been  unable  to  find  anyone  to  take  the  re- 
sponsibility of  completing  it  within  that  time.  I  therefore  en- 
gaged twenty  men  to  start  in  tomorrow,  and  propose  to  give  my 
personal  attention  to  building  it  by  day  labor  instead  of  by  con- 
tractor. 

Hanover  Junction,  Va.,  March  10,  1807. 

Met  Congressman  White,  his  wife  and  daughter,  Miss  Pearl,  at 
the  Shoreham  early  this  morning  according  to  appointment,  and 
left  Washington  on  10.55  train  for  Mr.R.W.  Doswell's  horse  farm. 
We  were  met  at  the  depot  by  a  carriage,  and  after  riding  over 
and  viewing  the  racetrack,  we  returned  and  indulged  in  a  splendid 
dinner  prepared  by  the  Misses  Doswell.  They  showed  us  quite  a 
number  of  elegant  oil  paintings,  several  of  which  had  been  bay- 
oneted through  by  the  soldiers  who  encamped  on  the  place  dur- 
ing the  war.  Mr.  White  was  very  much  pleased  with  the  land, 
but  found  the  river  was  not  large  enough  for  navigation,  and  de- 
clined to  make  an  offer,  as  he  desires  a  country  place  where  he 
can  bring  up  his  large  yacht  and  go  fishing  and  sailing  oc- 
casionally. 


.696 

March  17,  1897. 

Met  the  members  of  old  Second  Corps  at  the  Shoreham  last 
evening  and  marched  into  the  banquet  hall  with  Mr.  White  of 
Ohio  arid  J.  Russell  Young  as  my  guests.  Major  Mills,  whom  1 
had  invited,  was  also  present.  General  Grosvenor  led  off  with  a 
grand  toast,  then  Senator  Perkins,  General  Alger,  General  Miles, 
Archbishop  Ireland  and  several  other  members  of  the  Second 
Corps  followed. 

March  20,  1897. 

Paid  off  forty  men  this  evening,  who  have  been  working  like 
beavers  to  rush  my  building  operations. 

March  22,  1897. 

Was  up  before  sunrise  this  morning  and  had  forty-five  men  at 
work  including  carpenters,  plasterers,  bricklayers,  plumbers,  tin- 
ners, painters  and  helpers. 

March  29,  1897. 

In  conversation  with  Senator  Spooner  last  evening  he  agreed 
to  endorse  me  to  the  President  for  the  commissionership  to  suc- 
ceed Commissioner  Ross.  Senators  Powell  Clayton,  William 
Stewart  and  J.  B.  Fo raker  concurred. 

April  13,  1897. 

Newspapers  came  out  today  giving  me  credit  for  beating  the 
building  record,  as  I  have  fully  completed  the  house  and  the 
rooms  are  now  ready  to  be  occupied.  The  work  was  begun  at 
the  foundation,  the  material  being  brought  from  Washington, 
and  by  keeping  every  man  at  his  own  trade  and  working  extra 
hours  I  fully  completed  the  building  within  thirty  days  from  the 
time  I  commenced  it. 

May  n,  1897. 

After  finishing  the  new  addition  to  Fairfield  the  house  has  fifty 
rooms,  most  of  which  are  partly  furnished,  and  I  have  leased  it 
to  Mr.  Warfield  for  the  season,  reserving  two  rooms  for  myself. 

Appomattox,  Va.,  May  14,  1897. 

After  dinner  last  evening  I  returned  to  the  city  and  met  sev- 
eral friends  at  the  Shoreham  and  Chamberlin's.  I  was  up  at  sun- 
rise this  morning  and  left  Washington  on  the  8  o'clock  train. 
Met  Mr.  Harrison  at  Lynchburg  and  Senator  Flood  and  Pro- 
fessor Cabell,  the  latter  being  my  guest  at  the  hotel. 


697 

East  Appomattox,  Va.,  May  15,  1897. 

Mr.  Smith,  my  manager,  spent  most  of  last  evening  going 
through  business  details  with  me,  and  this  morning  at  7  o'clock 
brought  a  horse  for  us,  on  which  we  rode  over  the  battlefields. 
We  were  eight  hours  in  the  saddle,  the  Professor  making  a  mem- 
orandum of  the  number  of  buildings  on  the  land ;  counted  over 
forty.  The  more  I  see  of  this  country  the  more  I  like  it.  It  will 
eventually  make  a  grand  national  park,  and  the  Government 
should  own  it. 

Washington,  May  16,  1897. 

Senator  Hal  Flood  called  at  the  hotel  and  invited  Professor 
Cabell  and  myself  to  dine  with  .him  and  his  father,  Maj.  Joel 
Flood,  and  it  was  after  n  o'clock  last  evening  before  we  were 
through  with  our  dinner.  After  dinner  we  adjourned  to  the 
library  and  smoked  and  chatted  until  I  o'clock,  when  we  retired 
and  took  the  3  A.  M.  train  for  Washington.  I  stopped  over  at 
Monticello  and  dined  with  Hon.  Jefferson  Levy,  who  gave  a  four- 
teen-course  dinner  on  silver. 

June  10,  1897. 

Appeared  before  the  Board  of  Commissioners  today  in  relation 
to  having  water-pipes  connected  with  the  Nourse  road  and  with 
my  houses  in  that  section.  Had  quite  a  long  interview  with  Rev. 
Dr.  Corey  this  afternoon  in  regard  to  the  fifty  acres  on  Connec- 
ticut avenue  and  Pierce  Mill  road,  which  he  is  very  anxious  to 
purchase. 

July  10,  1897. 

Had  a  long  talk  with  the  Assistant  Secretary  of  War  this  after- 
noon, who  has  agreed  to  furnish  me  copies  of  papers  and  give 
special  attention  to  my  case  in  relation  to  brevet  promotion. 

July  13,  1897. 

Failing  to  meet  Senator  Daniel  at  his  house  last  evening,  I 
called  on  Rev.  Dr.  Talmadge,  who  introduced  me  to  his  daugh- 
ters, and  spent  an  interesting  hour  or  so  there.  I  then  called  on 
Mrs.  General  Jeffries  in  relation  to  renting  her  house  on  Sixteenth 
street  to  Congressman  Stewart  of  Wisconsin. 

Appomattox,  Va.,  August  8,  1897. 

Last  evening  after  being  entertained  by  Major  and  Mrs.  Flood 
at  1 1  o'clock  I  was  assigned  to  a  large  bedroom  which  his  great 


698 

grandfather  used  over  a  hundred  years  ago,  in  which  was  an  old 
suite  of  furniture,  a  very  valuable  souvenir.  The  bed  has  a  large 
canopied  top  and  steps  to  climb  up  to  it.  After  breakfast  this 
A.  M.  he  invited  me  to  attend  the  Sunday-school,  of  which  he  is 
the  superintendent,  and  met  a  great  many  of  my  neighbors' 
children,  most  all  of  whom  attend  a  log  church  in  the  woods,  and 
seem  very  devoted  to  the  services.  We  then  returned  to  the 
house,  where  I  was  treated  to  a  line  dinner  by  Mrs.  Flood.  They 
inherit  the  old-fashioned  way  of  taking  care  of  guests. 

Old  Point  Comfort,  August  10,  1897. 

Was  entertained  by  the  Westmoreland  Club  last  evening,  after 
which  I  put  up  at  the  Jefferson  Hotel.  Left  Richmond  this  morn- 
ing, coming  by  way  of  Hampton,  where  I  called  upon  Governor 
Woodfm,  who  entertained  me  very  pleasantly.  He  gave  me  a 
statement  in  regard  to  his  opinion  of  Sergeant  Thornton,  whom  I 
found  through  a  cabman,  who  brought  him  to  the  notary's  office, 
where  he  contradicted  the  affidavit  he  had  given  to  Lieutenant 
Duvall.  He  said  Mr.  Duvall  fixed  up  the  paper  and  he  signed  it, 
believing  it  was  in  my  favor.  After  being  questioned  in  the  pres- 
ence of  witnesses,  he  swore  to  his  statement  contradicting  every- 
thing that  had  reflected  upon  me  and  the  statement  prepared  by 
said  Duvall.  Called  on  Colonel  Whiting,  Senator  Faulkner's 
father-in-law,  whose  brother  from  Alabama  entertained  me  for 
several  hours. 

On  Boat  to  Albany,  August  19,  1897. 

Left  Fairfield  this  A.  M.,  calling  at  the  residence  of  General 
Swaim  just  in  time  to  hear  the  sermon  and  view  his  remains, 
which  looked  as  natural  as  life,  in  full-dress  uniform. 

Troy  House,  Troy,  N.  Y.,  August  20,  1897. 
Arrived  in  Albany  at  7  this  A.  M.,  and  at  8.30  took  a  trolley- 
car  to  this  city.  Met  Generals  King,  Henry,  Ruggles  and  quite 
a  number  of  Army  friends.  Second  Corps  meeting  took  place  at 
\  i  o'clock.  Elected  General  liatchelder  president  and  Colonel 
Cresscn  vice-president.  Nominated  General  Ruggles  for  Com- 
mander of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  Association.  I  opposed 
him  in  favor  of  General  Brooke. 


699 
\ 

August  21,  1897. 

Had  a  lively  time  last  evening  in  electing  officers  for  the  Army 
of  the  Potomac,  but  General  Ruggles  got  sixty-three  votes  and 
General  Green  thirty-seven.  It  looked  as  if  it  was  all  fixed  be- 
fore the  meeting  that  General  Ruggles  should  be  elected,  as  Gen- 
eral Batchelder  thought  it  was  a  good  idea  to  have  a  staff  officer 
at  the  head  for  a  change,  although  I  expected  his  co-operation 
with  me  for  General  Brooke.  Being  invited  into  the  parlor  with 
the  President  and  Cabinet  and  many  of  the  President's  imme- 
diate friends,  I  had  an  opportunity  of  having  a  pleasant  conver- 
sation before  taking  carriages  to  visit  the  factories  and  cemetery. 
Dr.  Scott,  Miss  King,  Colonel  Black  of  General  Miles'  staff  and 
several  of  us  had  a  very  interesting  time  going  through  the  collar 
factories.  Thousands  were  employed  in  making  shirts  and  col- 
lars, and  we  were  instructed  how  it  was  done ;  bolts  of  linen  and 
cotton  being  put  in  and  shirts  and  collars  already  starched  being 
brought  out  in  a  few  minutes.  A  steamboat  ride  to  the  Troy 
arsenal  proved  a  grand  success,  and  the  President,  with  every- 
one else,  is  greatly  elated  with  his  entertainment.  Colonel  Mac- 
Arthur,  the  editor  of  the  Troy  Times,  was  complimented  for  his 
successful  entertainment. 

Iroquois  Hotel,  Buffalo,  N.  Y.,  August  22,  1897. 

It  was  4  o'clock  this  A.  M.  before  I  retired,  as  we  had  one  of  the 
grandest  banquets  that  Troy  has  given  for  years.  General 
Sickles,  Colonel  Tremain,  General  Ruggles,  Major  Woodruff  and 
others  delivered  very  interesting  speeches.  After  the  banquet 
Mr.  Parkman  invited  me  to  call  at  his  house  at  No.  8  Washing- 
ton Place,  which  I  did  just  before  leaving  Troy,  and  was  enter- 
tained by  himself  and  wife. 

August  23,  1897. 

Captain  Crittenden,  Captain  Irvin,  Captain  Doubleday  and  I 
have  secured  a  room,  and  each  have  a  cot,  and  are  so  tired  out  we 
cannot  help  but  rest.  During  the  afternoon  a  large  party  of  us 
visited  Niagara  Falls  and  the  gorge,  which  was  one  of  the  grand- 
est sights  I  ever  saw.  Young  Mr.  Yeomans,  whose  father  is  In- 
terstate Commerce  Commissioner  in  Washington,  took  charge 
of  the  resolutions  in  relation  to  Appomattox,  and  is  fixing  it  up. 


yoo 

August  24,  1897. 
I  was  visiting  posts  and  meeting  old  Army  friends  until  2  this 

A.  M.     After  breakfast  called  on  General  Clarkson,  the  Com- 
mander-in- Chief  of  the   Grand  Army,   with   Colonel  Adams  of 
New  York.    After  reading  the  resolution  carefully  through  he  as- 
sured me  that  he  would  do  his  utmost  to  have  it  adopted.     Had 
quite  a  pleasant  interview  with  Hon.  Dan  Lockwood.     Col.  Geo. 

B.  Fielder  of  New  Jersey  has  agreed  to  introduce  the  resolution 
and  recommend  the  Grand  Army  to  adopt  it  and  purchase  Ap- 
pomattox  for  a  national  park. 

August  25,  1897. 

Met  many  friends  whom  I  had  not  seen  for  years  from  all  parts 
of  the  country  last  evening,  and  was  entertained  by  Lafayette 
1  'ost  of  New  York,  by  Colonel  Adams  and  others  ;  also  by  Captain 
Crittenden,  late  of  the  Fourteenth  Connecticut.  Mr.  Yeomans 
and  Corporal  James  Tanner  secured  tickets,  inviting  me  on  the 
grand  stand,  where  I  had  a  splendid  seat  near  the  President  dur- 
ing the  review  of  the  parade. 

Niagara  Falls,  on  the  Train,  August  26,  1897. 
General  Butterfield  and  wife,  General  Flagler  and  wife,  Gen- 
eral Ruggles  and  Secretary  of  War  Alger  and  many  others  were 
on  the  stand,  and  last  evening  General  Fielder  of  New  Jersey  and 
Colonel  Adams,  Captain  Crittenden  and  myself  met  together 
and  fixed  papers  in  relation  to  Appomattox  Park,  which  was 
unanimously  adopted  by  the  Grand  Army.  I  left  Buffalo  on  the 
5.  30  train  for  Toronto  and  Kingston. 

Windsor  Hotel,  Montreal,  Canada,  August  27,  1897. 

I  was  up  almost  all  night,  as  I  had  to  change  cars  at  Toronto, 
Canada,  for  Kingston,  where  I  got  on  a  boat  at  4  this  A.  M. 
Arriving  here  at  6  P.  M.,  had  a  splendid  supper  and  was  as- 
signed to  an  elegant  room  on  the  second  floor,  meeting  Mr.  Cum- 
mings  of  Illinois,  who  has  become  quite  interested  and  friendly, 
and  after  breakfast  this  morning  we  took  in  the  whole  city,  visit- 
ing the  heights,  a  number  of  churches,  and  most  every  place  of 
interest. 

Utica,  N.  Y.,  August  30,  1897. 

Last  evening  I  took  Miss  Carro  and  Miss  Frazer  and  her 
mother  to  the  KnHish  Church,  where  Rev.  Dr.  Green  of  Cedar 


701 


Rapids  preached  a  fine  sermon.     The  Queen  and  all  the  royal 

family  were  prayed  for.    The  boat  got  off  during  the  night,  and 

]   landed  at  Clayton,  where  the  custom-house  officers  searched 

my  valise. 

Saratoga,  N.  Y.,  August  31,  1897. 
On  my  way  here  last  evening  I  stopped  over  at  Oneida,  where 

1  met  Mrs.  Beal.    She  invited  me  to  tea,  and  informed  me  that  her 

husband  and  Mr.  Gale  had 
gone  to  White  Lake  fishing, 
where  I  told  her  I  would  try 
to  meet  them.  I  took  the 
1.30  train  for  White  Lake, 
and  landed  there  at  4  this 
A.  M.  I  hired  a  team  and 
drove  to  Colonel  Hulser's 
house,  arriving  at  sunrise. 
When  the  old  Colonel  met 
me  he  threw  both  arms 
around  me,  being  so  glad  to 
see  me.  After  breakfast 
Mr.  Beal,  Mr.  Gale,  Colonel 
Hulser,  the  boys  and  myself 
took  a  row  on  the  lake,  and 
afterwards  roasted  sugar 
corn  and  visited  on  the 
beach.  The  old  Colonel  was 
greatly  disappointed  in  my 
COL.  o.  F.  HULSEK.  not  remaining  with  him 

longer.     After  spending  a  very  pleasant  day  and  enjoying  the 

Colonel's  hospitality,  I  was  obliged  to  leave. 

Grand  Union  Hotel,  Saratoga,  September  i,  1897. 
After  dinner  last  evening  Colonel  Hulser  was  very  anxious  to 
take  me  to  the  station  in  one  of  his  boats,  but  I  found  that  he 
would  hardly  have  time,  and  therefore  came  down  in  a  carriage. 
He  seemed  greatly  worried  that  I  did  not  remain  with  him  longer, 
ns  he  was  a  devoted  commanding  officer  thirty-five  years  ago.  I 
changed  cars  for  Albany,  came  by  Troy,  and  landed  here  at  8.45 
last  evening,  and  have  an  elegant  room  in  this  hotel.  Colonel 
Hay  wood  and  Major  Scott  and  all  of  us  went  to  the  springs  after 


702    f 

breakfast  today.    Among  my  old  friends  whom  I  met  this  after- 
noon are  Mrs.  Major  Weeks  and  Rev.  Dr.  Corey. 

Washington,  December  26,  1897. 

Have  been  very  busy  fixing  up  my  houses  and  getting  them 
ready  for  rent.  Am  trying  to  secure  Mrs.  Murphy's  appointment 
in  the  Interior  Department,  and  hope  to  succeed.  Have  ne- 
glected many  business  matters  in  order  to  secure  justice  at  the 
hands  of  Secretary  Alger,  who  has  promised  me  to  aid  to  that 
end,  but  appears  to  be  under  the  influence  of  subordinates  who 
are  trying  to  break  me  down. 

December  31,  1897. 

As  hard  as  I  have  worked  during  the  past  year  with  Secretary 
Alger  I  have  not  been  able  to  accomplish  my  main  object,  which 
is  to  have  my  name  sent  to  the  Senate  for  brevet  Lieutenant- 
Colonel.  After  winding  up  my  affairs  I  find  that  I  have  cleared 
about  $75,000  in  my  business  transactions  this  year. 

War  Department,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  January  4,  1897. 
Capt.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 

U.  S.  Army, 

1405  F  street,  Washington,  D.  C: 

Sir — T  have  the  honor  to  inform  you  that  your  letter  of  the  28th 
ultimo  has  been  laid  before  the  Secretary  of  War,  who  directs  me 
to  say  that  the  matter  of  your  claim  for  a  brevet  has  once  been  de- 
termined, and  that  he  is  not  now  disposed  to  reopen  it. 
Very  respectfully, 

GEO.  D.  RUGGLES, 

Adjutant-General. 

January  14. 
[Extract  from  the  Post.] 

The  veterans  of  the  Second  Army  Corps  Association,  at  the 
Ebbitt  House  last  evening,  presided  over  by  Capt.  N.  M.  Brooks, 
in  the  absence  of  General  Miles,  who  is  now  in  New  York,  deliv- 
ered eulogies  on  the  life  *  *  *  A  great  deal  of  interest  was  mani- 
fested in  the  proposed  memorial  bridge  over  the  Potomac  river 
into  Arlington,  and  after  earnest  discussion  the  following  commit- 
tee was  appointed  to  urge  it  upon  Congress:  Gen.  J.  S.  Smith, 
Gen.  R.  N.  Batchelder,  Maj.  G.  A.  Armes,  Capt.  H.  C.  Stevens 
and  Capt.  Charles  Lyman. 

The  executive  committee  was  instructed  to  at  once  begin  prep- 
arations for  the  annual  banquet  to  be  held  March  13. 


CHAPTER  XXXVI. 

January  I,  1898. 

Spent  most  of  last  evening  at  the  Ebbitt  House  with  Queen 
Liliuokalani  and  the  Hawaian  Commission.  These  sang  and 
played  native  pieces  on  the  mandolin,  guitar  and  piano  in  the 
hotel  parlors,  where  quite  a  number  had  assembled.  In  the  party 
\vere  Her  Majesty  Liliuokalani,  Joseph  Heleluhe,  Mrs.  Ululari 
Heleluhe,  David  Kalauokalani,  James  H.  Haulia,  John  Richard- 
son, William  Auld,  Governor  and  Mrs.  Crawford  and  Admiral 
and  Mrs.  Beardslee.  After  breakfast  this  morning  dressed  in  full 
uniform  and  made  the  usual  calls,  official  and  otherwise. 

January  10,  1898. 

Judge  J.  D.  Yeomans  of  the  Interstate  Commerce  Commission 
called  at  my  office  and  left  his  card  today.  I  met  him  during  the 
afternoon  at  his  office  in  the  Sun  Building  with  Hon.  J.  M.  Wiley 
of  New  York,  against  whom  I  had  a  suit  pending  about  ready  to 
be  called.  We  settled  out  of  court  upon  Mr.  Wile)''  giving  me 
his  note  for  $50,  payable  in  thirty  days,  and  Judge  Yeomans 
agreeing  to  send  me  a  registered  thorougbred  colt  to  Chicago 
free  of  charge.  If  he  bought  any  land  in  this  vicinity  he  would 
bring"  the  colt  here  with  their  stock  without  cost  to  me.  The  suit 
against  Wiley  was  for  an  overcharge  on  a  pair  of  horses  I  pur- 
chased for  $1200  which  did  not  turn  out  as  represented. 

January  13,  1898. 

Called  at  the  Ebbitt  last  evening,  where  I  met  Miss  Schmidt, 
but  had  to  leave  her  at  8.30  to  attend  the  Second  Army  Corps 
meeting  at  Willard's  where  I  nominated  and  helped  elect  Gen.  M. 
I.  Ludington  as  president  of  the  association. 

January  14,  1898. 

After  breakfast  called  at  the  War  Department,  where  I  spent 
mo.st  of  the  day.  Had  a  short  interview  with  General  Miles  in 
regard  to  my  brevet  case. 


704 

January  20,  1898. 

Reached  office  at  10  o'clock,  and  after  answering  a  few  letters 
called  on  General  Miles  at  the  War  Department  in  regard  to 
Lieutenant  Duvall,  who,  he  informed  me,  had  made  some  sort 
of  a  charge  against  me. 

January  24,  1898. 

After  breakfast  I  called  on  the  Assistant  Secretary  of  War,  who 
told  me  General  Miles  had  suggested  that  a  board  be  appointed 
to  investigate  General  Hancock's  recommendation  of  myself  for 
brevet  Lieutenant-Colonel,  and  desired  to  know  if  I  had  any  ob- 
jections to  a  board  examining  into  the  facts.  I  told  him  I  had 
not,  provided  he  appointed  honorable  men,  but  that  they  were 
very  scarce  among  the  officers  of  the  War  Department.  Upon 
asking  me  if  I  were  willing  to  give  the  names  of  those  whom  I 
had  confidence  in,  I  told  him  certainly,  and  gave  him  the  names 
of  nine,  stating  that  I  would  be  satisfied  with  a  board  composed 
of  any  three  selected  from  the  nine  names  suggested,  and  it  was 
agreed  to.  I  then  gave  him  the  names  of  Brigadier-General 
Hreckinridge,  Col.  Thomas  Ward,  Maj.  W.  H.  Carter,  Col.  Chas. 
Bird,  Col.  H.  C.  Corbin,  Maj.  H.  ().  S.  Hiestand,  Maj.  J.  N.  Mor- 
rison, Col.  C.  F.  Humphrey  and  Lieut. -Col.  A.  McArthur.  He 
said  he  would  let  me  know  the  result  in  the  morning. 

January  25,  1898. 

After  calling  upon  Vice-President  Hobart  last  evening  I  met 
General  Grosvenor  at  the  Cochran  and  had  a  very  pleasant  inter- 
view. After  breakfast  drove  to  the  War  Department,  where  I  was 
informed  by  the  Assistant  Secretary  that  he  had  appointed  a 
board  consisting  of  General  Breckinridge,  Colonel  Ward  and 
Major  Carter  to  investigate  my  brevet  case.  T  told  him  I  was 
perfectly  satisfied  and  would  abide  by  their  decision. 

January  30,  1898. 

Went  to  the  Capitol  today  and  had  a  long  talk  with  General 
Hull,  chairman  of  the  Military  Committee  of  the  House,  who 
told  me  he  had  referred  my  Appomattox  bill  to  General  Marsh 
of  Illinois. 

January  31,  1898. 

Saw  the  Assistant  Secretary  today,  and  he  informed  me  that 
Adjutant-General  Breck  had  represented  to  him  that  the  board 


705 

appointed  would  inconvenience  him.  Was  informed  today  that 
my  wishes  as  to  the  board  on  brevet  were  disregarded,  and  one 
consisting  of  Colonel  Young,  Third  Cavalry;  Major  Lebo,  Sixth 
Cavalry,  and  Major  Conrad,  Eighth  Infantry,  had  been  selected, 
all  being  officers  well  known  to  be  opposed  to  me. 

February  7,  1898. 

Spent  several  hours  last  evening  at  the  Normandy,  where  I  met 
Gen.  George  B.  Fielder,  who  has  just  arrived  from  Jersey  City 
and  who  came  over  in  the  interest  of  the  Appomattox  bill,  he 
having  .been  appointed  the  chairman  of  the  committee  of  five 
selected  by  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  Association  to  meet  in 
Washington  for  the  purpose  of  explaining  the  necessity  of  Appo- 
mattox being  purchased  for  a  national  park. 

February  8,  1898. 

After  the  bill  was  prepared  and  approved  of  by  General 
Fielder  and  his  committee,  Senator  Proctor  of  Vermont  intro- 
duced it  in  the  Senate. 

February  9,  1898. 

General  Fielder  and  I  called  at  the  War  Department  today  to 
examine  maps  in  relation  to  the  park.  The  Secretary  of  War,  at 
our  request,  ordered  them  sent  to  the  Military  Committee  of  the 
House  for  their  information.  Called  on  ex-Secretary  of  the 
Navy  Herbert,  who  has  agreed  to  interest  himself  in  the  passage 
of  the  bill. 

February  17,  1898. 

Met  my  old  Captain,  F.  M.  H.  Kendricks,  Seventh  United 
States  Infantry,  last  evening  at  the  Ebbitt  House.  I  was  as  glad 
to  see  him  as  if  he  had  been  my  brother,  we  not  having  met  for 
over  thirty-four  years,  when  we  served  together  in  the  same 
company,  he  as  Captain  and  I  as  Second  Lieutenant. 

March  4,  1898. 

Having  been  appointed  a  member  of  the  Memorial  Bridge 
Committee,  called  on  Senators  Warren,  Bacon,  Rollins  and 
Faulkner,  who  have  agreed  to  do  what  they  can  to  urge  its  pas- 
sage. 


7o6 

March  7,  1898. 

Had  quite  a  discussion  with  Mr.  Heald  of  the  firm  of  Worthing- 
ton  &  Heald  in  relation  to  the  transaction  with  Dr.  Bliss  for  Six- 
teenth street  property.  He  gave  me  a  check  for  $1000  on 
account. 

March  9,  1898. 

Have  scarcely  missed  a  day  during  the  past  three  months  from 
being  at  the  War  Department  in  connection  with  my  brevet  bill. 
Assistant  Secretary  Meiklejohn  told  me  today  the  papers  of  the 
board  were  ready  and  I  could  see  them  soon. 

March  10,  1898. 

Attended  the  Second  Army  Corps  Association  meeting  last 
evening,  which  passed  a  resolution  recommending  General  Miles 
for  Lieutenant-General,  a  committee  being  appointed  to  wait  on 
Congress  to  urge  the  passage  of  the  bill.  Called  on  Secretary 
Meiklejohn  today,  who  told  me  the  board  had  made  an  unfavora- 
ble report  in  my  case.  General  Corbin  agreed  that  I  should  see 
it.  Meeting  Major  Garlington,  he  requested  me  to  come  to  his 
office  this  afternoon,  and  when  I  appeared  he  undertook  to  ques- 
tion me,  but  I  declined  until  after  I  saw  the  Duvall  report. 

March  n,  1898. 

I  reached  the  War  Department  at  10  o'clock  this  A.  M.,  but  it 
was  after  12  before  I  could  read  the  report  of  Colonel  Young's 
board,  which  required  an  order  of  the  Secretary  of  War  to  see, 
to  find  out  the  result.  The  report  is  a  disgrace  to  those  who 
made  it.  Major  Garlington  tried  to  take  snap  judgment  on  me 
before  I  saw  the  Duvall  report,  which  General  Corbin  finally  or- 
dered him,  through  Major  Carter,  to  let  me  see. 

March  22,   1898. 

Spent  last  evening  at  the  Ebbitt  House  until  after  n  o'clock 
with  Major  Gardiner  and  ladies.  Called  at  the  War  Department 
today  and  had  quite  a  lively  talk  with  Major  Garlington  in  rela- 
tion to  the  board's  report. 

March  23,   1898. 

Called  on  General  Miles  and  General  Corbin.  Mr.  Meikle- 
john agreed  to  let  me  see  the  full  report  of  the  board.  Had  an 
interview  with  Inspector-General  Breckinridge  in  regard  to  the 
infamous  matter. 


March  24,  1898. 

Attended  the  meeting  of  the  Sons  of  the  American  Revolution 
last  evening  at  Rauscher's,  where  an  elegant  lunch  was  served. 
Captain  Goodwin,  Fourteenth  Infantry,  was  my  guest.  I  called 
on  the  Secretary  of  War  today  in  regard  to  Colonel  Young,  Major 
Lebo  and  Major  Conrad,  who  had  made  such  a  disgraceful  re- 
port in  my  case,  and  wrote  the  following  letter  to  him  in  relation 
to  the  outrage : 

Washington,  D.  C,  March  23,  1898. 
To  the  Hon.  Secretary  of  War, 

(Through  the  Adjutant-General  of  the  Army) : 

Sir — Adverting  to  the  letter  of  the  Assistant  Adjutant-General 
of  March  18,  1898,  I  desire  to  say  that  the  Board  of  Investigation, 
as  now  constituted,  consisting  of  Col.  S.  B.  M.  Young,  Third  Cav- 
alry; Maj.  Thomas  C.  Lebo,  Sixth  Cavalry,  and  Maj.  C.  H.  Conrad, 
Eighth  Infantry,  is  not  competent  to  deal  with  the  questions  in- 
volved in  my  application  for  a  brevet  commission.  It  will  be  ob- 
served that  some  of  the  allegations  contained  in  my  preliminary 
statement,  addressed  to  the  Board  February  i,  1898,  are  of  a  very 
serious  character  and  of  vital  importance  to  me  and  to  others  in 
the  Army;  therefore  they  could  not  be  properly  sifted  and  deter- 
mined by  such  a  constituted  Board  of  Investigation.  It  does  not 
act  under  oath,  and  has  no  power  whatever  to  compel  the  attend- 
ance of  witnesses  or  to  swear  them  when  present,  and  can  exer- 
cise none  of  the  peculiar  legal  functions  of  a  court-martial  or 
court  of  inquiry.  It  must  be  remembered  that  I  have  repeatedly 
asserted,  and  am  ready  to  maintain,  that  certain  officers  of  the 
Army,  who  have  zealously  labored  to  prevent  me  from  getting  the 
brevet  sought  for,  have  caused  false  and  malicious  affidavits  to  be 
trumped  up  against  me  through  some  reckless  and  lying  negroes. 
My  chief  object,  therefore,  in  assenting  to  a  Board  of  Investiga- 
tion was  to  have  these  scandalous  and  malicious  affidavits  and 
other  charges  carefully  investigated  and  the  rascality  connected 
with  them  fully  exposed.  But  it  must  be  manifest  that  there  is  no 
hope  of  accomplishing  this  object  through  the  present  Board,  even 
though  its  members  were,  in  all  other  respects,  competent  and 
qualified  to  act.  It  will  be  noticed  that  there  is  a  Board  appointed 
to  investigate  and  report  upon  a  matter,  without  the  requisite 
powers  or  qualifications  to  investigate.  Hence,  nothing  but  a  mis- 
carriage of  justice  could  be  reasonably  expected.  To  avoid  this  I 
most  respectfully,  but  earnestly,  protest  against  the  action  already 
taken  by  the  Board;  also  against  any  further  action  being  taken 
by  it.  And  I  request  that  the  report  made  by  the  said  Board  be 
disapproved  and  set  aside,  and  that  said  Board  be  discharged 
from  the  further  investigation  or  consideration  of  this  matter  for 
the  following  reasons,  to  wit: 


70S 

1.  Said  Board  of  Investigation  is  not  composed  of  the  officers 
who  were  named  by  me  and  agreed  to  by  the  Assistant  Secretary 
of  War,  and  is,  therefore,  not  a  properly  constituted  Board. 

2.  I  have  every  reason  to  believe,  and  can  establish  by  compe- 
tent proof,  that  the  members  of  the  present  Board  of  Investiga- 
tion were,  and  are,  strongly  prejudiced  against  me,  and  therefore 
were,  and  are  now,  incompetent  to  proceed  with  the  investigation. 

3.  The  deliberations  of  the  Board  were  unlawful  and  contrary 
to  the  spirit,  if  not  the  letter,  of  Army  Regulations  and  the  Articles 
of  War — having  been  carried  on  in  secret  sessions  and  with  closed 
doors,  thus  depriving  me  of  the  opportunity  and  privilege  of  ap- 
pearing before  them  in  person  to  present  or  explain  my  case.    Said 
Board  did  not  officially  notify  me  to  appear  before  it,  although  I 
had  abundance  of  evidence,  oral  and  documentary,  to  submit  to 
their  consideration  in  support  of  my  claim,  and  was  ready  and  pre- 
pared to  do  so  on  short  notice. 

4.  Being  the  only  party  in  interest,  and  the  only  party  to  be 
benefited  or  injured  by  the  investigation  and  report  of  the  Board, 
it  must  be  manifest  that  a  secret  investigation  and  determination 
of  the  matter  in  my  absence,  and  without  an  opportunity  to  be 
heard,  savors  of  a  star  chamber  proceeding,  obviously  disclosing 
gross  ignorance  or  enmity  on  the  part  of  said  Board. 

5.  Having  on  many  battlefields  during  the  war,  and  since  then 
011  the  plains,  risked  my  life  in  defending  the  Government  and  the 
flag,  and  for  conspicuous  bravery  on  the  field  of  battle  having  been 
recommended  by  General  Hancock  and  other  distinguished  offi- 
cers for  the  brevet  promotion  I  now  seek,  I  will  not  insult  those 
distinguished  officers  by  now  permitting  this  prejudiced  and  in- 
competent Board  of  subordinate  officers  to  investigate  or  disturb 
the  recommendations  or  opinions  expressed  by  them,  as  eye-wit- 
nesses of  my  meritorious  services,  and  neither  will  I  knowingly 
permit  my  stainless  war  record  to  be  smirched  or  recklessly  as- 
sailed by  anyone  without  resenting  it  to  the  last  extremity  within 
the  compass  and  range  of  a  true  soldier. 

I  may  further  add  that  to  adopt  or  approve  of  the  report  already 
made  by  the  Board  of  Investigation  would  be  a  serious  reflection 
upon  the  integrity  and  official  conduct  of  the  present  Adjutant- 
General  of  the  Army,  inasmuch  as  that  officer,  after  making  a  thor- 
ough and  careful  investigation  of  the  case,  recommended  me  to 
my  superiors,  while  the  report  in  question  would  seem  to  imply 
that  in  thus  sustaining  me  he  had  knowingly  made  a  false  recom- 
mendation. 

With  these  observations,  I  respectfully  submit  this  matter  to 
the  consideration  of  the  Department,  and  earnestly  invoke  its  aid 
in  carrying  into  effect  the  requests  I  have  made  in  the  foregoing 
statements.  Justice  to  me  and  the  good  of  the  service  demand  that 


709 

the  irregular,  unjust  and  unlawful  proceedings  herein  complained 
of  should  not  be  sanctioned  by  the  Government. 
Very  respectfully  submitted, 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES. 

March  26,  1898.' 

Called  on  General  Corbin  and  Assistant  Secretary  of  War  to- 
day in  relation  to  my  case. 

April  8,  1898. 

Had  a  long  interview  with  Hon.  John  Russell  Young,  who 
agreed  with  me  that  the  act  making  General  Schofield  a  Lieu- 
tenant-General  and  placing  him  on  the  retired  list  should  be  re- 
pealed. Had  a  pleasant  interview  with  General  Miles  today  also, 
and  quite  a  plain  understanding  with  General  Corbin,  requesting 
him  to  modify  his  endorsement  of  the  bill  for  my  restoration  and 
promotion  to  Colonel  in  the  Army. 

April  9,  1898. 

Wrote  a  letter  to  the  Secretary  of  War  today  calling  attention 
to  General  Schofield's  cowardice  and  his  misrepresentations.  He 
was  very  pleasant,  and  said  he  would  do  what  he  could,  but  soon 
convinced  me  he  was  under  the  control  of  subordinates  and  was 
a  man  without  sufficient  force  of  character  to  assert  his  own 
opinion.  The  letter  follows : 

Washington,  D.  C,  April  9,  1898. 
To  the  Hon.  Secretary  of  War, 

(Through  the  Adjutant-General  of  the  Army) : 

Sir — From  newspaper  accounts  I  see  that  you  are  placing  con- 
siderable confidence  in  Gen.  John  M.  Schofield's  recommenda- 
tions and  suggestions,  and  in  order  to  put  you  on  your  guard,  I 
submit  the  following  facts,  that  you  may  know  what  kind  of  a  man 
you  are  dealing  with.  The  following  is  an  extract  from  a  letter 
written  by  Gen.  James  B.  Steedman  some  time  ago,  which  is 
headed: 

"ROBBING  THE  DEAD. 

General   Schofield's   Attempt  to   Seize   the   Laurels   of  General 

Thomas. 

"Robbing  a  grave  of  a  body  is  a  light  crime  compared  with  steal- 
ing the  honors  which  rightfully  belong  to  a  dead  illustrious  patriot 
and  soldier.  The  letter  of  Gen.  J.  M.  Schofield,  claiming  that  he 
suggested  changes  in  the  battle  of  Nashville  which  were  adopted 
by  Gen.  George  H.  Thomas,  surpasses  in  cheek  and  falsehood  all 
the  absurd  lies  about  the  war  we  have  ever  read.  Schofield's  claim 


yio 

to  a  part  of  the  laurels  that  encircled  the  brow  of  the  grand  old 
kRock  of  Chickamauga'  makes  the  self-lauding  fiction  written  by 
General  Sherman  a  modest  production.  There  are  four  living  wit- 
nesses— Generals  Wood,  Smith,  Wilson  and  Steedman — who  were 
in  the  council  of  war  held  in  the  St.  Cloud  Hotel,  in  Nashville,  pre- 
sided over  by  General  Thomas,  all  of  whom  can  testify  that  Gen- 
eral Schofielcl  states  a  deliberate  falsehood  when  he  says  that,  as 
the  ranking  officer  next  to  the  commanding  General,  he  waived  his 
right  to  speak  last,  and  promptly  sustained  General  Thomas.  The 
truth  is,  General  Schofield  did  not  speak  at  all  until  all  the  other 
Generals  had  given  their  opinions,  and  then  only  said  he  would 
obey  orders.  General  Thomas  knew  three  days  before  the  battle 
of  Nashville  that  Schofield  was  playing  the  part  of  Judas  by  tele- 
graphing to  General  Grant  at  Washington  disparaging  sugges- 
tions about  the  action  of  Thomas,  saying  in  one  dispatch:  Tt  is 
the  opinion  of  all  our  officers  with  whom  I  have  conversed  that 
General  Thomas  is  too  tardy  in  moving  against  the  enemy/  It 
was  known  to  a  number  of  our  officers  that,  pending  the  battle, 
which  was  postponed  for  several  days  by  Thomas  because  our 
Army  could  not  move  on  account  of  the  earth  being  covered  with 
ice  for  miles  around  Nashville,  produced  by  a  heavy  rain  freezing 
as  it  fell,  Schofield  was  intriguing  with  Grant  to  get  Thomas  re- 
lieved, in  order  that  he  might  succeed  to  the  command  of  our 
Army  as  the  General  next  in  rank  to  Thomas.  The  character  of 
Schofield  as  an  ambitious,  unscrupulous  intriguer  caused  suspi- 
cion to  fall  upon  him  as  the  person  who  was  disparaging  General 
Thomas  at  Washington,  and  he  wras  watched  and  exposed  to 
Thomas  as  a  deceitful,  unfaithful  subordinate,  who  was  engaged 
in  a  plot  to  relieve  and  disgrace  his  commander,  the  ablest,  most 
honored  and  dearly  loved  soldier  of  the  Army  of  the  Cumberland. 
It  was  Maj.-Gen.  George  H.  Thomas  who  planned  and  fought  the 
battle  of  Nashville  on  his  own  plan,  and  General  Schofield  had 
nothing  to  do  with  originating  or  modifying  that  plan,  nor  did  his 
command  participate  actively  in  the  battle.  Schofield' s  command, 
the  Twenty-third  Corps,  a  magnificent  body  of  gallant  soldiers, 
was  in  reserve,  did  very  little  fighting  in  the  battle  of  Nashville, 
and  suffered  but  a  trifling  loss  in  the  engagement.  The  infrantry 
forming  our  line  of  battle  was  under  the  command  of  Gen.  A.  J. 
Smith,  who  commanded  the  right;  General  Wood,  who  com- 
manded the  center,  and  General  Steedman,  who  commanded  the 
left.  The  right  was  protected  by  our  cavalry,  under  the  command 
of  the  gallant  General  Wilson.  General  Schofield  was  ordered  by 
General  Thomas  to  support  General  Smith  with  his  command, 
and  while  in  the  execution  of  the  order  a  portion  of  his  command 
was  engaged  and  lost  a  few  men. 


"We  were  not  in  the  battle  of  Franklin,  but  we  know  from  the 
statements  made  to  us  by  hundreds  of  soldiers  who  were  in  that 
battle  that  it  was  Generals  Stanley  and  Cox  who  commanded  the 
troops  in  the  field,  while  General  Schofield,  who  now  seeks  to  rob 
the  brave  and  skillful  officers  who  were  with  the  troops  and  com- 
manding them,  of  the  honor  due  them,  was  on  the  north  side  of  the 
Harpeth  river,  two*  miles  from  Carter's  Hill,  where  the  battle  was 
fought.  It  was  an  intrepid,  heroic  Ohio  soldier — General  Op- 
dyke — who,  seeing  the  peril  of  our  troops  when  the  rebels  broke 
through  our  lines,  ordered  his  men  with  the  bayonet  to  drive  back 
the  enemy,  gallantly  led  them  to  execute  his  orders,  and  saved  the 
Army.  Stanley  was  badly  wounded  in  the  fight.  Cox,  although 
exposed  to  the  balls  of  the  enemy,  nobly  did  his  duty  and  escaped 
unhurt.  Opdyke,  who  was  promoted  for  his  heroism,  passed  the 
ordeal  unscathed.  During  the  whole  of  the  terrible  bloody  fight- 
ing of  the  battle  of  Franklin  the  nominal  commander,  the  officer 
who  had  the  right  to  command  by  virtue  of  his  rank,  and  who 
would  have  been  personally  in  command  if  he  had  not  been  an 
exceedingly  cautious  man,  comes  forward  now  and  claims  to  be  not 
only  the  hero  of  Franklin,  but  the  wise  and  able  General  whose 
suggestions  gave  victory  to  General  Thomas'  Army  at  Nashville. 

"In  the  name  of  the  grand  hero  who  sleeps  in  his  honored  grave, 
we  protest  against  the  recognition  of  the  false,  infamous  claim  of 
Schofield,  whom  we  brand  as  the  slanderer  of  both  the  living  and 
dead  soldiers  of  the  Army  of  the  Cumberland.  We  do  not  say  that 
Schofield  is  a  rank  coward,  but  we  can,  from  personal  knowledge, 
safely  state  that  he  possesses  the  rascally  'virtue  called  caution'  in 
an  eminent  degree.  We  know  from  remarks  we  heard  him  make 
at  Chattanooga  that  he  envied  and  hated  Thomas,  because  the 
soldiers  loved  and  honored  him.  The  ambition  of  Schofield  was 
boundless,  and  his  military  career  an  utter  failure.  He  may  have 
been  under  fire,  but  he  was  never  exposed  to  the  balls  of  the  enemy 
to  our  knowledge,  and  we  served  under  him  for  some  time.  He 
had  several  opportunities  while  we  were  under  his  command  to  get 
in  range  of  the  bullets  of  the  enemy,  but  we  never  knew  him  to  be 
reckless  enough  to  expose  his  carcass  to  the  fire  of  the  rebels." 

In  addition  to  the  above  extract,  I  would  respectfully  invite  your 
attention  to  the  Rebellion  Records,  which,  in  several  places,  con- 
firm what  General  Steedman  says  in  regard  to  General  Schofield's 
cowardice  and  attempts  to  shun  danger.  I  think  the  records  will 
also  show  that  he  claimed  the  credit  for  the  victory  at  the  battle  of 
Franklin,  and  was  breveted  through  misrepresentations.  The 
medal  he  now  wears  was  a  self-conferred  distinction  for  imaginary 
services.  The  records  will  also  bear  me  out  in  saying  that  he  has 
shielded  officers  of  the  Army  whom  he  knew  to  be  guilty  of  of- 
fenses for  which  they  would  have  been  cashiered  or  sent  to  prison, 


712 

in  order  to  save  his  friends.  It  is  well  known  that  he  tried  to  sac- 
rifice other  brave  officers  who  served  through  the  war  with  dis- 
tinction, and  who  had  been  recommended,  time  and  again,  for 
promotion  for  gallant  services  in  the  field. 

In  my  opinion  he  is  now  trying  to  undermine  Gen.  Nelson  A. 
Miles,  whose  promotion,  step  by  step,  was  gained  by  solid  and 
honest  service  in  the  field,  and  whose  present  high  rank  is 
grounded  on  a  military  career  unprecedented  in  the  history  of  the 
United  States  Army.  I  submit  that  it  is  not  fair  treatment  of  Gen- 
eral Miles,  now  at  the  head  of  the  Army,  to  throw  him  into  eclipse 
by  giving  this  man  Schofield  any  recognition  whatever — a  man 
whose  high  rank  as  Lieutenant- General  has  been  obtained  through 
political  intrigue,  treachery  and  deceit.  The  bill  constituting  him 
a  Lieutenant-General  should  be  repealed  and  the  taxpayers  saved 
from  an  unjust  burden.  It  would  be  a  disgrace  to  the  American 
nation  and  to  the  militia  of  all  the  States,  to  give  this  man  any  com- 
mand whatever  over  it.  The  time  has  come  when  Schofield  should 
cease  to  pose  as  a  big  man. 

The  suggestions  I  have  here  made  are  given  in  a  friendly  spirit 
and  intended  for  the  best  interests  of  the  service  and  the  country  at 
large. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES. 

That  it  may  not  appear  that  I  have  been  malicious  in  my  criti- 
cism of  Gen.  Schofield,  the  following  letter  will  show  that  others 
of  higher  rank  than  myself  had  the  same  opinion  as  has  been  ex- 
pressed in  these  pages  : 

Fort  Smith  Ark.,  December  9,  1863. 
Hon.  E.  M.  Stanton, 

Secretary  of  War. 

Sir  :  A  sense  of  justice  to  myself,  as  well  as  duty  to  the  Gov- 
ernment, prompts  me  to  address  yon  directly  in  reference  to  my 

present  position. 

%  *  *  *  * 

I  deem  it  my  duty  to  say  that  I  shall  not  report  to  General 
Schofield  by  letter  from  Leavenworth  City,  as  directed  in  his 
Orders,  No.  118.  or  hold  any  further  intercourse  or  communication 
with  him,  except  to  prefer  charges  against  him  for  incompetency 
and  cowardice  in  connection  with  his  military  operations  in  the 
Southwest  a  year  ago.  In  determining  upon  this  course  of  action, 
I  disclaim  any  intention  to  manifest  a  spirit  of  insubordination 
toward  my  superiors  ;  I  cannot  acknowledge  General  Schofield  as 

my  superior  officer  until  he  is  a  major-general. 

*  *  *  # 

Respectfully  your  obedient  servant, 

JAS.  G.  BLUNT, 
Major-General. 


Washington,  D.  C.,  April  27,  1898. 
Hon.  William  McKinley, 

President  of  the  United  States : 

Sir — I  have  the  honor  to  request  that  you  appoint  me  Brigadier- 
General  of  Volunteers,  as  I  desire  to  enter  the  active  service  again 
under  the  old  flag.  From  1861  to  1865  I  served  in  the  field,  much 
of  the  time  performing  staff  duty  with  General  Hancock  and  other 
prominent  Generals,  who  have  left  on  record  many  testimonials 
as  to  my  ability  and  experience  in  handling  troops.  Born  and 
raised  a  Virginian,  almost  in  sight  of  Mt.  Vernon,  I  entered  the 
Union  Army  at  the  outbreak  of  the  Rebellion,  and  followed  the 
flag  through  to  the  wind-up  at  Appomattox.  After  the  war  closed 
I  saw  active  duty  on  the  plains  against  the  Indians,  and  several 
years'  experience  in  Texas  familiarized  me  with  that  country,  and 
particularly  along  the  Rio  Grande,  where  I  might  be  now  of  some 
service  to  the  Government  during  the  present  war  with  Spain. 

I  will  agree  to  raise,  in  ten  days'  time,  a  sufficient  number  of 
troops  to  justify  the  commission  you  may  tender  me,  whether  it  be 
that  of  a  Brigadier  or  Major-General.  Thousands  have  expressed 
a  wish  to  enter  the  service  under  my  command 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  sir,  your  most  obedient  servant, 

GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

Capt.  U.  S.  A.  (Ret'd). 


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The  President. 

sir  :— 

We,  the  undersigned,  urgently  recommend  and 

request  tho  appointment  of  Col.  George  A.  Armor,,  retired,  to  the  posi- 
tion of  Brigadier  General  of  Volunteers.  His  military  record  during 
the  lato  v/ar  ootwoon  the  States,  and  cincc  then  in  the  Indian  ware  on 
the  Plaino,  juotly  entitles  him  to  the  rocognltion  asked  for.  lie  feel 
aecurod  that  his  appointment  would  give  general  caticfactloh  to  tho 
anni^and  tho  country  at  lar^o.   Col.  Armcc  enter  dd  tho  Union  Army  fron 
Virginia,  and  served  v;ith  great  gallantry  to  tho  cloao  of  tho  v;ar,  ro- 
celving  several  promotions  for  distiiv^ilnhod  service  on  tho  field.  Wo 
urge  thio  appointment  ao  one  ominer.tli'  proper  to  be  made,  bo  l  lev  ing 
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May  8,  1898. 

Spent  last  evening  at  the  Ebbitt  with  General  and  Mrs.  Nash, 
whom  I  have  not  seen  for  several  years.  I  congratulated  him 
upon  his  promotion  to  Commissary-General.  He  and  his  wife  are 
very  proud  of  the  honor. 


7->3 

May  20,  1898. 

Saw  Secretary  Meiklejohn  again  today,  who  consented  to  my 
seeing  all  the  papers  that  Major  Garlington  had  fixed  up.  Took 
Mrs.  Senator  Warren,  her  father  and  sister  to  Camp  Alger  near 
Falls  Church. 

June  i,  1898. 

Saw  Congressman  Wise  last  evening  at  the  Ebbitt  House,  who 
according  to  an  agreement  called  with  me  to  see  the  President 
today,  where  we  met  Senators  Faulkner,  Thurston  and  many 
other  of  my  friends.  The  President  treated  us  very  pleasantly, 
saying  he  would  examine  the  papers  and  give  me  justice.  I  then 
called  on  the  Secretary  of  War,  who  seemed  a  little  vexed  to 
think  that  I  would  insist  upon  favorable  action,  and  I  inferred 
that  he  would  do  all  he  could  to  prevent  it. 

May  14,  1898. 

Attended  Jefferson  dinner  last  evening  at  the  National  Rifles' 
Hall  and  listened  to  the  speeches  of  Mr.  William  J.  Bryan,  Sen- 
ator Jones,  Governor  Tyler,  Dr.  Harper,  Mr.  Croker  of  New 
York  and  many  others. 

June  3,  1898. 

Flad  a  long  talk  with  Senator  Spooner,  who  promised  me  his 
support.  While  at  the  Adjutant-General's  office  today  I  met  Gov- 
ernor Beaver,  who  shook  hands  with  me. 

June  n,  1898. 

Called  on  Col.  Beriah  Wilkins  today,  who  agreed  to  do  every- 
thing in  his  power  to  assist  me  with  the  President.  Also  saw 
the  President,  who  has  sent  my  papers  back  to  the  War  De- 
partment. 

December  31,  1898. 

General  Alger's  pretended  friendship  in  our  many  conversa- 
tions and  meetings  before  he  was  made  Secretary  of  War  has 
failed,  to  meet  my  expectations  officially,  for  no  other  reason  that 
T  can  account  for  than  that  he  has  placed  himself  in  the  power  of 
a  few  incompetent  and  dishonorable  subordinates,  who  seem  to 
control  his  course  as  Secretary  of  W~ar,  causing  the  newspapers 
and  the  whole  country  to  attack  him  in  the  most  violent  manner. 
I  cannot  recall  where  any  official  in  public  life  has  ever  been 
abused  and  scandalized  more  than  Secretary  Russell  A.  Alger, 
unless  it  was  Belknap.  Socially  he  has  been  friendly. 


724 

The  following  papers  in  chronological  order  will  serve  to  illus- 
trate the  events  of  the  year  1898: 


Washington,  D.  C,  January  22,  i! 
Maj.-Gen.  Nelson  A.  Miles,  U.  S.  A., 

Washington,  D.  C. : 

Dear  General — I  hope  you  will  be  able  to  find  time  enough  from 
your  many  duties  to  look  carefully  into  the  merits  of  my  case,  and 
not  allow  me  to  be  slaughtered  through  the  misrepresentations  of 
subordinates,  several  of  whom  I  have  ignored  and  have  no  respect 
for.  There  has  been  an  element  in  the  War  Department  for  years 
determined  to  crush  and  ruin  me,  deceiving  those  in  authority  by 
all  kinds  of  malicious  representations,  tending  to  reflect  upon  my 
character  as  an  officer  and  a  gentleman.  There  is  nothing  that 
can  be  brought  against  me  that  I  am  ashamed  to  face  and  cannot 
fully  explain  to  the  satisfaction  of  any  honest  man.  I  have  an- 
swered every  excuse  that  General  Schofield  made  for  his  alleged 
reason  in  not  sending  up  my  nomination,  and  there  are  no  good 
reasons  why  it  should  not  be  sent  up,  with  the  exception  that  Gen- 
eral SchofiekFs  friends  and  supporters,  who  are  my  enemies,  some 
of  whom  are  holding  positions  where  they  can  cowardly  place  on 
the  record  such  malicious  stuff  that  a  stranger,  without  thorough 
investigation,  is  liable  to  form  unfavorable  opinions. 

From  the  fact  that  I  earned  this  brevet,  and  was  recommended 
for  it  by  my  post  commander  at  the  time,  after,  as  he  states  in  his 
report,  a  careful  examination  and  without  any  solicitation  or  re- 
quest on  my  part,  I  do  not  think  any  weight  should  be  given  to  a 
malevolent  and  made-up  charge,  supported  only  by  the  cross- 
mark  of  a  degraded  and  insubordinate  negro  who  was  used  at 
that  time  for  the  purpose  of  trying  to  prevent  my  restoration  to 
the  service,  and  which,  after  a  thorough  investigation  at  the  time, 
was  settled  in  my  favor.  You  cannot  help  but  see  what  a  small, 
contemptible  and  disgraceful  act  it  was  for  General  Schofield,  Col- 
onel Vincent  and  the  other  cowardly  sneaks  who  conspired  to  try 
and  secure  the  evidence  from  more  ignorant  negroes  to  sustain  the 
first  affidavit  that  had  been  filed  away  for  years,  which  affidavit 
they  had  read  and  copied  over  to  suit  themselves,  in  order  to  ob- 
tain the  marks  of  these  ignorant  negroes,  which,  you  know  as  well 
as  myself,  can  be  secured  by  an  officer  of  the  Army  who  will  fix  up 
any  kind  of  paper,  and  call  in  one  of  these  illiterate  negroes  and 
have  him  swear  to  it,  the  negro  taking  for  granted  that  whatever 
this  Army  officer  may  tell  him  to  do  is  all  right.  And  at  this  late 
day  to  bring  up  a  matter  of  this  kind  is  not  only  a  reflection  upon 
me,  but  upon  Colonel  Corbin,  my  post  commander;  Generals  Han- 
cock and  Sherman  and  other  officers  who  supported  me  during  my 
career  in  the  Army.  Therefore,  when  it  is  properly  considered,  it 
can  easily  be  seen  that  there  was  a  conspiracy  and  these  dishonor- 


725 

able  and  vicious  means  used  in  a  cowardly  and  underhanded  man- 
ner to  try  and  crush  me.  All  I  can  say  is  that  I  will  defend  my 
honor  against  any  imputations  as  long  as  I  have  strength  enough 
to  do  so. 

Hoping  you  will  be  able  to  end  this  matter  with  as  little  delay  as 
possible,  and  prevent  serious  trouble  and  scandal,  which,  in  the 
end,  will  not  prove  of  a.ny  interest  to  the  service,  or  to  those  mixed 
up  in  it,  and  believing  you  to  be  my  true  friend,  I  remain, 
Yours  truly, 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMES. 

January  27,  1898. 
Captain  George  A.  Armes, 

1401  F  Street  N.  W., 

Washington,  D.  C. 
Dear  Sir : 

The  Major  General  Commanding  directs  me  to  acknowledge  the 
receipt  of  your  letter,  marked  "personal",  of  January  22,  1898, 
the  subject-matter  of  which  refers  entirely  to  official  matters,  and 
to  inform  you  that  your  language  and  statements  concerning  offi- 
cers of  the  Army  and  officials  of  the  War  Department  cannot  be 
received,  either  personally  or  officially,  without  meeting  proper  and 
official  consideration.  He  further  directs  me  to  say  that  if  you 
have  any  grievance  or  complaint  to  make,  the  Army  Regulations 
amply  provide  the  proper  course  for  you  to  pursue,  and  hereafter 
it  would  be  advisable  for  you  to  govern  yourself  accordingly. 
Very  respectfully, 
(Signed)  J.  C.  GILMORE, 

Assistant  Adjutant  General. 

(Third  Endorsement.) 

v  War  Department,  January  25,  1898. 

Respectfully  referred  to  the  Adjutant-General  to  convene  a 
Board,  consisting  of  Brig.-Gen.  J.  C.  Breckinridge,  Col.  Thomas 
Ward  and  Ma j.  W.  H.  Carter,  to  investigate  the  application  of 
Maj.  Geo.  A.  Armes  for  appointment  as  Brevet  Lieutenant-Colo- 
nel, report  the  facts  and  make  recommendations  thereon. 
By  order  of  the  Acting  Secretary  of  War, 

JOHN  TWEEDALE, 

Chief  Clerk. 
(Fourth  Endorsement.) 

A.  G.  O.,  January  27,  1898. 

On  further  consideration,  the  Acting  Secretary  of  War  modifies 
the  detail  for-  this  Board  to  the  following: 

Colonel  Young,  Third  Cavalry;  Major  Lebo,  Sixth  Cavalry; 
Major  Conrad,  Eighth  Infantry. 

The  Board  to  be  convened  at  Fort  Myer  by  letter. 

SAML.  BRECK, 

Adj  utant-General. 


726 

Headquarters  of  the  Army,  Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  January  29,  1898. 

Col.  S.  B.  M.  Young,  Third  Cavalry,  Washington,  D.  C.; 
Maj.  Thomas  C.  Lebo,  Sixth  Cavalry,  Fort  Myer,  Virginia; 
Maj.  C.  H.  Conrad,  Eighth  Infantry,  War  Department: 

Gentlemen — I  am  instructed  by  the  Major-General  Command- 
ing the  Army  to  inform  you  that,  by  direction  of  the  Acting  Secre- 
tary of  War,  you  are  constituted  a  Board  to  meet  at  Fort  Myer, 
Virginia,  upon  the  call  of  the  senior  member,  for  the  purpose  of 
investigating  and  reporting  upon  the  application  of  Capt.  George 
A.  Armes,  retired,  for  appointment  as  Lieutenant-Colonel  by 
brevet,  United  States  Army.  The  Acting  Secretary  desires  that 
the  Board  report  the  facts  ascertained,  and  transmit  the  report,  with 
their  recommendations  thereon,  to  the  Adjutant-General  of  the 
Army. 

Very  respectfully, 

SAML.  BRECK, 

Adjutant-General. 
For  MAJ.  GEORGE  A.  ARMES, 

U.  S.  A.  (Ret'd), 

Washington,  D.  C. 

Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  February  9,  1898. 
Capt.  George  A.  Armes, 

U.  S.  Army  (Ret'd), 

1405  F  Street  N.  W., 

Washington,  D.  C. : 

Sir — I  am  desired  by  the  Acting  Secretary  of  War  to  acknowl- 
edge the  receipt  of  your  letter  of  the  2d  inst.,  in  regard  to  your 
appearing  before  the  Board  appointed  to  examine  into  the  matter 
of  your  claim  for  a  brevet,  and  to  inform  you  that  your  request 
was  sent  to  the  Board  for  its  consideration,  and  has  been  returned 
with  the  information  that  you  have  been  advised  by  the  Board  that 
if  you  have  anything  to  communicate  to  it  touching  the  matter  of 
your  claim  you  can  do  so  in  writing,  and  that  if  the  Board  desires 
your  presence  you  will  be  so  informed. 

Very  respectfully. 

(Signed)         THEO.  SCHWAN, 

Asst.  Adjt.-Gen. 

Washington,  D.  C,  February  18,  1898. 
To  His  Excellency  William  McKinley, 

President  of  the  United  States: 

Sir — It  having  occurred  to  me  that  "a  stitch  in  time  saves  nine," 
I  respectfully  call  your  attention  to  the  fact  that,  in  my  opinion,  a 
force  of  50,000  volunteers,  with  10,000  regulars,  and  with  our 
Navy  promptly  concentrated  in  the  vicinity  of  Key  West,  Florida, 


727 

with  General  Brooke  in  command,  ready,  if  necessary  to  defend 
our  honor  as  a  nation,  we  can  either  require  the  payment  for  loss 
of  the  "Maine,"  indemnity  for  loss  of  lives,  or  take  possession  of 
Cuba — and  the  whole  question  settled  within  sixty  days,  with 
honor  and  credit  to  our  country.  I,  therefore,  tender  my  services, 
and  agree  to  organize  25,000  men,  ready  for  active  service,  within 
five  days  from  the  time  authority  is  given  me  and  as  soon  as  you 
become  satisfied  that  the  situation  is  in  such  shape  that  prompt- 
ness is  required.  Congress  and  the  country  will  sustain  you  in  set- 
tling the  Cuban  question  immediately. 
Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         G.  A.  ARMES. 

23  Fifth  Avenue, 

New  York,  March  I,  1897. 
My  Dear  Colonel  Armes : 

I  shall  be  glad  to  attend  the  Second  Army  Corps  Banquet  in 
Washington  on  the  ibth  inst.,  if  able  to  make  the  journey  back  to 
Philadelphia  on  the  following  day,  where  I  have  already  promised 
to  dine  with  the  Hibernian  Society  on  St.  Patrick's  Day. 

I  always  find  pleasure  in  meeting  representatives  of  the  Second 
Corps — Hancock's  Braves — of  whom  you  are  one,  and  to  whom 
I  know  he  was  much  attached. 

Sincerely  yours, 

D.  E.  SICKLES. 
COL.  GEO.  A.  ARMES, 

U.  S.  A. 

Washington,  D.  C.,  March  29,  1898. 
To  the  Hon.  Secretary  of  War: 

Sir — A  resolution  having  been  offered  and  adopted  at  a  meeting 
of  the  Second  Army  Corps  Association,  and  the  undersigned  ap- 
pointed as  a  committee  to  urge  the  passage  of  the  bill  pending  in 
Congress  for  the  construction  of  a  Memorial  Bridge  across  the 
Potomac  river  to  Arlington,  we  respectfully  request  that  the  Hon. 
Secretary  of  War  recommend  its  passage  and  especially  call  the 
attention  of  Congress  to  the  necessity  of  a  bridge  being  established 
for  the  use  of  troops  encamped  on  the  Virginia  side  of  the  river,  in 
addition  to  the  many  other  urgent  reasons  why  it  should  be  con- 
structed. 

Very  respectfully, 

(Signed)         G.  A.  ARMES. 

R.  A.  BATCHELDER. 

A  BILL  FOR  THE  RELIEF  OF  CAPT.  GEORGE  A.  ARMES. 
Be  it  enacted  by  the  Senate  and  House  of  Representatives  of 
the  United  States  of  America  in  Congress  assembled,  That  the 
provisions  of  law  regulating  appointments  in  the  Army,  by  pro- 


728 

motion  in  the  line,  are  hereby  suspended  for  the  purpose  of  this 
Act,  and  only  so  far  as  they  affect  George  A.  Armes,  and  the  Pres- 
ident can,  if  he  so  desires,  in  the  exercise  of  his  own  discretion  and 
judgment,  reinstate,  and,  by  and  with  the  advice  and  consent  of 
the  Senate,  appoint  said  George  A.  Armes,  Captain,  retired,  in  any 
vacancy  occurring  in  any  regiment  of  cavalry,  to  the  rank  and 
grade  he  would  have  held  if  he  had  remained  continuously  in  the 
service  on  the  active  list. 

Sec.  2.  That  all  pay  and  allowance  from  June,  1870,  unjustly 
withheld  from  said  Armes,  by  reason  of  the  proceedings  or  find- 
ings of  any  court-martial,  or  retiring  board,  upon  proper  proofs 
being  made,  shall  be  refunded  and  paid  to  said  Armes  out  of  any 
funds  in  the  Treasury  not  otherwise  appropriated. 

(First  Endorsement.) 

A.  G.  O.,  Washington,  April  5,  1898. 

Respectfully  returned  to  the  Secretary  of  War. 

This  bill  provided  in  effect  that  Captain  Armes  shall  be  restored 
to  the  active  list  and  be  appointed  to  a  vacancy  of  Colonel  in  the 
cavalry  arm.  To  do  this  would  set  aside  or  suspend  the  promo- 
tion of  a  Lieutenant-Colonel,  a  Major,  a  Captain,  a  First  Lieuten- 
ant and  a  Second  Lieutenant  of  cavalry  when  a  vacancy  of  Colonel 
happens,  and  retard  by  one  file  the  promotion  of  cavalry  officers 
below  the  rank  of  Colonel.  Captain  Armes  was  placed  on  the  re- 
tired list  September  15,  1883,  by  direction  of  the  President,  upon 
the  finding  of  a  retiring  board  that  he  "is  incapacitated  for  active 
service,"  and  that  "such  incapacity  is  caused  by  nervous  prostra- 
tion, mental  excitability  and  cardiac  dilation."  A  statement  of  As- 
sistant Surgeon  Carter,  Post  Surgeon  at  Fort  Stockton,  Texas, 
where  Captain  Armes  wras  stationed,  which  is  attached  to  the  pro- 
ceedings of  the  board,  says: 

"I  have  no  hesitation  whatever  in  declaring  my  belief  that  Cap- 
tain Armes'  condition  is  such  as  to  render  him  unfit  for  the  respon- 
sibility and  duties  incident  to  the  service,  even  as  they  occur  in  the 
comparatively  easy  and  regular  routine  of  ordinary  garrison  life, 
and  positively  incapacitates  him  to  meet  and  discharge  any  weighty 
responsibility  that  might  arise  in  any  emergency." 

Under  all  circumstances  it  is  believed  that  the  legislation  pro- 
posed would  result  in  no  benefit  whatever  to  the  military  service, 
but,  on  the  contrary,  that  it  would  be  detrimental  to  its  interests, 
of  very  doubtful  benefit  to  the  individual  on  whose  behalf  it  is  pro- 
posed, and  unjust  to  the  officers  who  have  continuously  rendered 
service  to  the  Government,  in  depriving  them  of  promotions  to 
which  they  would  be  justly  entitled  upon  the  occurrence  of  a  va- 
cancy of  Colonel  in  the  cavalry  arm. 

(Signed)         H.  C.  CORBIN, 

Adjutant-General. 


729 
Washington,  D.  C,  April  7,  1898. 

S~*  1    T          X~"          y^  1      • 

Gen.  H.  C.  Corbm, 

Adjutant-General,  U.  S.  A. : 

Sir — Having  read  your  endorsement  in  relation  to  Senate  Bill 
No.  4305,  referred  to  the  War  Department  for  report,  I  confess 
that  I  was  shocked,  amazed  and  disappointed  by  such  a  statement 
from  one  whom  I  had  supposed  was  sufficiently  fair  and  friendly 
to  make  a  favorable  report.  Before  the  bill  is  returned,  I  would 
suggest  that  it  may  be  to  your  own  interest  in  the  future  to  modify 
that  endorsement,  which  the  records  will  show,  by  an  honest  and 
careful  examination,  should  be  in  my  favor.  I  have  never  said  a 
word  to  anyone  that  could  be  construed  to  cast  the  least  reflection 
upon  your  own  record. 

I  look  upon  your  Department  as  one  that  should  be  run  upon 
honest  principles,  the  same  as  a  bank,  and  when  any  employe  of  a 
bank  has  been  discovered  to  be  a  thief,  proper  steps  are  generally 
taken  to  dispose  of  him,  and  the  Army  should  be  conducted  on 
the  same  principle.  Drum,  Ruggles  and  Breck  proved  to  be  cow- 
ardly and  treacherous  in  that  capacity,  as  I  have  had  occasion  to 
know  from  my  own  experience.  Socially,  General  Ruggles  was 
very  interesting  and  entertaining;  officially,  he  did  not  act  honestly 
with  me.  Generals  Williams  and  Kelton  left  honorable  records, 
and  I  had  no  fault  to  find  with  their  official  duties  in  my  case. 

You  have  a  splendid  chance  to  fill  with  honor  and  distinction  the 
position  you  now  hold — a  better  chance,  I  think,  than  any  man 
heretofore  appointed  from  the  volunteer  service  in  our  Army.  If 
you  begin  your  new  duties  by  showing  the  country  that  you  pro- 
pose to  act  upon  honest  principles,  and  do  justice  to  all,  you  will 
surely  succeed  in  establishing  a  record  to  be  proud  of,  although  it 
will  be  quite  a  task  for  a  time  to  weed  out  of  the  Army  the  many 
unworthy  creatures  now  posing  as  honest  men.  .  I  cannot  refrain 
from  reminding  you  that  while  others  have  given  out  many  seri- 
ous and  damaging  things  about  your  record,  which,  if  true,  would 
greatly  astonish  your  friends  and  the  public,  I  have  always  stood 
by  you  and  defended  you  against  such  aspersions  concerning  your 
record,  whether  during  or  since  the  war. 

It  should  be  remembered  that  the  Assistant  Surgeon  at  Fort 
Stockton,  w^ho  assisted  Colonels  Wade  and  Grierson  in  having  me 
retired,  had  been  reprimanded  by  me  for  quite  a  serious  offense 
when  I  was  in  command  of  the  post.  He  afterwards  took  advan- 
tage of  his  official  position  to  connive  with  others  to  ruin  me,  if 
possible.  The  alleged  reasons  given  from  that  source  for  my  re- 
tirement were  false  and  known  to  be  false  by  the  instigators. 

I  write  this,  not  in  a  fault-finding  spirit,  and  not  for  the  purpose 
of  causing  you  to  do  me  any  special  favor  not  fully  justified  or 
warranted  by  the  facts  of  this  case;  all  I  ask  is  to  be  fairly  dealt 
with. 

Respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         G.  A.  ARMES, 
Capt,  U.  S.  A.  (Ret'd). 


730 

In  Camp  near  Santiago,  August  7,  1898. 
My  Dear  Father: 

We  have  been  rushed  around  so  lively,  and  my  supply  of  writing 
paper  was  so  short  until  three  days  ago,  when  I  received  a  small 
package  of  it,  that  it  has  been  impossible  for  me  to  write  to  you 
before.  Even  now  I  have  only  a  few  minutes  to  spare,  so  cannot 
give  detailed  accounts  of  things.  We  have  had  a  pretty  rough 
time  of  it.  After  a  forced  march,  reached  the  firing  line  in  time  to 
have  a  few  bullets  whistle  over  our  heads,  and  to  learn  what  the 
shriek  of  a  shell  sounds  like.  We  also  found  out  what  it  was  to 
dig  trenches  for  forty-eight  hours  straight,  without  food  or  sleep, 
little  water,  a  hot  sun,  violent  rains,  inky  darkness  at  night — ex- 
cept when  the  lightning  flashed  over — and,  worse  than  all,  the 
whistle  of  some  stray  bullets  among  us.  All  of  the  above  I  know 
you  have  experienced,  so  will  not  dwell  on  them  longer.  We  have 
orders  to  leave  early  this  wreek  for  Long  Island,  and  it  is  rumored 
that  we  will  be  mustered  out  soon  after,  and  if  you  find  out  such 
to  be  the  facts  of  the  case,  try  and  see  some  one  at  the  Museum 
and  secure  a  good  position  for  me  there  upon  my  return. 

Plas  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  held  its  reunion  yet,  and  do  you 
expect  to  attend?  Unless  I  get  seasick  on  the  boat  I  will  have  a 
chance  to  write  you  a  long  letter  soon;  but,  then,  at  the  last  minute, 
the  order  for  departure  might  change,  and  we  may  have  to  remain 
here  much  longer.  I  hope  not,  anyway.  Oscar's  company  started 
for  Puerto  Rico,  but  I  heard  they  had  gotten  near  Santiago  when 
they  received  orders  to  return  to  Port  Tampa.  Warren  Reed,  who 
used  to  be  in  your  employ,  now  a  private  in  K  Company,  seems  to 
keep  well,  but  he  is  sick  of  his  job,  and  says  he  wishes  he  was  back 
attending  to  your  horses  again.  William  Poore  of  Tennallytown, 
who  enlisted  in  Co.  K.,  died  of  typhoid  fever  at  Sibony,  Province 
of  Santiago,  Cuba.  As  for  myself,  I  am  perfectly  well,  with  the 
exception  of  a  slight  cold.  I  had  a  six  days'  case  of  mountain  fever, 
but  went  back  on  duty  last  Wednesday.  Under  the  full  rations  1 
am  now  getting  I  am  growing  fat.  Good-bye  until  next  time. 
Write  as  soon  as  you  can. 

Your  loving  son, 

GEORGE  K.  ARMES, 
Co.  E,  First  District  Vols. 

To  the  Editor  Army  and  Navy  Register: 

Dear  Sir — The  enclosed  is  a  copy  of  a  letter  I  sent  to  the  Secre- 
tary of  War,  in  order  that  he  might  investigate  General  Wade  be- 
fore he  was  sent  on  so  important  a  mission.  I  also  desire  to  espe- 
cially call  your  attention  to  the  fact  that  I  never  made  a  false  charge 
against  anyone,  or  have  I  ever  made  a  charge  against  an  officer 
except  for  the  interest  of  the  service.  After  I  had  first  been  mis- 
represented, villified  and  persecuted,  and  in  every  instance  where 


an  officer  has  been  tried  upon  charges  made  by  me  he  has  been  con- 
victed, and  in  several  cases  sentenced  to  the  penitentiary.  One 
officer,  who  fixed  tip  a  set  of  false  charges  against  me,  served  a 
term  in  the  penitentiary  before  he  was  made  a  Captain  in  the  reg- 
ular.Army,  and  many  of  his  friends  are  still  at  the  War  Department 
taking  advantage  of  their  present  positions  to  keep  me  misrepre- 
sented. I  can  truthfully  say  that  no  charges  have  ever  been  made 
against  me  by  any  officer  of  the  Army  who  is,  or  ever  was,  a  gen- 
tleman and  honest  in  his  motives.  And  all  I  can  say  is,  that  when 
such  men-3.s  Wade  and  Clous  are  selected  for  responsible  trusts, 
it  might  prevent  serious  embarrassment  to  know  who  they  are 
before  they  are  placed  in  important  positions,  and  I  think  the  files 
of  the  War  Department  will  show  I  am  right. 
Respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         G.  A.  ARMES. 

Washington,  D.  C,  November  2,  1898. 
To  the  Hon.  Secretary  of  War, 

(Through  the  Adjutant-General,  U.  S.  A.: 
Sir — I  respectfully  call  your  attention  to  the  order  of  the  Act- 
ing Secretary  of  War,  dated  September  27,  1895,  ordering  me  in 
arrest.    As  I  have  not  received  any  order  from  the  War  Depart- 
ment relieving  me,  I  respectfully  request  that  one  be  issued. 
Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         G.  A.  ARMES. 
November  26,  1898. 

Verbally  relieved  by  General  Schwan. 
By  order  of 

GEN.  H.  C.  CORBIN, 

Adjutant-General. 


Senate  Chamber, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  December  19,  1898. 
Maj.  Geo.  A.  Armes, 

Washington,  D.  C. : 

Dear  Major — I  have  unintentionally  misled  you  about  the  nom- 
inations of  Gen.  S.  B.  M.  Young,  Gen.  J.  W.  Clous  and  Capt.  Wil- 
liam P.  Duvall.  I  think  they  were  confirmed  Thursday  afternoon. 
I  do  not  think  you  lose  anything  by  it,  for  I  feel  assured  that  those 
gentlemen  were  held  in  siich  estimation  that  nothing  would  pre- 
vent their  confirmation. 

Yours  truly, 

(Signed)         J.  R.  HAVVLEY. 


732 

Washington,  D.  C,  March  11,  1898. 
Maj.-Gen.  Nelson  A.  Miles, 

Commanding  Army  of  the  United  States, 

(Through  the  Adjutant-General,  U.  S.  A.) : 

Sir — Having  just  glanced  over  the  report  submitted  by  the 
Board,  composed  of  Colonel  Young,  Major  Lebo  and  Major  Con- 
rad, appointed  to  look  into  the  matter  in  relation  to  my  brevet,  I 
hasten  to  call  your  attention  to  the  unjust  position  in  which  it 
places  me.  The  report  shows  upon  its  face  a  lack  of  fairness  and 
an  evident  purpose  on  the  part  of  the  Board  to  do  me  a  great  in- 
justice. The  report  further  shows  upon  its  face  that  the  deliber- 
ations of  the  Board  wrere  conducted  altogether  in  my  absence,  and 
without  giving  me  an  opportunity  to  be  heard,  although  I  solicited 
in  writing  that  the  opportunity  should  be  given  me.  It  must  be 
obvious  that  the  proceeding  was  not  only  ex  parte,  but  controlled 
by  influences  hostile  to  me  personally  and  to  my  claim,  and  in  vio- 
lation of  the  Articles  of  War  and  the  Army  Regulations. 

Such  a  finding  and  such  a  report,  emanating  from  a  "Star  Cham- 
ber" proceeding,  should  not  be  sanctioned  by  the  General  of  the 
Army,  and  will  not  be  sanctioned  by  the  public  at  large,  and  I  am 
ready  and  prepared  to  show,  upon  a  fair  and  open  investigation 
that  all  the  material  allegations  contained  in  the  report,  affecting 
the  matter  in  controversy,  are  absolutely  false  and  unworthy  the 
attention  of  the  Department  or  of  any  honest  man. 

Therefore,  reposing  great  trust  and  confidence  in  the  integrity 
and  the  fairness  of  the  present  Commanding  General  of  the  Army, 
whose  keen  sense  of  justice  will  not  knowingly  permit  the  perpe- 
tration of  such  an  outrage  upon  an  officer  who,  during  the  war, 
and  subsequently  on  the  plains,  discharged  his  whole  duty,  to  the 
satisfaction  of  his  superior  officers  and  the  Government,  and  was 
recommended  for  the  brevet  in  question  by  the  most  gallant  and 
distinguished  officers  of  the  Army,  after  a  careful  investigation  at 
the  time,  as  the  records  of  the  Department  clearly  and  conclu- 
sively show,  I  most  respectfully  request  that  no  definite  action  be 
taken  on  this  report  until  said  Board  has  been  reconvened,  the  case 
reconsidered  and  an  opportunity  has  been  given  me  to  appear  be- 
fore the  same  in  my  own  defense. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         GEORGE  A.  ARMES, 

Capt.,  U.  S.  A.  (Ret'd). 

(First  Endorsement.) 

A.  G.  O.,  March  12,  i 
For  the  Commanding  General  of  the  Army. 


733 

(Second  Endorsement.) 
Headquarters  of  the  Army, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  March  15,  i! 
The  Major-General  Commanding  recommends  that  the  Board 
be  reconvened,  and  that  this  communication  be  referred  to  it. 

J.  C.  GILMORE, 
Assistant  Adjutant-General. 

(Third  Endorsement.) 
Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  March  17,  1898. 

Respectfully  referred,  by  direction  of  the  Secretary  of  War,  to 
Col.  S.  B.  M.  Young,  Third  Cavalry,  Washington,  D.  C.,  Presi- 
dent of  the  board  of  officers  convened  under  the  letter  of  instruc- 
tions from  this  office  of  January  29,  1898,  and  adjourned,  sine  die, 
February  28,  1898.  The  Secretary  directs  that  Colonel  Young 
reassemble  the  Board  for  the  consideration  of  this  complaint,  and 
for  such  action  thereupon  as  they  may  deem  just  and  proper. 

The  proceedings  of  the  Board,  together  with  the  papers  upon 
which  the  Board  was  originally  appointed,  are  herewith. 

H.  C.  CORBIN, 

Adjutant-General. 

(Fourth  Endorsement.) 

Washington  City,  March  21,  1898. 

Respectfully  returned  to  the  Adjutant-General  of  the  Army,  at- 
tention invited  to  additional  proceedings  herewith. 

S.  B.  M.  YOUNG, 
Col.  Third  Cav.,  President. 

(Fifth  Endorsement.) 
Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  March  22,  1898. 

Respectfully  returned  to  the  Major-General  Commanding  the 
Army,  inviting  attention  to  the  additional  proceedings  of  the  Board 
of  Officers  in"  this  case,  attached  to  its  former  proceedings,  here- 
with, and  to  its  findings  and  recommendations,  as  set  forth  therein. 

THEO.  SCHWAN, 
Asst.  Adjutant-General. 

(Sixth  Endorsement.) 
Headquarters  of  the  Army, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  March  25,  1898. 

Respectfully  submitted  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  attention  in- 
vited to  the  last  paragraph  of  the  additional  proceedings  of  the 
Board,  dated  M'arch  21,  1898. 

NELSON  A.  MILES, 
Major-General  Commanding. 


734 

(Seventh  Endorsement.) 
Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  D.  C,  March  26,  1898. 

Respectfully  referred,  by  direction  of  the  Assistant  Secretary 
of  War,  to  the  Judge  Advocate  General,  U.  S.  A.,  for  his  report 
and  recommendation  on  the  additional  proceedings  of  the  Board  of 
Officers  of  which  Col.  S.  B.  M.  Young,  Third  Cavalry,  was  Presi- 
dent, in  the  case  of  Captain  Armes,  herewith. 

The  Assistant  Secretary  desires  that  the  proceedings  of  this 
Board  and  the  report  of  Major  Garlington,  Inspector-General,  of 
his  investigation  of  the  complaint  of  Lieutenant  Duvall  against 
Captain  Armes,  and  also  the  letter  of  Captain  Armes  of  the  23d 
inst.,  herewith,  be  considered  confidential  until  the  Judge  Advo- 
cate General  shall  have  submitted  his  report. 

THEO.  SCHWAN, 
Asst.  Adjutant-General. 

(Eighth  Endorsement.) 
War  Department,  Judge  Advocate  General's  Office, 

Washington,  March  28,  1898. 
Respectfully  returned  to  the  Adjutant-General. 
In  view  of  Captain  Armes'  letter  of  March  23,  1898,  to  the  Sec- 
retary of  War,  it  will  probably  not  be  considered  necessary  to  carry 
out  the  recommendation  of  the  Board,  that  Captain  Armes  be  re- 
quired to  set  forth  the  facts  on  which  he  bases  the  charges  against 
the  members  .of  tfie  Board,  wrhich  are  contained  in  his  communica- 
tion (to  the  Major-General  Commanding  of  March  n),  even  if 
this  would  otherwise  have  been  desirable. 

I  would  recommend  that  Colonel  Young  be  furnished  with 
copies  of  Captain  Armes'  letters  of  March  1 1  and  23,  with  a  view 
to  his  preferring  charges.  If  charges  should  be  preferred  it  would 
be  best  that  it  should  be  done  in  this  way. 

G.  NORMAN  LIEBER, 

Judge  Advocate  General. 

(Ninth  Endorsement.) 
Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  March  30,  1898. 

Respectfully  referred  to  Col.  S.  B.  M.  Young,  Third  Cavalry, 
Washington,  D.  C.,  inviting  attention  to  the  recommendation  of 
the  Judge  Advocate  General,  endorsed  hereon,  which  is  concurred 
in  by  the  Assistant  Secretary  of  War. 

Captain  Armes'  letters  of  March  n  and  23,  and  a  copy  of  one 
from  him  of  March  26,  1898,  are  enclosed  herewith. 

THEO.  SCHWAN, 
Asst.  Adjutant-General. 


735 

(Tenth  Endorsement.) 

Washington,  D.  C,  April  5,  1898. 

Respectfully  returned  to  the  Adjutant-General  of  the  Army, 
with  all  the  papers  in  this  case,  together  with  charges  and  specifi- 
cations preferred  against  Capt.  George  A.  Armes,  U.  S.  Army 
(Retired). 

S.  B.  M.  YOUNG, 

Col.  Third  Cavalry. 

(Eleventh  Endorsement.) 
Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  April  8,  1898. 

Respectfully   referred   to   the  Judge  Advocate  General,  U.  S. 
Army,  for  his  remark  or  recommendation  respecting  the  charges 
preferred  against  Captain  Armes  by  Colonel  Young,  herewith. 
By  order  of  the  Secretary  of  Wrar. 

THEO.  SCHWAN, 
Asst.  Adjutant-General. 

(Twelfth  Endorsement.) 
War  Department,  Judge  Advocate  General's  Office, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  April  9,  1898. 
Respectfully  returned  to  the  Adjutant-General. 
The  first  specification  alleges  that  Thornton's  affidavit  was  "in 
all  material  averments"  false.  I  do  not  think  that  this  is  definite 
enough.  The  specifications  should  indicate  which  particular 
averments  are  false.  It  is  not  necessary,  however,  to  set  forth  the 
affidavit  in  full,  and  then  repeat  those  parts  of  it  which  are  alleged 
to  be  false.  It  would  be  sufficient  to  set  forth  the  latter.  This  is 
also  true  of  the  second  specification.  Both  of  these  specifications 
should  contain  averments  to  the  effect  that  Captain  Armes  knew 
the  statements  to  be  false.  Specifications  might  also  be  preferred 
charging  him  with  officially  making  use  of  false  affidavits,  know- 
ing them  to  be  false.  But  it  is  a  question  whether  it  would  be  best 
to  open  up  all  this  inquiry.  I  seriously  doubt  it. 

The  third,  fourth  and  fifth  specifications  are  properly  drawn. 

G.  NORMAN  LIEBER, 

Judge  Advocate  General. 

(Thirteenth  Endorsement.) 
Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  April  12,  1898. 

Respectfully  returned  to  Col.  S.  B.  M.  Young,  Third  Cavalry, 
for  amendment  of  the  charges  as  suggested  by  the  Judge  Advocate 
General  in  his  preceding  endorsement  hereon.  The  papers  per- 
taining thereto  are  enclosed  herewith. 

By  order  of  the  Assistant  Secretary  of  War. 

THEO.  SCHWAN, 
Asst.  Adjutant-General. 


736 

(Fourteenth  Endorsement.) 

Fort  Ethan  Allen,  Vt.,  April  16,  1898. 

Respectfully  returned  to  the  Adjutant-General  of  the  Army. 
It  is  requested  that  the  Law  Department  frame  these  charges 
and  specifications  against  Captain  Armes  (for  my  signature). 

The  requirements  of  good  discipline  and  Army  Regulations,  4, 
1895,  demand  that  Captain  Armes  be  brought  to  trial  at  the  earliest 
date  practicable. 

S.  B.  M.  YOUNG, 

Col.  Third  Cav. 

(Fifteenth  Endorsement.) 
Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  D.  C,  April  18,  1898. 

Respectfully  returned  to  the  Judge  Advocate  General  of  the 
Army,  who    will    revise,  or    prepare,  charges  and  specifications 
against  Captain  Armes,  as  requested  by  Colonel  Young. 
By  order  of  the  Secretary  of  War. 

THEO.  SCHWAN, 
Asst.  Adjutant-General. 

(Sixteenth  Endorsement.) 
War  Department,  Judge  Advocate  General's  Office, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  April  20,  1898. 

Respectfully  returned  to  the  Judge  Advocate  General  with 
amended  charges,  the  only  amendment  being  the  omission  of  the 
first  and  second  specifications.  See  my  former  endorsement  here- 
on  of  April  9. 

G.  NORMAN  LIEBER, 

Judge  Advocate  General. 

(Seventeenth  Endorsement.) 
Adjutant-General's  Office, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  April  21,  1898. 

Respectfully  returned  to  Col.  S.  B.  M.  Young,  Third  Cavalry, 
Chickamauga  National  Park,  Ga.,  for  signature  to  amended 
charges  and  specifications. 

THEO.  SCHWAN, 
Asst.  Adjutant-General. 

(Eighteenth  Endorsement.) 
In  the  Field,  Headquarters  Third  Cavalry,  Camp  Geo.  H.  Thomas, 

Chickamauga  Park,  Ga.,  April  24,  1898. 

Respectfully  returned  to  the  Adjutant-General,  U.  S.  A.,  en- 
closed charges. 

S.  B.  M.  YOUNG, 
Col.  Third  Cav.,  Commanding. 


737 

General  Miles  ignores  the  Board  and  concurs  in  Gen.  Hancock's 
recommendation. 

(Nineteenth  Endorsement.) 
Headquarters   of  the   Army, 

Washington,  D.  C.,  December  27,  1898. 
Respectfully  returned  to  the  Secretary  of  War. 
These  papers  have  been  before  me,  as  wt\l  as  my  predecessor, 
on  several  occasions.   I  would  state  that  I  have  so  much  confidence 
in,  and  respect  for,  General  Hancock's  opinion,  and  his  superior 
judgment  in  all  matters  of  this  nature,  that  if  there  is  no  clear  and 
sufficient  reason  to  the  contrary,  I  have  no  hesitation  in  concur- 
ring in  his  recommendation  herewith  relative  to  Captain  Armes. 

NELSON  A.  MILES, 

Major-General  Commanding. 

Notwithstanding-  the  filing  of  these  charges  I  was  never 
brought  to  trial  on  them,  as  it  was  well  known  they  could  not  be 
made  to  stick,  and  a  trial  must  result  in  my  vindication. 


17 


CHAPTER  XXXVII. 

December  31,   1899. 

On  the  morning  of  January  I  I  dressed  in  full  uniform,  met 
General  Miles,  commanding  the  Army,  at  the  War  Department, 
and  after  congratulating  him,  marched  with  other  officers  of  the 
Army  to  the  President's  house,  where  we  shook  hands  with  the 
President  and  the  Cabinet  ladies  assembled,  meeting  many 
friends  as  usual.  Afterwards  I  made  calls  on  Cabinet  and  citizen 
friends. 

During  the  past  year  the  most  of  my  time  has  been  occupied 
by  trying  to  induce  the  Secretary  of  War  and  the  President  to 
undo  the  wrongs  that  had  been  heaped  upon  me  for  years  at  the 
War  Department  by  statements  manufactured  from  dishonest 
sources.  So  far  I  have  been  unable  to  get  a  proper  investigation. 
Several  men  who  have  made  false  representations  and  maligned 
my  record,  deceiving  those  in  authority  who  employed  them  to 
investigate  the  facts  of  my  case  in  relation  to  my  military  record, 
have  been  rewarded  by  promotion  to  higher  and  more  respon- 
sible positions  in  the  Army.  Among  those  who  have  been  re- 
warded are  Col.  S.  B.  M.  Young,  who  was  promoted  Major-Gen- 
eral ;  Lieutenant  Duvall,  promoted  Lieutenant-Colonel ;  Major 
Garlington,  a  Lieutenant-Colonel;  James  A.  Wade,  Major-Gen- 
eral in  the  Volunteer  Army,  and  J.  W.  Clous,  a  Brigadier-Gen- 
eral. I  am  confident  that  a  careful  investigation  of  the  facts  and 
charges  I  presented  against  those  individuals  will  prove  them 
unfit  to  hold  any  position  of  trust  and  a  disgrace  to  the  Army. 
Among  the  members  and  Senators  who  have  taken  a  personal 
interest  in  going  with  me  in  person  to  the  President,  Secretary 
of  War  and  others  are  Senator  John  WT.  Daniel  of  Virginia,  Sen- 
ator Thurston  of  Nebraska,  General  Grosvenor  of  Ohio,  Hon. 
E.  R.  Ridgley  of  Kansas,  General  Brady  of  Petersburg,  Hon.  R. 
W7ise  of  Virginia. 

I  have  also  been  engaged  in  overhauling  my  records  and  cor- 
respondence, condensing  the  same,  with  many  original  letters 
and  extracts  for  the  purposes  of  this  book  in  order  that  the  pub- 
lic may  have  an  opportunity  of  reading  what  has  taken  place  in 
connection  with  mv  movements  from  1861  to  date. 


739 
The  documents  for  the  current  year  follow  chronologically : 

Washington,  D.  C.,  March  26,  1899. 
To  the  Hon.  Secretary  of  War, 

(Through" the  Adjutant-General,  U.  S.  A.): 

Sir — Judging  from  the  report  of  Maj.  E.  A.  Garlington,  Assist- 
ant Inspector-General,  who  was  ordered  to  investigate  the  Duvall 
case,  I  should  think  fair-minded  men  could  readily  see  the  preju- 
dice cropping  out  of  this  report  against  me,  and  that  Major  Gar- 
lington has  taken  advantage  of  his  position  to  conspire  with  said 
Duvall  to  make  it  appear  that  I  was  guilty  of  some  military  offense 
justifying  a  court-martial. 

I,  therefore,  request  that  the  proceedings  in  the  matter  may  be 
referred  to  the  Judge  Advocate  General  for  a  careful  and  thor- 
ough investigation,  together  with  authority  and  instructions  to 
prefer  charges  against  Major  Garlington  and  Lieutenant  Duvall 
for  conduct  unbecoming  an  officer  and  a  gentleman,  and  for  vio- 
lation of  Army  Regulations  and  specified  Articles  of  War.  and  on 
such  other  charges  as,  in  the  judgment  of  the  Judge  Advocate 
General,  the  good  of  the  service  may  demand. 

It  will  be  noticed  that  Major  Garlington  was  in  a  position  where 
he  was  free  to  do — and  was  supposed  to — his  duty  without  favor- 
itism, reporting  the  true  facts  and  actual  condition  of  the  case. 
But  instead  of  that,  this  narrow-minded,  narrow-gauged  officer 
has  allowed  his  prejudices  and  his  feelings  to  warp  his  judgment 
and  to  lead  him  into  a  cowardly  attack  upon  my  military  record. 
If  such  feeble  men  are  to  be  entrusted  with  an  officer's  character 
and  war  record,  then  it  is  high  time  that  the  office  of  Inspector- 
General  of  the  Army  were  abolished.  The  reputation  and  charac- 
ter of  no  man  in  the  Army  is  safe  if  secret  reports  and  misrepresen- 
tations can  be  made  by  these  understrappers  to  superior  officers, 
who  have  not  the  time  to  look  into  the  details  of  many  of  the  cases, 
and  must  take  for  granted,  usually,  that  the  reports  are  correct  and 
true.  To  affirm  or  sanction  a  report  such  as  Major  Garlington 
has  made  in  this  case  is  to  establish  a  dangerous  precedent  and  give 
full  faith  and  credit  to  a  report  that  should  be  thrown  into  the  waste- 
basket.  As  a  heavy  taxpayer,  I  do  not  believe  that  money  should 
be  appropriated  to  retain  such  officers  in  positions. 

I  shall  never  believe  that  the  War  Department  can  be  used  by 
such  petty  subordinates  of  the  Army  as  Major  Garlington  and 
Lieutenant  Duvall,  neither  of  whom  ever  saw  a  day's  service  in 
the  field  during  the  late  war,  to  assist  them  in  a  mean  and  cowardly 
attempt  to  crush  an  officer  whose  gallant  and  meritorious  services 
on  the  field  of  battle  have;  on  many  occasions,  won  the  admira- 
tion and  applause  of  such  distinguished  commanders  as  Meade 
and  Hancock. 


740 

As  far  as  Colonel  Young,  Major  Lebo  and  Major  Conrad  are 
concerned,  I  have  only  to  observe  that  they  are  three  very  weak 
men,  and  can  be  easily  used  by  such  schemers  as  Garlington  and 
Duvall,  who  have  been  educated  at  the  Government's  expense, 
and  would  naturally  have  considerable  interest  in  controlling  such 
men  as  the  Board  was  lately  composed  of  in  the  investigation  of 
my  case.  Because  a  man  is  educated  and  is  bright  and  intelligent 
it  does  not  necessarily  follow  that  he  is  honest.  No  doubt  many 
are  in  prisons  today  who  are  highly  accomplished,  educated  and 
gentlemanly  men  in  appearance. 

Since  the  honorable  record  of  a  true  soldier  is  more  prized  by 
him  than  his  life,  all  true  men  of  honor  will  expect  me  to  stop  at  no 
risk,  no  peril,  in  defending,  in  time  of  peace,  what  I  gained  on  the 
battlefield,  when  my  sniveling  accusers  were  wearing  marble-but- 
toned roundabouts  in  the  awkward  squad. 

1  believe  that  the  propriety  of  my  request,  that  the  Judge  Advo- 
cate General  be  authorized  and  directed  to  carefully  investigate  the 
proceedings  in  this  case,  will  be  readily  recognized  by  the  Depart- 
ment. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  sir,  your  obedient  servant, 

(Signed)         GEO.  A.  ARMKS, 

Capt.,  U.  S.  A.  (Ret'd). 

Lynchburg,  Va.,  July  24,  1899. 
Col.  George  A.  Armes : 

Dear  Colonel — I  enclose  the  letter  which  I  addressed  to  the 
President  respecting  the  application  of  Messrs.  Greenwood,  Man- 
nion  &  Co.  for  railroad  franchise  in  Cuba,  as  requested  by  you. 

I  was  glad  to  show  you  and  your  friend  any  courtesy  or  accom- 
modation in  my  power. 

Please  give  me  the  full  address  of  General  Greenwood. 
Yours,  very  truly, 

TNO.  W.  DANIEL. 

Omaha,  Neb.,  September  23,  1899. 
George  W.  Armes, 

United  States  Army, 

Washington,  D.  C. : 

My  Dear  Sir — In  the  case  of  Mark  M.  Coad,  arising  out  of  the 
Indian  depredation  committed  on  the  I9th  of  January,  1867,  a 
claim  for  the  same  which  was  made  out  and  affidavits  made  imme- 
diately after  the  time  of  the  raid,  the  Court  of  Claims  have  seen  fit 
to  reject  all  of  this  class  of  testimony,  and  has  compelled  us  to 
look  up  the  witnesses  and  take  depositions.  I  find  this  to  be  a 
very  difficult  matter  from  the  fact  that  witnesses  are  scattered  all 
over  the  country,  and  a  great  many  are  dead.  However,  I  have 
succeeded  in  tracing  a  few  of  these  men  and  taken  their  deposi- 


74* 

lions.  In  our  depositions  your  name  is  mentioned  very  frequently. 
I  do  not  suppose  that  you  now  remember  very  many  of  the  details 
which  took  place  at  that  time.  One  reason  why  it  is  necessary  to 
have  your  deposition  in  this  case  is  to  verify  the  accounts  given  in 
the  other  depositions,  namely,  *  *  * 

I  would  like  to  hear  from  you  and  to  know  how  you  are  getting 
along,  i  may  go  down  to  Washington  during  the  winter  or  next 
spring,  and  if  so  I  will  call  and  see  you. 

Very  respectfully, 

JOHN  F.  COAD. 

The  letters  herewith  are  from  two  of  the  men  in  my  old  com- 
mand, the  Second  Cavalry,  and  show  in  what  esteem  I  was  held 
by  the  men  in  the  ranks  who  participated  with  me  in  some  of  the 
severest  campaigning  ever  known  to  the  Army : 

Maiden,  Mass.,  October  i,  1899. 
Maj.  Geo.  A.  Armes: 

Dear  Sir — Your  letter  of  the  7th  of  September  received,  and  I 
should  have  replied  before  had  I  not  been  so  busy  since  my  vaca- 
tion. In  regard  to  the  Pumpkin  Creek  fight,  I  don't  think  I  can 
give  you  much  more  information  than  you  have,  but  I  can  give  you 
the  name  of  the  comrade  who  was  shot  in  the  shoulder.  His  name 
was  Moore,  a  private.  The  boys  called  him  "Reddy"  More,  if  I 
remember  aright.  The  arrow  was  bedded  in  to  the  shoulder-blade ; 
had  notches  in  it  so  that  it  could  not  be  removed,  and  he  was  sent 
on  to  the  States  to  have  it  taken  out,  and  never  came  back  to  the 
company  again.  There  was  one  Indian  captured  and  brought  to 
Fort  Sedgwick,  and  escaped  from  the  old  stable,  when  he  ran  for 
the  river,  and  somehow  got  away.  I  think  Corporal  or  Sergeant 
Close  relieved  the  guard  to  go  to  dinner.  If  you  write  to  Comrade 
Joe  Buckholtz,  Smithfield,  Ohio,  I  think  that  he  can  give  you  val- 
uable information,  as  he  wrote  me  once  that  he  had  some  records 
of  our  service  taken  at  the  time. 

Sergeant  Oscar  Close,  Corporal  Chas.  H.  Haynes,  Privates 
Michael  Connell,  Wm.  Floyd,  Wm.  Humphries  and  Michael  Haley 
were  with  Lieutenant  Lyman  S.  Kidder's  party  who  were  killed 
by  the  Indians  on  Beaver  Creek  about  the  1st  of  July,  1867,  while 
carrying  dispatches  to  General  Custer,  who  was  at  that  time  along 
the  Republican.  Kidder  had  with  him  ten  men  and  an  Indian 
guide.  I  have  a  list  of  the  names  sent  me  from  Washington  of 
the  entire  party.  The  five  that  I  have  given  you  are  the  only  ones 
that  were  with  us  at  that  time.  The  official  report  of  the  time  so 
many  were  frostbitten  is  that  we  left  Fort  Sedgwick  January  22, 
1867,  and  returned  January  26;  two  officers,  thirty-seven  enlisted 
men,  five  citizens ;  country  passed  through,  Lodgepole  Valley ; 
tribe  operated  against,  Cheyenne;  captured  sixty-seven  head  of 


742 

cattle  and  one  pony;  twenty-seven  men  frostbitten ;  one  man  who 
after  had  feet  taken  off  resides  in  New  Hampshire ;  his  address  is 
Frank  B.  Flanders,  Goffstown,  N.  H. 

The  report  also  says  that  Lieutenant  Jenness,  Twenty-seventh 
Infantry,  since  killed  at  Phil  Kearney,  was  along-  with  us. 

The  party  was  in  command  of  Second  Lieut.  G.  A.  Armes. 
Lieutenant  Hamilton  was  along.  I  think  Hamilton  was  killed  in 
the  Spanish  war,  a  Lieutenant-Colonel. 

In  the  report  they  have  the  distance  we  traveled  on  this  trip  249 
miles,  and  I  think  you  deserved  great  credit  for  \\orking  as  you  did 
in  keeping  the  boys  from  freezing  to  death,  in  making  us  walk- 
when  that  drowsy  feeling  would  come  over  us. 

If  this  information  will  be  of  any  service  to  you  I  am  glad  to 
give  it.  If  I  can  do  anything  more  I  will  cheerfully  do  it. 

Yours  truly, 

ALBION  H.  DROUN, 
18  Garland  avenue,  Maiden,  Mass. 

Smithfield,  Ohio,  November  19,  1899. 
Mai.  George  A.  Armes, 
U.  S.  A,, 

Washington,  D.  C. : 

Dear  Sir — Through  the  kindness  of  my  friend,  John  Burnside, 
I  am  enabled  to  communicate  with  you.  I  had  heard  through 
Comrade  Droun  that  you  were  living  in  Washington,  or  had  lived 
there  some  years  ago,  and  when  Burnside  was  here  last  week  I 
asked  him  to  look  you  up  if  you  were  still  in  Washington.  I 
thought  that,  situated  as  you  were,  and  having  personal  knowledge 
of  me,  you  might  aid  me  in  getting  my  pension  increased. 

I  have  been  drawing  $12  per  month  for  general  disability  since 
the  dependent  bill  was  passed,  but  about  two  years  ago  I  placed  my 
application  for  increase  as  an  original  applicant,  and  based  by  dis- 
ability on  a  severe  freezing  that  I  got  on  that  memorable  trip  in 
January  of  1867,  of  which  you  were  in  command.  I  was  examined 
a  year  ago  last  September.  About  three  months  ago  I  furnished 
a  history  of  my  whereabouts,  and  the  work  that  I  have  been  doing 
since  I  left  the  service.  I  am  confined  now  to  a  wheel-chair,  and 
have  been  off  my  feet  since  May,  1891. 

Dear  sir,  I  am  glad  that  I  got  on  your  trail.  I  was  not  trailing, 
but  just  crossed  it,  so  to  speak,  and  hope  that  you  may  aid  me  in 
getting  what  I  want.  I  don't  ask  you  to  go  out  of  your  way  to  do 
this,  and  I  hope  you  will  do  it  for  the  sake  of  Auld  Lang  Syne,  and 
because  it  is  in  your  heart  to  do  the  favor,  and  I'll  place  it  on  record 
beside  that  other  favor  you  did  me  long  ago,  when  you  loaned  me 
your  overshoes — a  thing  that  don't  happen  very  often  in  the  reg- 
ular Army. 


743 

Hoping  that  you  are  well,  and  enjoying  life  and  the  good  things 
of  this  life,  I  remain, 

Yours  truly, 

JOS.  A.  BUCKHOLTZ. 

P.  b.— While  a  member  of  M  Company  of  the  Second  I  kept  a 
diary  for  nearly  the  whole  three  years,  and  if  it  will  interest  you  to 
read  it,  or  that  part  which  pertains  to  that  January  trip,  I  will  send 
you  a  copy  of  it. 

J.  A.  B. 


Jos.  A.  BUCKHOLTZ. 


ALBION  H.  DROTTN. 


Among  my  supporters  .and  defenders  was  Col.  Thomas  P. 
Ochiltree,  a  gentleman  who  has  been  dined  and  wined  abroad 
more  than  any  other  American  that  has  ever  visited  Europe,  and 
deservedly  so,  which  is  substantiated  by  the  following  extracts 
from  official  records  from  the  War  Department  and  an  account 
of  his  life  written  by  Gen.  Marcus  J.  Wright : 

"When  a  mere  boy  Colonel  Ochiltree  volunteered  in  Walker's 
company  of  Texas  Rangers,  and  was  engaged  in  the  campaign  on 
the  Mexican  frontier  against  the  Apache  and  Commanche  In- 
dians. *  *  *  Afterwards  enlisted  in  a  Texas  battalion  under  Col- 
onel Wigfall,  subsequently  the  First  Texas  Infantry.  *  *  *  When 


744 


feM  ™  y  WaS  disPatched  by  President  Davis  for  the  conquest 
of  New  Mexico  Colonel  Ochiltree  became  a  member  of  hi  s  aff 
and  distinguished  himself  in  the  New  Mexican  campaiga  He 
battle  ar  °  R -T  L°Y8'StTrTeet'  Participating  in  the  Seven  Days' 
sf, 1  .f0^. Richmond.  He  was  advanced  as  Chief  of  General 
Sib  ley  s  staff  m  the  Army  ot  Southwest  Louisiana,  participating 
in  all  engagements  of  that  command.  He  served  as  Assistant  Ad^ 
Jutant-General  to  Gen.  Dick  Taylor  in  the  briulant  canoa  gn^ ; 
winch  Brashear  City  was  captured,  and  assigned  as  Assistant  A 
jutant-General  to  Gen.  S.  B.  Maxey,  Department  Indian  Tertorv 
taking  an  active  part  in  the  battle  at  Poison  Springs,  Ark  He  also 

monTCH   SerV1Ce  lmder,Ge"eraI  R«ns  in 'the  "defense  of  R 
mond.     He  was  wounded  and  captured  at  the  battle  of  Sailors' 
Creek,  the  last  pitched  battle  of  the  Army  of  Northern  Vienna 

' 


Of     f-  r*  i     •  i  J  -'J.mV'ij.i       Vllirllllcl 

505  confined  in  the  Old  Capitol  Prison  in  Washington  Tn 
-  he  became  editor  of  the  Houston  Daih  Telegraphing 
he  was  sent  to  Lurope  to  represent  the  merchants  of  Galveston  to 
secure  the  establishment  of  a  steamship  line  to  that  point  in  which 
imrinnW  T  T2  ho  V'S,'ted  Eur°Pe  as  Commissioner  of  Em- 

shfl3  b     P      v      %    "  l873  lle  Was  aPPO'"ted  United  States  Mar- 

SSt£SS^i±St^to^^-£ 

':  .        *  *  *  *  *  *  >:c  * 

in  Europe  during  his  sojourn  he  was  received  with  great 
Vi'tn:CH±de"  f?  ^adl°^-d  J°hn  B^t  in  Lg- 


an     a   dvirtH  T  one  an      on     rgt  in     ng- 

Kaun,borolr      r     'g°  and  ^fayette  in  France,  and  Lasker  and 

as  the  nnthor    f  V,ernTaniV-    ^  ^S  a'S°  ^^  know"  f"  civil  life 
e  author  of  the  Lasker  resolutions." 

EXTRACTS  FROM  THE  REBELLION  RECORDS. 

to  Mav  1    S   '4T*  °*°F*?*™*  ^  New  Mexico,  January 

te  I  beg  m  conclusion  to  bring-  to  your 

"  ' 


o  the  members  of  ^  staff 

Ochiltree,  aide-de-camp  " 


Report  of  Capt.  T.  T.  Teel,  Stiltey:   "*  *  *  Lieutenint  Ochil 

-"  t0  the  ^eTndS; 


f  t0  Gen'  H'  H-  Siblc-v'  Richmond,  June  7,  186- 

spedv  and  diV  ^  °PP°rt"n,it-V  °f  communicating  will/you  in 
-dy  -and  d.rect  manner  through  your  aide-de-camp/*  *  * 

Sthis  will  bo?         '    "S  --°U  °f  °"r  condition  in  this  region, 
s  will  be  to  you  a  sufficient  explanation  for  failure  to  rein 
force  you  to  the  full  extent  of  your  necessity.  *  *  *" 


it 


746 

In  perusing  these  pages  the  reader  can  see  that  my  opportuni- 
ties for  learning  the  motives  of  human  actions  in  public  affairs 
have  been  abundant.  He  will  recall  that  I  have  been  accustomed 
to  take  part  in  the  discussion  of  national  issues  as  every  four  years 
they  are  made  up  for  the  consideration  of  the  voter.  He  will  re- 
member that,  having  been  cradled  within  an  atmosphere  wafted 
from  Mount  Vernon,  I  was  proof  against  the  seductive  political 
heresies  which  swept  my  neighbors,  even  Lee,  the  veteran  soldier 
of  Arlington,  into  the  seething  waters  of  rebellion. 

I  am  no  pessimist.  I  believe  in  that  product  known  as  the 
American.  I  believe  our  national  life  to  be  onward  and  upward, 
with  an  occasional  halt,  possibly.  The  political  atmosphere  may 
become  dark  and  murky,  but  a  glorious  sunburst  is  sure  to  fol- 
low. The  more  portentious  the  cloud  the  brighter  the  light  that 
ensues,  as  one  of  General  Pinner's  letters  to  me  proves.  When 
the  people  become  quiescent  through  ease  and  comfort  corrupt 
influences  have  full  play  in  public  affairs.  Then  the  people  wake 
up  and  set  matters  right  for  a  new  start  in  the  direction  of  the 
general  welfare  and  individual  liberty.  Should  we  not  therefore 
strive  in  time  and  while  our  institutions  are  still  intact  to  find  and 
put  in  force  a  safeguard  against  the  day  of  peril  ? 

I  propose  as  my  contribution  to  this  end  and  as  a  remedy  for 
the  many  evils  already  in  play  a  constitutional  amendment  limit- 
ing the  tenure  of  the  Presidency  to  a  single  term,  the  incumbent 
to  be  eligible  for  election  to  the  same  orifice  only  after  the  lapse  of 
two  intervening  full  terms.  The  reasons  for  this  are  too  many  for 
me  to  undertake  an  exposition  of  them  in  a  work  of  this  kind,  ex- 
cept briefly. 

I  specially  call  attention  of  the  reader  to  the  neglect  of  many 
officials  who  have  complaints  and  serious  questions  to  decide 
affecting  the  past  or  future  of  a  person's  character,  record  and 
standing,  financially  and  otherwise,  who  often  refer  the  examina- 
tion of  such  matters  to  unreliable  and  incompetent  subordinates, 
approving  such  reports,  whether  the  findings  are  founded  on  fact 
or  not  and  whether  they  be  just. 

In  many  cases  the  seeker  of  justice  is  led  to  believe  that  prompt 
action  will  be  given,  causing  the  victim  to  live  in  hopes  of  vindi- 
cation. But  he  is  often  driven  to  poverty,  his  whole  future  career 
ruined,  and  finally  becomes  desperate. 


747 

If  it  is  not  the  intention  to  honestly  investigate  these  cases  cer- 
tainly deception  should  not  be  practiced,  and  thus  bring  ruin  and 
desolation,  not  only  upon  the  party  seeking  redress,  but  also 
upon  innocent  women  and  children  because  of  the  lack  of  frank, 
candid  and  honest  action. 

Whatever  of  criticism  appears  in  these  pages  is  not  from  me  as 
an  officer  of  the  Army,  but  solely  in  my  relation  as  a  citizen  of  the 
United  States,  and  is  made  in  the  interest  of  the  public  service.  I 
may  say  also  that  it  is  without  malice. 

T  feel  that  the  country  should  know  of  the  many  persecutions 
which  those  officers  who  incur  the  displeasure  of  superiors  are 
subjected  to,  especially  where  trivial  charges  are  made  against 
them  and  trials  had  who'se  end  and  aim  is  their  dismissal. 

The  trouble  lies  in  the  fact  that  there  is  no  appeal  from  the 
conclusions  of  a  military  court.  If  a  board  of  review  consisting 
of  eminent  civilian  attorneys  versed  in  military  law  were  ap- 
pointed by  Congress  to  go  over  all  the  details  of  trials  before  the 
President  was  called  on  to  approve  the  sentence  or  proceedings 
the  constantly  recurring  effort  with  Congress  for  redress  of  of- 
ficers dismissed  would  cease  and  the  Army  benefited  beyond  cal- 
culation. Many  cases  come  to  me  now  where,  if  this  had  been 
done,  justice  would  have  been  secured,  and  one,  that  of  Maj. 
Andrew  Geddes,  would  have  resulted  quite  differently,  as  has 
been  demonstrated  by  the  thorough  investigation  given  it  by 
various  Congressional  committees,  which  have  proven  that  he 
has  been  one  of  the  best  officers  in  the  Army,  a  gentleman  above 
reproach. 

From  the  date  of  entry  in  active  service  as  a  Lieutenant  the 
youngster  begins  a  systematic  effort  to  secure  promotion  or  as- 
signment to  duty  other  than  in  garrison,  where  increased  pay 
and  emoluments  ensue.  Political  influence  is  enlisted,  and  regu- 
lar siege  laid  upon  Senators  and  Congresmen  by  women  to  set 
them  upon  the  President  and  War  Department.  These  pages 
show  so  much  of  what  is  here  spoken  of  that  it  is  not  necessary 
to  go  into  further  detail. 

The  too-frequent  excuse  one  hears  among  officials  that  they 
have  no  time  to  properly  discharge  the  duties  they  were  ap- 
pointed to  perform  would  no  longer  be  heard  if  less  time  was 
spent  lunching  and  wining  with  the  professional  politicians  who 
infest  the  capital. 


743 

The  remedy  for  this  condition  is  to  enforce  the  law  as  it  is 
today,  which  forbids  such  action  on  the  part  of  officers,  and  thus 
give  promotion  and  detail  in  accord  with  merit  rather  than  favor- 
itism. 

Here  1  may  end  the  record  of  a  busy  life  that  has  not  been 
without  its  bright  side,  notwithstanding  the  efforts  of  enemies  to 
make  it  a  wreck.  My  personal  acquaintance  and  contact  with 
many  of  the  great  characters  of  our  nation's  history,  their  tested 
and  proven  friendship  under  trying  circumstances,  their  faith  in 
my  honor  and  integrity,  all  tend  to  make  me  thankful  to  Almighty 
God  that  I  have  lived  in  this  age  and  have  performed  my  allotted, 
if  humble,  part  in  the  stirring  events  that  adorn  the  historic  an- 
nals of  our  country. 

And  now,  in  conclusion,  I  may  be  pardoned  if  I  set  forth 
plainly  the  fact  that  in  my  whole  military  career  I  have  never 
been  reprimanded  by  superiors  for  remissness  in  the  performance 
of  duty  ;  that  in  no  case  has  there  ever  been  a  report  against  me  by 
an  Inspector-General  for  neglect  of  duty  in  any  particular ;  that  I 
always  promptly  executed  any  order  that  I  received  from  proper 
authority ;  that  I  always  comported  myself  as  a  gentleman,  of 
which  there  is  plenty  of  evidence  in  these  pages  ;  that  I  have  been 
the  victim  of  malign  influence  and  petty  persecutions  of  a  very 
large  number  of  personages,  from  the  exalted  Secretary  of  Wai- 
down  to  the  scrub  Lieutenant ;  that  I  have  lived  an  honorable  life 
and  deserved  the  highest  esteem  of  those  who  know  me  best ;  that 
most  of  those  who  have  followed  me  so  relentlessly  have  met  with 
the  punishment  meted  out  to  criminals  and  evil-doers  generally ; 
that  my  oldest  friends  are  my  best  ones,  still  stand  by  me,  and  have 
never  regretted  that  they  have  done  so,  and  that  I  am  still  here 
respected  by  my  fellows,  a  man  among  men,  ready  to  serve  my 
countrv  whenever  dutv  calls  me. 


Among  the  social  events  of  the  year  1899  of  more  than  ordinary 
moment,  was  the  marriage  on  Dec.  28,  of  Miss  Jane  Faulkner, 
daughter  of  Hon.  Chas.  J.  Faulkner,  to  Dr.  William  White,  of 
Nashville,  Tennessse,  at  the  family  residence  in  Boydsville,  Mar- 
tin sburg,  West  Va.  The  ceremony  was  performed  by  Rev.  F.  M. 
Woods,  D.  D.,  assisted  by  Rev.  T.  DeWitt  Talmadge,  in  the 
presence  of  a  very  large  number  of  guests  and  a  bevy  of  beautiful 
bridesmaids. 

They  were  Miss  Sallie  Faulkner,  Miss  Mary  Wills,  niece  of  Gov- 
ernor Kellogg,  Miss  Maude  Talmadge,  daughter  of  Rev.  Dr. 
Talmadge.  Miss  Kitty  Reed,  daughter  of  the  Speaker  of  the  House 
of  Representatives,  Miss  Mary  Paxton,  daughter  of  the  Reverend 
Dr.  Paxton,  of  New  York,  Miss  Mary  Warner,  daughter  of  B.  H. 
Warner,  Miss  Alice  Gary  Burdette,  daughter  of  Walter  W.  Bur- 
dette,  one  of  our  leading  merchants,  now  retired. 

After  the  festivities  were  over,  the  happy  couple  departed  on  an 
extende'd  tour,  and  finally  arrived  at  Nashville,  where  they  con- 
tinue to  reside. 

This  wedding  was,  undoubtedly,  the  finest  ever  celebrated  in 
West  Virginia.  The  large  number  of  distinguished  guests  present ; 
the  great  beauty  of  the  bride  and  her  attendants  ;  the  elegance  of 
all  the  appointments  ;  the  magnificence  of  the  collation,  all  con- 
tributed to  make  it  the  most  notable  of  similar  festal  occasions  ever 
witnessed  in  the  State. 


Secretary  of  War  Asking  Advice. 

Being  shrewd,  diplomatic  and  from  Ohio,  he  has  worked  himself 
into  the  confidence  of  the  many  public  officials  and  is  now  a  Major 
General,  a  position  of  great  honor.  It  is  very  interesting  to  be  in 
his  office  and  see  the  Secretary  of  War  stand  waiting  for  advice  on 
how  to  proceed  in  official  matters  Gen.  Miles  is  not  "in  it"  at  all 
as  it  appears;  in  fact,  it  would  hardly  be  known  that  we  had  a 
General  of  the  Army  ;  but  General  Corbin,  with  his  Secretary,  the 
Secretary  of  War,  has  so  well  pleased  the  President  that  it  is  con- 
sidered unnecessary  to  consult  with  the  General  of  the  Army  in  re- 
gard to  the  disposition  and  movement  of  troops.  In  one  of  my 
communications  to  General  Corbin,  I  reminded  him  that  if  he 
would  make  it  a  point  to  be  straightforward  and  honest  in  his  deal- 
ings he  is  destined  to  be  a  great  man. 

With  the  combination  of  a  President  who  claims  the  confidence 
of  the  religious  element  and  an  Adjutant  General  representing  the 
precisely  opposite  element,  working  in  harmony,  what  wonder  the 
war  with  Spain  was  short,  sharp  and  decisive.  With  numerous 
sons  and  nephews  of  prospective  delegates  and  other  politicians 
unprovided  for,  there  is  no  reason  to  doubt  that  this  gallant  soldier 
will  becom  the  ranking  officer  of  the  Army. 


QUEKN    LlT.IUOKAI.ANI. 


Col.  PARKER. 


Among  the  friends  who  have  aided  me  by  words  and  acts  of  en- 
couragement in  the  preparation  of  this  volume  are  Colonel  Sam 
Parker  and  Prince  David  Kawanakoa,  of  Hawaii.  Col.  Parker 
is  about  forty-seven  years  old.  He  comes  of  the  old  royal  family 
of  Hawaii ;  was  Prime  Minister  to  Queen  L/Llioukalani,  but  by 
education  and  travel  is  thoroughly  American.  Notwithstanding 
the  fact  that  he  was  a  strong  royalist,  he  is,  by  careful  considera- 
tion of  all  the  conditions,  thoroughly  satisfied  with  the  annexation 
of  Hawaii.  He  is  a  firm  believer  in  the  future  of  the  Islands,  in 
President  Mckinley  and  in  the  Republican  party.  He  was  chair- 
man of  the  first  delegation  from  the  Territory  of  Hawaii  to  a 
National  Republican  convention.  No  man  in  Hawaii  can  compare 
with  him  in  the  popularity  and  love  in  which  he  is  held  by  the 
native  Hawaiians.  He  is  a  man  of  more  than  ordinary  intelli- 
gence ;  the  largest  land  owner  in  the  Islands  and  one  who  inspires 
confidence  wherever  and  whenever  met. 


752 


PRINCE  DAVID,  of  Hawaii. 


Prince  David  is  a  nephew  of  Queen  Liliuokalani.  He  has  never 
taken  any  interest  in  politics  but  at  the  same  time  is  thoroughly 
bound  up  in  the  interests  of  his  people.  He  is  a  close  friend  of 
Col.  Parker,  and  is  a  genuine  good  fellow  and  polished  man  of  the 
world. 


753 


MY  DAUGHTER  ETHEI,  IN  AMATEUR  THEATRICALS. 

Among  the  staunchest  supporters  I  have  had  at  all  times  are 
Senators  C.  K.  Davis,  of  Minnesota,  and  John  W.  Daniel,  of  Va. 

In  season  and  out  these  gentlemen  have  defended  me  from  the 
malicious  attacks  of  my  persecutors,  both  on  the  floor  of  the  Senate 
and  elsewhere  : 


754 


Senator  C.  K.  DAVFS. 


Senator  J~>HN  W.  DANIEL. 


WM.  ST.  JOHN. 


WM.  LYMAN  and  Wife. 


755 

Another  of  my  friends  is  Wm.  St.  John,  who  is  the  representa- 
tive of  the  famous  Pintsch  Gas  Buoy,  now  being  used  by  all  lead- 
ing maritime  nations,  Mr.  St.  John  being  the  pioneer  in  its  intro- 
duction in  the  United  States. 

On  one  of  my  trips  through  the  East  and  North  I  visited  the 
home  of  my  cousin,  Wm.  Lynian,  in  Massachusetts,  whose  por- 
trait with  his  wife  appears  on  the  preceding  page. 


Bureau  of  £efu0ecf,  Jrtedmrn,  and 


garni.*1, 


'4*66. 


\x^   v>J\>-   ^XN^^M—    \\^- 


756 


>* — Cr  s   ^ 

t-O    «^*  ^^-^     &ej£_ 


757 


S^'^X        -Jr 

sT^-Z.g^^- —      ^7 

#•  / 


758 


The  above  letter  from  Gen.  Shafter  shows  that  my  opinion  of 
Gen.  Grierson  coincides  with  that  held  by  the  former. 

This  being  my  first  attempt  at  book-writing,  I  became  so  much 
interested  after  I  begun  with  my  stenographer  and  typewriter  that 
I  had  5,500  pages  in  duplicate  from  my  diary  of  thirty-eight  years 
of  an  accumulated  official  correspondence  and  other  material. 
When  I  arranged  to  have  a  book  of  700  pages  printed,  I  had  to 
eliminate  a  large  portion  of  interesting  matter  on  hand.  In  some 
subsequent  edition  of  this  work  much  of  what  remains  will  be  in- 
cluded. 

It  would  be  to  the  interest  of  the  service  and  the  country  at 
large  to  reorganize  the  Army,  and  to  thoroughly  investigate  the 
War  Department  in  regard  to  Army  matters  during  the  past  twen- 
ty-five years  and  adopt  some  system  where  such  men  as  General 
John  M.  Wilson,  Chief  of  Engineers,  and  many  others  who 
have  performed  their  duty  so  faithfully  and  to  the  interest  and 
credit  of  the  service,  can  be  rewarded  and  have  merit  recognized, 
in  some  way,  without  political  and  social  influence. 

I  believe  the  reader  will  acknowledge  that  I  have  not  ke;>t  back 
any  of  the  news  tending  to  place  me  in  a  bad  light  before  the 
public,  but  in  exposing  the  character  and  animus  of  the  creatures 
who  have  tried  to  ruin  me,  I  may  not  be  the  bad  man  they  have 
sought  to  make  me  appear. 

I  have  many  friends  among  the  diplomats  and  none  whom  I 
value  more  highly  than  Minister  Wu  Ting  Fang,  of  China,  who 
has  demonstrated  that  he  is  of  the  highest  order  in  the  art  of 
diplomacy. 

I  may  be  pardoned  if  I  refer  to  Dr.  E.  C.  Bedloe,  sometime 
consul  at  Amoy,  China,  who  has  been  my  constant  friend,  and 
who  is  one  of  the  most  popular  of  all  our  consuls. 

FINIS, 


INDEX. 


Abercrombie,  Gen.,  65. 

Adams,  A.  W.,  386,  396,  700. 

Adams,  C.  H.,  366. 

Adams,  Lt.,  165. 

Ainsworth,  F.  C.,  10,  663. 

Ainsworth,  S.,  366. 

Albany  Journal,   8. 

Albee,  G.  E.,  12,  278,  282,  283,  285,  298, 

468. 

Albright,  C.,  379,  445. 
Aldrich,  N.  W.,  632. 
Alcorn,  Sen.,  390. 
Alderson,  J.  D.,  657. 
Alexander,  A.,  148. 
Alexander,  C.,    421. 
Alexander,  Prof.,  159. 
Alexandria  Gazette,  41,  149. 
Alexandria  Sentinel,  41. 
Alger,  R.  A.,  692,  694,  700,  718,  723. 
Allen,  Lt.,  255,  263. 
Allen,  T.  E.,  362. 
Alley,  J.  B.,  540. 
Allison,  F.  H.,  171,  174,  189,  196. 
Allison,  W.  B.,  652. 
Allman,  Lt.,  306. 
Almy,  J.,  292. 
Alvord,  H.  S.,  248. 
Alvord,  T.  G.,  359,  366,  718. 
Ames,  — ,  679. 
Amick,  Lt.,  250,  253. 
Anaconda  Standard,  8. 
Anandale,  15,  19,  23,  144. 
Anderson,  A.,  247. 
Anderson,  G.  S.,  598. 
Anderson,  Hon.,  566,  581. 
Anderson,    J.,    249. 
Anderson,  T.  M.,  10,  70,  71. 
Andrews,  G.  L.,  458,  502. 
Angelica,  Sister,  644,  648,  649. 
Anhenser  Brewery,  562. 
Anthony,  H.  B.,  366,  442. 
Apache  Bill,  274,  301. 
Appleman,  A.  R.,  371,  386. 
Appleman,  Mrs.,  615. 
Appomattox,  C.  H.,  141. 
Arapahoes,  312. 
Arlington  Heights,   65,     115,     116,   140, 

142,  226. 
Armes,   Cecily,   522,   548,   566,   577,   613, 

633,  641,  644. 
Armes,  C.  H.,  16,  19,  149,  251,  275,  332, 

472. 
Armes,  Dorothy,  646,  680. 


Armes,  Edith,  646. 

Armes,  Ethel  M.,  522,  613,  631,  633,  641, 

645,  646,  663,  680,  681. 
Armes,  G.  A.,  ancestry,  13;   birth  and 
parentage,    15,    16;    boyhood,    17-24; 
espouses  Union  cause,   26;    calls  on 
Secretary  Seward,  27;   arrest  No.  1, 
29;  arrest  No.  2,  32;  received  by  Mr. 
Seward,    33;    appointed     messenger, 
33;  first  military  duty,  38;  wounded 
at  Fairfax  C.  H.,  47;    arrest  No.   3, 
48;   opens  a  store,  52;   arrest  No.  4, 
53;    wounded,   55;    escapes    amputa- 
tion, 56;  visits  his  mother,  57;   sells 
watermelons,   58;    wounded   at   Wil- 
liamsburg,    59;     runs    a    hotel    and 
stage,  59;  in  the  sutler  business,  61; 
enlists    as    private,   64;    declines  to 
black   boots,    65;    made   a   sergeant, 
65;  made  a  lieutenant,  66;  at  Ports- 
mouth, N.  H.,  72;    arrest  No.  5,  72; 
arrest  No.   6,   75;    arrest  No.   7,   78; 
letters  from  Gov.  Woodbury,  79-80; 
returns    to    Washington,   82;    takes 
dispatches    to    Gen.    Grant,   88;    on 
Gen.  Hancock's  staff,  89;   unhorsed, 
90;  fighting  near  Hanover  C.  H.,  92; 
at  Cold    Harbor,  95;    extracts   from 
.       diary,  97-112;   at  Fort  Stevens,  115; 
at   Elmira     and    Utica,    N.   Y.,    117; 
commissioned  as  captain  in  2d  N.  Y. 
Art.,  118;  at  Hatcher's  Run,  122-126; 
at     Petersburg,    136;    arrest    No.    8, 
137;       court-martialed,      137;      com- 
manding at  Fort  Whipple,  Va.,  142; 
at  the  trial  of  Mrs.  Surratt,  143;  on 
duty  at  Fairfax  C.  H.,   145;    at  the 
"Grand    Union    Tournament,"    147; 
buys  a  farm,  152;   resolves  to  go  to 
the  frontier,  154;  at  Fort  Ellsworth, 
163;  at  Fort  Wallace,  167;  arresting 
Benham,     176;      letter     from     Gen. 
Bates,   178;    at  Fort   Sedgwick,   181; 
attacking    Indians,    186-189;     arrest 
No.  9,  193;  arrest  No.  10,  197;  rescu- 
ing the  woodchoppers,   206;    makes 
report    to    Capt.    Mix,    210;     meets 
Spotted  Tail,  217;    made  captain  in 
10th  Cavalry,  222;  returns  to  Wash- 
ington,  224;    studies    for    examina- 
tion,  225;     passes,    228;    at    Carlisle 
barracks,  229;    at  Ft.  Leavenworth, 
229;  scouting,  231;  at  Ft.  Hays,  235; 


wounded  by  Indians,  239;  fights 
with  Indians,  243;  makes  report  to 
Capt.  Corbin,  245;  arrest  No.  11,  250; 
arrest  No.  12,  253;  court-martialed, 
257;  acquitted,  259;  arrest  No.  13, 
264;  court-martialed,  268;  arrest 
No.  14,  275;  skirmishes  with  Indians, 
270-285;  arrest  No.  15,  282;  at  Ft. 
Lyon,  286;  makes  report  to  Gen.  Mc- 
Keever,  293;  arrest  No.  16,  298;  ar- 
rest No.  17,  306;  prefers  charges 
against  Maj.  Graham,  307;  at  Camp 
Supply,  303-313;  arrest  No.  18,  313; 
at  Ft.  Leavenworth,  318-334;  letter 
to  Col.  Merrill,  319;  court-martialed, 
323;  in  close  confinement,  327;  sen- 
tenced to  dismissal,  333;  returns  to 
Washington,  336;  becomes  real  es- 
tate broker,  336;  efforts  to  be  re- 
stored, 337-350;  buys  Washington 
Transcript,  352;  advocates  Hancock 
for  President,  353;  petitions  for  re- 
storation, 354-358;  at  Saratoga  tour- 
nament, 360-367;  the  duel,  363;  an- 
tagonism of  Belknap,  369;  large  real 
estate  deals,  371;  ready  to  avenge 
Gen.  Ryan,  372;  secures  honorable 
discharge,  377;  letters  of  congratu- 
lation, 378;  his  marriage,  380;  hos- 
tility of  Belknap,  387-389;  real  es- 
tate deals,  390-396;  his  charges 
against  Belknap,  397;  writes  to  him, 
401;  causes  his  resignation,  403; 
complimented  by  the  press,  404; 
Elaine's  attack  of  vertigo,  411; 
works  on  his  case  in  Congress,  412- 
416;  his  bill  passes,  417;  indebted  to 
Watterson,  418;  President  refuses 
to  sign,  419;  efforts  to  reopen  case, 
421-425;  applies  to  Secretary  of 
WTar,  426-428;  bill  for  restoration  in 
Congress,  431;  works  on  his  case, 
435-437;  bill  passes  both  Houses, 
438-449;  visits  Hon.  C.  J.  Faulkner, 
450;  restored  as  captain,  451;  goes 
to  Texas,  452;  arrest  No.  20,  455;  re- 
leased, 458;  scouting,  462-466;  arrest 
No.  21,  467;  hostility  of  "The  Dutch- 
man," 468;  closely  confined,  478; 
sentence  commuted,  479;  at  Ft.  Mc- 
Kavett,  480;  court-martialed,  481- 
489;  ill  health,  494;  at  Ft.  Stockton, 
495;  hostility  of  Col.  Wade,  501;  re- 
turns to  Washington,  502;  efforts  to 
secure  a  transfer,  502;  returns  to 
Texas,  504;  at  Ft.  Stockton,  504;  let- 
ter to  Secretary  of  War,  510;  scout- 
ing, 519-522;  trouble  with  Col.  Wade, 
523;  before  retiring  board,  527;  rec- 


ommended for  retirement,  528;  is 
retired,  530;  indignant,  531;  returns 
to  Washington,  532;  writes  to  Pres- 
ident Arthur,  532;  at  real  estate 
again,  534;  letter  to  the  President, 
539;  real  estate  deals,  543-557;  vis- 
its Gov.  Woodbury,  548;  goes  to  Cal- 
ifornia, 558-562;  buys  Oxford  Mili- 
tary Academy,  563-565;  assumes 
charge,  567;  letters  from  patrons, 
568;  closes  the  academy,  570;  organ- 
izes riding  school,  573;  visits  St. 
Louis,  576;  appointed  a  notary  pub- 
lic, 586;  insulted  at  inaugural  pa- 
rade, 586;  altercation  with  Beaver, 
588;  pulls  his  nose,  589;  arrest  No. 
22,  590;  court-martialed,  591;  sus- 
pended for  five  years,  593;  receives 
gold  medal,  593;  letter  to  Secretary 
of  War,  598;  persecuted  by  Scho- 
field,  602;  plans  extension  of  Conn. 
Ave.,  605;  aided  by  Senator  Stewart, 
607;  large  real  estate  deals,  609-617; 
moves  into  "Fairfield,"  614;  corre- 
spondence with  War  Dept.,  628-630; 
sentence  remitted,  630;  entertains 
his  old  regiment,  633;  takes  part  in 
Cleveland  inauguration,  634;  attends 
Senator  Faulkner's  wedding,  637; 
visits  Florida,  640;  celebrates  his 
birthday,  641;  entertains  Unity 
Club,  641;  notified  of  divorce  pro- 
ceedings, 643;  opposes  daughter's 
marriage,  644;  writes  to  Cardinal 

'  Gibbons,  648;  efforts  to  be  made 
lieut.-colonel,  650-660;  arrest  No.  24, 
661;  is  released,  663;  Judge  Brad- 
ley's  opinion,  663;  writes  to  Scho- 
field,  667;  to  I).  S.  Lament,  670; 
again  to  Schofield,  673;  attends 
opening  of  Hotel  Chamberlin,  680; 
domestic  troubles,  681;  visits  Rich- 
mond, 682;  Rochester,  682;  avoids 
the  District  courts,  683;  arrest  No. 
25,  683;  tricks  a  deputy  marshal, 
685;  visits  Burlington,  Vt.,  685;  his 
wife  secures  divorce,  688;  buys  Ap- 
pomattox  battlefields,  691;  visits 
Appomattox,  693-697;  visits  Albany, 
N.  Y.,  698;  works  on  his  brevet  case. 
700-704;  writes  to  Secretary  of  War, 
707;  scores  Schofield  in  another, 
710;  writes  to  the  President,  712; 
applies  to  be  made  brig.-general, 
713-724;  writes  to  Gen.  Miles,  719; 
to  Gen.  Corbin,  729;  to  Gen.  Miles 
again,  732;  to  Secretary  of  War,  739. 

Armes,  G.  K.,  455,  522,  577,  614,  646, 
650,  663,  725,  730. 


76i 


Arines,  Grover  C.,  646. 

Armes,  ,T.  O.,  14. 

Amies,  Lucy,  522,  645,  646. 

Armes,  Mrs.  O.  C.,  19. 

Armes,  Oscar    St.  J.,  566,  645,  646,  650. 

Armes,  Spring-,  180,  181. 

Armes,  Willie,  646. 

Armes,  Wm.,  13. 

Armes,  W.  E.,  16,  19,  149,  159,  231,  235. 

Armistead,  Maj.,  195. 

Army  and  Navy  Register,  9. 

Army  of  the  Potomac,    559,    577,  578, 

584. 

Arnold,  Benedict,  4. 
Arnold,  Col.,   183. 
Arthur,  C.  A.,  532,  541. 
Ashford,  M.,  572. 
Asper,  J.  S.,  345. 
Associated  Press,  8,  9. 
Astoria,  561. 
Atkins,  A.  B.,  8. 
Augur,  C.  C.,  84,  85,  136,  150,  151,  154, 

155,   158,   223,   375,  409,   410,   494,   500, 

502,  528,  530,  531,  532,  599. 
Auld,  Wm.,  703. 
Austin,   Dr.,   571. 
Averill,  W.  W.,  10. 
Axline,  Gen.,  585. 
Ayres,  A.  S.,  8. 

Babcock,  Gen.,  394,  433. 

Babcock,  J.  W.,  8. 

Bacheller,  G.  S.,  359,  360,  366. 

Bacon,  Capt.,  537. 

Badger,  A.  O.,  255,  289,  291,  292. 

Bailey,  R.  Q.,  9. 

Bailey,  Mrs.,  557. 

Bailey's  Cross  Roads,  44,  52. 

Bains,  Gen.,  411. 

Baird,  Gen.,  502. 

Baker,  Col.,  144,  145. 

Baker,  Gen.,  104. 

Baker,  Hon.,  394,  580. 

Baker,  I.  V.,  366. 

Baker,  L.,  7,  705,  715. 

Baker,  S.  M.,  149,  153. 

Baker,  W.  W.,   641. 

Balance,  J.  G.,  11. 

Baldridge,   Rev.,  459,   501. 

Baldwin,  F.  D.,  11. 

Ball,  Maj.,  538. 

Ball,  M.  D.,  25,  37,  38,  353,  354. 

Baltimore  Sun,  8. 

Bankhead,  Gen.,  270,  302. 

Banks,  N.  P.,  358,  431. 

Banning,   Gen.,   394,  397,   398,  407,  414, 

415,  417,  419,  431,  436. 
ianzhof,  C.,  258,  267,  306,  314,  670. 
Barber,  Maj.,  504. 


Barker,  E.  A.,  242,  243,  245,  247,  252. 
Barlow,  F.  C.,  10,  92-95,  98,  103,  104,  105, 

107,  108,  110,  112. 
Barnard,  Judge,  547,  640. 
Barnett,  W.  B.,  162,  263. 
Barnitz,  A.,  323,  324. 
Barnum,  Gen.,  599. 
Barnum,  Sen.,    583. 
Barr,  Col.,  543,  597. 
Barrett,  O.  D.,  352,  638. 
Barry,  Father,  644,  648,  649. 
Barry,  T.  H.,  12,  352,  367,  368. 
Bartlett,  J.  J.,  581. 
Bartley,  Miss  A.,  340. 
Bartley,  T.  W.,  336,  341,  345,  355,  421. 
Barton,  C.   S.,   119,   502. 
Bash,  D.  V.,  11. 
Bassett,  T.  E.,  264. 
Batchelder,  Miss,  631. 
Batchelder,  R.  N.,  10,  93,  543,  639,  669, 

702,  727. 

Batchelder,  W.  W.,  349,  433. 
Bates,  A.  E.,  164-171,  177,  179,  181,  182. 
Bates,  E.  W.,  486,  487. 
Bates,  J.  A.,  12. 
Bates,  Mrs.,  496. 
Batter,  Corp.,  247. 
Bayard,  T.  F.,  398,  407,  574. 
Bayliss,  Mrs.,  556. 
Beach,  Capt.,  387. 
Beal,  Mrs.,  701. 
Beale,  E.  M.,  581,  621,  634. 
Beale,  R.,  643. 
Beale,  T.,  625. 
Bean,  J.  W.,  12,  45. 
Bear  Creek,  281. 
Beard,  Mrs.,  390. 
Beard slee,  Adm'l,  703. 
Beauvais  Ranch,  219,  220. 
Beaver  Creek,  245,  248,  249,  303. 
Beaver,  J.  A.,  559,  577,  584,    585,    586, 

587,   588,   593,   596,  597,   599,   600,   629, 

635,  658,  659,  660,  665,  685,  723. 
Beck,  W.  H.,  271,  279,  282,  284,  286,  289, 

291,  292,  351,  455,  632. 
Beck,  Mrs.,  286,  293,  641. 
Beck,  Sen.,  537. 
Becker,  — ,  239,  240. 
Becker,  P.  A.,  247. 
Beckwith,  A.,  33. 
Beckwith,  P.  E.,  571. 
Beckwith's  Ranch,  464. 
Bee,  H.  P.,  503,  512. 
Beebe,  Maj.,  198,  203,  257,  259,  502. 
Beebe,  Mrs.,  198. 
Beecher,   Lt.,   249,   271,   275. 
Beema.n,  — ,  260. 
Beese,  W.,  189. 
Belden,  J.  J.,  8,  657,  717. 


762 


Belger,  Maj.,  357. 

Belknap  Rifles,   570. 

Belknap,  W.  W..  333,  334,  336,  341,  342, 
343,  345,  369,  373,  384,  385,  388,  389, 
394,  396,  397,  398,  399,  400,  401,  403, 
404,  406,  407,  409,  413,  415,  420,  426, 
428,  437,  439,  560,  570,  670,  723. 

Bell,  C.  E.,  695. 

Bell,  C.  H.,  641. 

Bell,  J.  C.,  641. 

Bell,  Lt.,  301. 

Bell,  W.  E.,  8. 

Belmont,  P.,  574. 

"Ben,"  57. 

Benham,  A.,  175-178,  255. 

Benham,  H.  H.,  12. 

Bens,  E.,  633. 

Bent,  R.,  283,  284. 

Benteen,  Col.,  257,  272. 

Benton,  H.  H.,  72,  82. 

Bentzoni,  C.,  11,  473. 

Berdan,  Gen.,  557. 

Berdan,  Mrs.,  631. 

Berrett,  J.  G.,  391,  621,  635. 

Berry,  A.  S.,  276,  298,  301,  656,  720. 

Berry,  Gen.,  530. 

Betten,  Ben.,  333. 

Biddle,  — ,  433. 

Big-  Creek,  237. 

Bigelow,  O.,  386,  534. 

Biggs,  Gov.,  595. 

Big  Mouth,  310. 

Big  Springs,  174. 

Billings,  J.  S.,  603. 

Bingham,  H.  H.,  8,  656. 

Bird,  C.,  10,  704. 

Birdsall,  A.  J.,  595,  633. 

Birney,  A.  A.,  393. 

Birney.  W.,  7,  89,  92,  93,  94.  102,  103, 
105,  106,  108,  109,  642. 

Bispham,  Dr.,  554. 

Black,  Gen.,  545,  558,  559,  560,  576,  580, 
581. 

Black,  J.  D.,  11,  699. 

Black,  Mrs.,  560. 

Black,  R.  J.,  568. 

Black,  W.  M.,  11. 

Blackburn,  J.  C.  S.,  412,  681. 

Blacker,  Judge,  478,  479,  487. 

Blackman's  Ford,  54. 

Elaine,  J.  G.,  7,  377,  410,  411,  442,  444, 
445,  446,  504,  542. 

Blair,  F.  P.,  Jr.,  343. 

Blair,  J.  F.,  594. 

Ulan  chard,  N.  C.,  654. 

Blankman,  — ,  546. 

Blinker,  Gen.,  52. 

Bliss,  A.,  575,  583,  584. 

Bliss,  A.  O.,  640,  706. 


Bliss,  O.  F.,  126. 

Bliss,  Z.  P.,  10. 

Blunt,  J.  G.,  160,  712. 

Blunt,  J.  W.,  222. 

Blunt,  M.   M.,   458,   462,   465,    467,    469, 

473,   475,  477,   478,   479,   480,   481,   482, 

485,  486,  487.  496,  599. 
Bodamer,  J.  A.,  230,  233,  234,  239,  240, 

241,   247,   253,   261,   269,   275,   276,   292, 

668. 

Boden,  Capt.,  225. 
Boggs,  — ,  283. 
Boggs,  Dr.,   282. 
Bond,  S.    R..   573,   596,   609. 
Bonham,  W.  L.,  35,  36. 
Bon  sail,  Lt.,  278,   285,   287. 
Bonsall,  Mrs.,  285. 
Boone,   Gen.,   286. 
Boonville,  Mo.,  383.  571. 
Booth,  E.,  531. 
Booth    Lumber  Co.,  78. 
Boinon,  — ,  534. 
Borden,  Lt.,  303. 
Boston  Journal,  8. 
Boston  Traveler,  8. 
Bourke,   Capt.,   586,    587,    590,   595,   597, 

599. 

Boutelle,  C.  A.,  8,  657. 
Bovey's  Ranch,  197. 
Bowen,   Sen.,  554. 
Bowman,  A.  H.,  194. 
Bowman,  J.  B.,  148. 
Bowman,  Miss  L.,  149. 
Boyce,  S.,  641. 
Boyd,  — ,  301. 
Bo'yd,  Capt.,  136. 
Boyd,  E.  M.,  9. 
Boyd,  J..    421. 
Boylis,   Mrs.,   229. 
Boynton,  C.   A.,   8. 
Boynton,  H.  V.,  9,  391,  408. 
Boynton,  Prof.,  622. 
Bracket*,   Col.,   695. 
Bradley,  — ,  564. 
Bradley,  A.  C.,  344,  663,  675,  717. 
Brady's,  108. 

Brady,  J.  D.,  Ill,  669,  716,  738,  749. 
Brady,  Jos.,   669. 
Bragg,    Gen.,    435-438. 
Brainard,  Maj.,  101. 
Branca,  Baroness,  678. 
Breck,  S.,  704,  725.  726,  729. 
Breckin ridge,  J.    C.,    10,    640,    694,    704, 

706,  725. 

Breckinridge,  W.  C.  P.,  656. 
Breckon,  J.  A.,  9. 
Brenner,  J.  L.,   720. 
Breslin,  J.  H..  366. 
Brewer,  E.  P.,  12. 


763 


Brice,  C.  T.,  654. 
-  Briggs,  J.  L.,  633. 
I  Brig-gs,  Lt.,  2*5. 
:  Bright,  Jessie,  336,  340. 
'  Brink,  — ,  239. 

Bristow,  Sec.,  392. 

Britton,  — ,  586. 

Broadhead,  Mark,  223,  356. 

Brockenbrough,  Dr.,  408. 

Brodhead,  J.  F.,  386. 

Brooke,  J.  K.,  10,  94,  303,  685,  686,  698, 
729. 

Brooks,  — ,  465,  472. 

Brooks,  F.,  633. 

Brooks,  Maj.,  381. 

Brooks,  N.  M.,  702. 

Brooklyn  Eagle,  8. 

Brooklyn  Times,  8. 

Brotherton,  D.  H.,  302,  323,  328. 

Broughton,  W.,  148. 

Brownell,  F.  E.,  267,  269. 

Brown,  — ,  301. 

Brown,  A.  H.,  189. 

Brown,  Capt.,  195,  199. 

Brown,  J.,  248. 

Brown,  J.  B.,  656. 

Brown,  J.  C.,  512. 

Brown,  J.  D.,  573,  574. 

Brown,  J.  E.,  126. 

Brown,  H.  G.,  461,  475. 

Brown,  Priv.,  282. 

Brown,  Prof.,  639. 

Brown,  Sergt.,  129. 

Brown,  W.,  547,  638. 

Brownston,  Maj.,  159. 

Bryan,  S.,  690,  693. 

Bryan,  W.  J.,  656,  687,  723. 

Bryant,  — ,  580. 

Buch,  H.,  189. 

Buchanan,  Dr.,  236,  241. 

Buchanan,  T.  A.,  11. 

Buck,  H.  S.,  567,  568. 

Buckeye,  M.  V.,  12. 

Buckholtz,  J.  A.,  189,  741,  743. 

Buckner,  Gen.,  687. 

Buckner's  Ranch,  291. 

Buell,  A.  C.,  394,  396,  425. 

Buell,  D.  H.,  322-332. 

Buffalo  Commercial,  8. 

Buffalo  Springs,  303. 

Buffington,  J.,  344. 

Buford,  N.  B.,  224,  375. 

Buford,  T.,  157,  224. 

Bugher,  A.  H.,  554,  556,  557,  572. 

Bull  Run,  52-56,  213. 

Bullis,  J.  L.,  11,  504. 

Bullitt,  J.  C.,  611,  612. 

Bunce,  Adml.,  681. 

Burbank,  Maj.,  203. 


Burchell,  — ,  429. 

Burdette,  S.  S.,  558,  559,  690,  692. 

Burgess,  B.  J.,  563-569. 

Burgess,  C.  H.,  5,  683. 

Burgess,  G.,  345. 

Burnell,  W.  B.,  10. 

Burnett,  Gen.,  452. 

Burns,  J.  M.,  12,  262. 

Burnside,  E.  A.,   10,  91,   101,   102,   103, 

190,  356. 

Burnside,  J.,  742. 
Burr,  E.,  12. 
Burr,  F.  H.,  633. 
Burr,  J.  345. 
Burrows,  — ,  583. 
Burrows,  J.  C.,  652. 
Burton,  B.,  116. 
Bush,  J.,  452,  469.  472,  473. 
Bushnell,  G.  T.,  633. 
Butterfield,    D.,    10,    35,    36,    687. 
Butterworth,  Capt.,  38,  41. 
Butler,  B.  F.,  35,  82,  638. 
Butler,  Corp.,  263. 
Butler,   E.,   269. 
Butler,  M.  C.,  451. 
Butler,  Prof.,  645. 
Butler,  R.  R.,  310,  316,  344. 
Byrne,  E.,  263,  277,  278,  281,  282,  294. 
Byrne,  G.  C.,  365. 

Cabell,  W.  D.,  621,  696. 
Cadmus,  C.  A.,  655. 
Cahill,  Lt.,  204. 
Caldwell,  J.  C.,  189. 
California  Syndicate,  607. 
Callahan,  — ,  501,  559. 
Callahan,  Miss,  559. 
Callow,  H.,  189. 
Camden,  J.  N.,  651. 
Cameron,  D.,  544,  545. 
Caminetti,  A.,  656. 
Cammack,  — ,  393. 
Camp,  Col.,  192,  223. 
Camp,  L.  M.,  84,  116. 
Camp  Beecher,  298. 
Camp  Elaine,  464. 
Camp  Bullis,  519. 
Camp  Butler,  464. 
Camp  Cockrell,  466. 
Camp  Faulkner,  466. 
Camp  Fry,  73. 
Camp  Grenada,  464. 
Camp  Grierson,  231. 
Camp  Hancock,  180. 
Camp  Hayes,  463. 
Camp  Hazelton,  464. 
Camp  Lee,  463. 
Camp  Lookout,  216. 
Camp  Maish,  464. 


Camp  Maxey,  463. 

Camp  Noland,  463. 

Camp  Plains,  218. 

Camp  Ridley,  463. 

Camp  Ritchie,  462. 

Camp  Sandy,  216. 

Camp  Santa  Rosa,  463. 

Camp  Starvation,  218. 

Camp  Supply,  335. 

Camp  Turner,  463. 

Campbell,  — ,  690. 

Campbell's  Camp,  236,  237,  239. 

Campbell,  G.  A.,  247,  252. 

Campbell,  Gov.,  563,  585,  693. 

Campbell,  J.  A.,  247. 

Campbell,  T.  J.,  655. 

Candee,  Maj.,  562. 

Cantwell,  Col.,  567. 

Capron,  Gen.,  391. 

Carey,  A.  B.,  10,  46,  251. 

Carey,  J.,  652. 

Carlton,  Capt.,  387. 

Carleton,  C.  C.,  8. 

Carlisle  Barracks,  156,  157,  229. 

Carnegie,  — ,  508. 

Carney,  Wm.,  189,  212. 

Carpenter,  F.  H.,  245,  252. 

Carpenter,  J.  A.,  247. 

Carpenter,  L.   W.,    231,     254,     255,    257, 

264,   272,  311,   312,   314,   349,   350,   387, 

433,  551. 

Carpenter,  M.  H.,  377. 
Carr,  — ,  184. 

Carr,  Gen,  284,  286,  289,  292,  295. 
Carrick,  A.  F.,  189. 
Carrington,  H.  B.,  10. 
Carro,  Miss,  700. 
Carroll,  Corp.,  174. 
Carroll,  D.,   624,   626. 
Carson,  Col.,   589,   603. 
Carson,  J.  M.,  8,  12,  589,  603,  717. 
Carter,  C.  H.,  81. 
Carter,  D.  K.,  345,  355. 
Carter,  Judge,  548,  550. 
Carter,  S.  A.,   78,   81,   343. 
Carter,  W.  F.,  493,    495,    506,  507,   516 

523,  524,  525. 

Carter,  W.  H.,  10,  704,  706,  725. 
Caruth,  A.  G.,  657. 
Casey,  J.,  344,  355,  386,  422. 
Casey,  J.  S.,  11,  285. 
Casper,  M.,  189. 
Castello,  J.,  189. 
Castle  Garden,  3. 
.Catts,  Rose,  585. 
Causey,  J.  W.,  657. 
Cayotte   Station,   265. 
Cedar  Rapids,  62. 
Centerville,   18,   52. 


Chamberlain,  Judge,  171. 

Chamberlin,  J.  F.,  9,  680. 

Chambers,  Col.,  556-557-558. 

Chandler,  G.  H.,  81. 

Chandler,   Z.,   37. 

Chapman,  D.  C.,  641. 

Chapman's  Creek,  300. 

Charleston  News,  8. 

"Charley,"  16,   17. 

Chappel,  Dr.,  643. 

Chase,  E.,  641. 

Chase,  G.   T.,   386. 

Chase,  S.  P.,  60. 

Cherry,   C.,   641. 

Chevy  Chase  Land  Co.,  608. 

Cheyenne   — ,    561. 

Chicago  News,  8. 

Chicago  Record,  8. 

Chicago  Tribune,  8. 

Chinatown,   560. 

Chipman,  Gen.,  231,  262. 

Chisman,  Miss  A.,  638. 

Chevington,  J.  M.,  338. 

Christiaiicy,  Sen'r,  431. 

Christy,   Sergt.,  237,   672. 

Church,   Capt.,  9. 

Churchill,  Prof.,  641. 

Cincinnati  Enquirer,  8. 

Cincinnati  Times-Star,  8. 

City  Point,  113,  114,  122,  134. 

CJapp,  W.  H.,  11. 

Clark,  — ,  231,  253. 

Clark,  Capt.,  120. 

Clark,  Hon.  C.  D.,  7. 

Clark,  G.  B.,  608. 

Clark,  J.,  213,  214. 

Clark,  M.  C.,  544. 

Clark,  R.  J.,  633. 

Clark,  fe.  M.,  714. 

Clark,  T.,  189. 

Clarke,  — ,  160. 

Clarke,  F.,  358,  481,  484. 

Clarke,  T.  P.,  120. 

Clarke,  J.  M.,  422. 

Clarke,  J.  W.,  454. 

Clarke,  Miss,  340. 

Clarke,  S.,  339. 

Clarke,  S.  N.,  9. 

Clarke,  W.  H.,  394,  421. 

Clarkson,  Gen.,  588,  700. 

Claude,  H.,  644,  683. 

Clay,  C.  M.,  32. 

Clayton,  P.,  12,  358,  373,  375,  379,  400, 

403,  413,  445,  696. 
Clem,  J.  L.,  11. 
Clemens,  Misses,  641. 
Clephane,  Miss  J.,  340. 
Cleveland,    G.,    535,    551,    573,    574,    575, 
576,  581,  586,  635. 


7*5 


Cleveland  Park,  7. 

Cline,  — ,  577. 

Close,  Miss  A.  E.,  149. 

Close,  J.  T.,  62,  66,  131,  148. 

Close,  O.,  189,  741. 

Closson,  H.  W.,  11,  661. 

Clough,  E.  N.  O.,  378. 

Clough,  J.  P.,  67. 

Clous,  J.  W.,  297,  456,  458,  466,  468,  469, 

471,  472,   473,  480,  481,  486,   498,   590, 

597,  599,  600,  601,  725,  726,  732,  738. 
Cluss,  — ,  429. 
Clymer,  H.,  397,  398,  399,  400,  401,  403, 

404,  406,  407,  437. 
Coad,  M.  M.,  740. 
Coad,  J.  F.,  210,  211,  690,  741. 
Coates,  E.  M.,  11,  40. 
Cobb,  A.,  338,  344. 
Coberton,  Gen.,  434. 
Coburn,  J.  C.,  8,  355,  370,  379,  384,  385, 

388,  389,  406,  445,  450,  513. 
Cocke,  Gen.,  35,  36. 
Cochran,  J.  C.,  510. 
Cockrell,  F.  M.,  7,  415,  442,  536. 
Cockrell,  K.  H.,  148. 
Cody,  W.  F.,  272,  580,  634. 
Coe,  S.,  20. 
Coke,  Sen.,  502. 
Colby,  L.  W.,  722. 
Colby,  Miss,  226,  251. 
Cold  Harbor,  93,  97,  99,  108,  113. 
Coldwell,  J.  T.,  386. 
Cole,  C.  C.,  683. 
Cole,  J.  T.,  643. 
Cole,  Sergt.,  521. 
Colgate,  Miss,  75. 
Colladay,  S.  E.,  292,  350,  495,  507,  516, 

519. 

Collins,  B.,  129. 
Collins,  Capt.,  352. 
Collins,  Chap'n,  284. 
Collins,  W.  E.,  345. 
Colt,  W.  D.,  345. 
Comstock,   — ,    169,   170,    171,   172,   173, 

177,  271. 

Comstock,  C.  B.,  10,  157. 
Comstock,  W.,  157. 
Compton,  C.  E.,  10. 
Conger,  A.  B.,  415,  574. 
Conkling,  Sen.,  273,  441,  442. 
Conkling,  J.  P.,  365. 
Connell,  M.,  189,  741. 
Connely,  T.,  189. 
Conover,  Sen.,  442. 
Conrad,  C.  H.,   705,   707,   725,   726,  733, 

740. 

Conrad,  H.,  393. 
Constable,  N.  S.,  454. 


Conwell,  — ,  577. 

Cook,  A.,  120,  138. 

Cook,  L.  W.,  12. 

Cook,  Lt.,  235,  257,  300. 

Cook  and  Lewis,  644,  645,  646. 

Cooke,  G.  F.,  11. 

Cooke,  P.  St.  G.,  10,  221,  224,  298,  300, 

338,  347,  375,  409,  410,  556,  595. 
Coolidge,  L.  A.,  8. 
Cooper,  C.  L.,  351,  504,  536. 
Cooper,  H.  C.,  67. 
Cooper,  S.  B.,  655. 
Copcutt,  F.,  360,  366. 
Corbin,  D.  K.,  72,  81. 
Corbin,  H.   C.,   235,   236,   237,   240,   241, 

244,   249,   254,   256,  489,   502,   504,   512, 

635,  637,  704,  706,  709,  719,  724,  730, 

733,  749. 

Corbit,  — ,  460,  516. 
Corcoran,  W.  W.,  414,  553. 
Corey,  Eev.  Dr.,  697,  702. 
Corkhill,  — ,  395. 
Coryal,  — ,  683. 
Countryman,  P.,  633. 
Courtney,  Maj.,  469,  472,  481. 
Cousins,  E.  G.,  8,  657. 
Cowling,  Mrs.  I.,  641. 
Cowling,  Miss  M.,  641. 
Cox,  C.  C.,  434. 
Cox,  C.  G.,  261,  276,  288,  290,  291,  292, 

296,  301,  302,  303,  306,  313,   316,  317, 

332,  357,  368,  400,  424,  448. 
Cox,  Gen.,  711. 
Cox,  Judge,  645. 
Coxen,  A.,  148. 
Crafts,  Col.,  108,  128. 
Craig,  Col.,  286,  421. 
Cramp,  C.  S.,  694. 
Crandall,  F.  M.,  11. 
Crandall,  Mrs.,  641. 
Crane,  Parris  &  Co.,  6. 
Crane,  W.  H.,  657. 
Crawford,  A.  M.  L.,  258. 
Crawford,  F.,  9. 
Crawford,  J.,  686. 
Crawford,  S.  J.,  250,  252,  298,  423,  424, 

545,  703. 
Creecy,  — ,  535. 
Cressen,  Col.,  698. 
Cresson,  C.  C.,  12. 
Crimmons,  J.  D.,  694. 
Crittenden,  Capt.,  699,  700. 
Crittenden,  Col.,  286. 
Crittenden,  T.  T.,    263,   264,    356,   421, 

437,  439,  449,  452,  531. 
Croker,  — ,  723. 
Crosby,  — ,  247. 
Crosby,  Dr.,  77. 


y66 


Crosby,  H.  T.,  376,  451. 

Crowley,  Col.,  571. 

Crumble,  C.  A.,  247. 

Cub  Eun,  54,  55. 

Culberson,  D.  B.,  656. 

Cunningham,  Col.,  266. 

Cullom,  S.  M.,  7,  582,  597,  714. 

Culver,  Dr.,  565,  567. 

Cummings,  A.  J.,  8,  721. 

Cummings,  A.  G.,  81. 

Cumming-s,  Gov.,  204. 

Cummins,  A.  S.,  661. 

Curry,  E.,  189. 

Curry,  M.  vV.,  189. 

Curtin,  Gov.,  577. 

Curtis,  — ,  304. 

Curtis,  G.  M.,  8,  577,  720. 

Curtis,  W.  E.,  8. 

Cushman,  Hon.,  749. 

Custer,  G.  A.,  257,  284,  287,  291,  322,  325, 

326,  343,  407,  408,  412,  425. 
Custer,  Mrs.  G.  A.,  412. 
Custer,  Tom,  235. 
Cutts,  Mrs.  M.,  631. 

Daingerfield,  W.,  352. 

Dallas,  Maj.,  223,  386,  425,  481. 

Daly,  —,191. 

Daniel,  J.  W.,  7,  654,  692,  732,  738,  740, 

749,  753. 

Darling,  J.  A.,  11. 
Darlington,  S.,  312,  574. 
David,  Prince,  757. 
Davidson,  J.  W.,  258,  385,  387. 
Davies,  Gen.,  554. 
Davis,  — ,  254,  559,  560. 
Davis,  C.  K.,  7,  430,  442,  652,  753  (Mrs.), 

692. 

Davis,  E.  J.,  503,  512. 
Davis,  Mrs.  G.,  393. 
Davis,  G.  B.,  598. 
Davis,  H.,  7,  633,  690,  694. 
Davis,  H.  T.,  258,  262. 
Davis,  Jefferson,  53,  744. 
Davis,  Mrs.  J.,  682. 
Davis,  J.  C.,  189. 
Davis,  J.  W.,  189. 
Davis,  L.  J.,  393,  421. 
Davis,  Miss,  71. 
Davis,  W.,    11,    254,    266,    276,    286,    289, 

311,   314,   467,   480,   493,   494,   499,   501, 

526,  529. 

Dawson,  E.,  171,  189. 
Day,  690. 
Dayton,  Col.,  82. 
Dean,  — ,  456,  632. 
Dean,  Judge,  547. 
Dean,  Sergt.,  174. 


Deerfield,  Mass.,  13,  14. 

De  Grafenreid,  H.  A.,  8. 

De  Kay,  D.,  42,  43. 

Delahay,  Judge,  257. 

Delaney,  D.  F.,  148. 

Delaney,  M.,  189. 

Delaney,  W.  H.,  148. 

Delmar,  — ,  632. 

Dent,  J.  C.,  12. 

Denver,   J.   W.,   433,   534,   535,   536,    561. 

562. 

Denver  Eepublican,  9. 
Depray,  J.  A.,  12. 
De  Eivas,  M.  E.,  365,  366. 
Derlin,  J.,  189,  227. 
De  Eudio,  C.  E.,  12. 
De  Eussey,  — ,  43. 
Desmar,  H.,  189. 
Des  Moines  Eegister,  8. 
Detroit  Free  Press,  8. 
Devine,  A.,  570. 
Dewees,  Capt.,  204. 
Dewey,  — ,  679. 
Dewey,  J.  E.,  189. 
Dibrell,  Judge,  436. 
Dick,  J.,  383. 
Dickerson,  — ,  456. 
Dickey,  C.  J.,  481. 
Dickinson,  W.  S.,  366. 
Dickson,  W.,  535,  571,  576. 
Dimmick,  G.,  189,  211. 
Dinsmore,  H.  A.,  8,  657,  720. 
Divin,  A.  S.,  10,  80,  118,  119. 
Dockery,  O.  H.,  344. 
Dodge,  E.  A.,  301. 
Dodge,  F.  S.,  484,  505,  506. 
Dodge,  E.  T.,  214,  215,  219,  220,  514,  598. 
Doherty,  E.  P.,  355. 
Dolan,  P.,  189. 
Dolph,  Sen.,  561,  588. 
Donley,  J.  B.,  344. 
Donley,  J.  F.,  189. 
Donnan,  H.,  189. 
Donnan,  W.  G.,  445. 
Donnelly,  J.  B.,  356. 
Donnington,  Miss  M.,  362. 
Donohue,  M.,  559. 
Donohue,  W.  H.,  82,  301. 
Donoylien,  W.  B.,  345. 
Don  Pedro,  410. 
Don  Piatt,  431,  432. 
Dorsey,  Col.,  580,  583,  584,  585. 
Doswell,  E.  W.,  695. 
Doubleday,  Capt.,  699. 
Dougherty,  Dr.,  99,  96,  99,  103,  104. 
Dougherty,  E.,  546. 
Douglass,   Com'r,  433,  595. 
Douglass,  Maj.,  274,  290. 


767 


Dowell,  A.  H.,  352. 

Downing,  Maj.,  561. 

Draney,  Miss,  641. 

Dresser,  Lt.,  36,  38. 

Drew,  Misses,  543. 

Drew,  Mrs.,  631. 

Driver,  W.  R.,  120. 

Droun,  A.  H.,  742. 

Drum,  Mrs.,  578. 

Drum,  R.  C.,  141,  502,  503,  507,  512,  515, 
530,  531,  533,  534,  541,  565,  567,  575, 
578,  583,  584,  587,  591,  600,  729. 

Dudley,  Comr.,  503. 

Dufour,  A.,  189. 

Dugan,  Lt.,  162. 

Duggan,  Maj.,  412. 

Dugin,  J.  S.,  81. 

Dulan,  Father;  554. 

Dulaney,  H.  G.,  553. . 

Dulaney,  R.,  611. 

Dulaney,  W.,  24. 

Dungan,  V.,  189. 

Dunn,  WT.  M.,  420. 

Dunnell,  E.  G.,  9. 

Dunwoody,  H.  C.,  10. 

Durborow,  A.  C.,  655. 

"Dutchman,  The,"  2,  496. 

Duvall,  Lt.,  673,  698,  704,  726,  728,  734, 
738,  739. 

Dwight,  — ,  620. 

Dykeman,  F.  E.,  633. 

Eads,  L.  T.,  552. 

Earl,  Dr.,  435. 

Earl,  F.,  595,  609. 

Early,  J.  A.,  115. 

Easterly,  C.,  456,  459,  460,  462,  465,  467, 

468,  470,  472,  477,  478,  486. 
Eastman,  — ,  557. 
East  on,  L.  C.,  257,  258.  ' 
Eaton,  385. 
Eaton,  Col.,  286,  337. 
Ebbitt,  The,  6. 
Eddie,  Lt.,  160. 
Eddy,  G.  L.,  12. 
Edgerly,  W.  S.,  11. 
Edmunds,  Sen.1,  441-444,  543. 
Edson,  J.  J.,  694. 
Edwards,  Capt.,  503. 
Edwards,  C.  A.,  8. 
Edwards,  F.,  189. 
Edwards,  W.  A.,  8. 
Edwards,  W.  L.,  29. 
Eglmrt,  H.  G.,  137. 
Egerton,  H.,  558. 
Eggleston,  Dr.,  572. 
Elderkin,  W.  A.,  10. 
Elkins,  S.  B.,  422,  430,  631,  652. 


"Eli  Perkins,"  365,  366. 

Ellicott,  — ,  669,  677. 

Elliott,    Maj.,     243,   244,   247,   248,   256, 

284,  658. 

Ellis,  — ,  169,  534. 
Ellis,  Col.,  562. 
Ellis,  J.,  189. 
Ellis,  W.  F.,  7. 
Ellison,  — ,  556,  557,  605. 
Ellsworth,  Col.,  21,  36-41,  267,  269,  301, 

305,  317,  401. 
Elmira,  N.  Y.,  116-119. 
Ely,  S.,  Jr.,  359,  365,  366. 
Embrey,  J.  H.,  421. 
Emmerson,  Corp.,  171. 
Emory,  M.  G.,  6,  226/340,  345,  421. 
Endicott,  Sec.,  543,  574. 
English,  G.  H.,  254,  257,   259,   318,  333, 

355. 

English,  Maj.,  195. 
English,  W/B.,  655. 
Enterkin,  H.,  189. 
Erskine,  C.,  189. 
Eslin,  — ,  611. 
Eugster,  E.  W.,  641. 
Evans,  — ,  446,  557. 
Evans,  J.  F.,  386. 
Evans,  J.  O.,  370. 
Evans,  Lt.,  563. 
Evans,  Mrs.  S.,  641. 
Evans,  Sergt.,  282,  284. 
Evarts,  Sen.,  575. 
Ewing,   C.  W.,   345,   356,   394,   421,   429, 

430,  432,  435. 
Ezekial,  Lt.,  Ji66. 

Fair,  Sen.,  553,  554. 

Fairbanks,  Sen.,  695. 

Fairchild,  C.  S.,  559,  565,  567,  574,  575. 

Fairfax,  J.,  414. 

Fairfax  Ct.  House,  20,  21,  24,  27,  29,  40, 

44,  46,  59,  146,  147,  148. 
Fairfield,  577. 
Falls  Church,  20,  65. 
Fannagan,  J.  W.,  247,  357. 
Farmville,  Va.,  136. 
Farnham,  N.  L.,  39. 
Farnsworth,  Gen.,  367. 
Farwell,  C.  B.,  503,  504,  512,  584. 
"Fat  Andy,"  111. 
Faulkner,  C.  J.,  Sr.,  450,  451,  46u. 
Faulkner,  C.  J.,  Jr.,  422,  575,  637,  651, 

723. 

Faulkner,  C.  P.,  12. 
Faulkner,  E.  B.,  638. 
Faulkner,  J.  G.,  449,  451. 
Faulkner,  Miss  M.  C.,  638. 
Faust  &  Tyler,  681,  688. 


Fay,  J.  B.,  81. 

Fearing,  H.,  46,  81,  82. 

Fenton,  Lt.,  192. 

Ferman,  — ,  534. 

Ferry,  — ,  151. 

Ferry,  T.  W.,  345,  447. 

Fessenden,  G.,  189. 

Fetterman,  Col.,  199. 

Field,  C.  C.,  159. 

Field,  in.,  11. 

Fielder,  G.  B.,  700,  705. 

Fields,  Judge,  554. 

Finley,  Maj.,  412. 

Fisher,  Col.,  521. 

Fisher,  G.  P.,  344. 

Fisher,  Lt.,  253. 

Fisk,  Gen.,  508,  527,  530. 

Fitch,  Dr.,  312. 

Fitch,  Lt.,  198. 

Fitzhugh,  Mrs.,  47,  49,  50,  51,  144. 

Fitzpatrick,  D.,  189. 

Flagler,  Gen.,  382,  700. 

Flagler,  Col.,  620. 

Flanders,  F.  B.,  189,  742. 

Flannagan,  Sen.,  374. 

Fleming,  G.,  595. 

Fletcher,  — ,  150. 

Fletcher,  J.,  386. 

Fletcher,  L.,  657. 

Fletcher,  Lt.,  91. 

Fletcher,  T.  C.,  160. 

Flipper,  H.  O.,  509. 

Flood,  C.  E.,  165,  167,  174,  175,  177. 

Flood,  H.,  696. 

Flood,  J.,  697. 

Flower,  Gov.,  687. 

Floyd,  W.,  741. 

Foote,  — ,  212. 

Foote,  G.  F.,  469. 

Foote,  Miss  K.,  577. 

Foote,  W.  T.,  657. 

Foraker,  J.  B.,  7,  696. 

Ford,  W.  S.,  29. 

Forney,  534. 

Forrester,  F.,  247. 

Forsyth,  G.  A.,  11,  262,  273,  275. 

Forsyth,  J.  W.,  495. 

Fort  Casper,  201. 

Fort  Columbus,  452. 

Fort  Concho,   453,    467,  473,    474,   493, 

499. 

Fort  Constitution,  75. 
Fort  Dodge,  274,  289-294,  297,  303. 
Fort  Ellsworth,  160,  162,  163,  171,  177 

562. 

Fort  Gibson,  260. 
Fort  Griffin,  453. 
Fort  Harker,  230,  231,  251,  298,  300, 


302,  304,  306,  658. 
Fort  Hays,  235,  236,  243,  245,  247,  248, 

249,   254,   256,   258,   259,   267,   269,   275, 

284,  291,  293,  294,  301,  312,  319,  562. 
Fort  Laramie,    182,   189,   192,    194,   195, 

199,  203,  204,  209,  210,  223. 
Fort  Larnard,  303. 
Fort  Laurence,  249. 
Fort  Leavenworth,    160,    163,   229,   230, 

231,   234,   252,   264,   269,   297,   316,   318, 

320,  321,  323,  327,  328,  335,  336,  426. 
Fort  Lyon,  170,  171,  174,  175,  278,  279, 

286,  287,  290,  292,  294,  296,  373. 
Fort  Morton,  126. 
Fort  Myer,  44,  142,  194. 
Fort  McKavett,  480,  481,  490. 
Fort  Parker,  562. 
Fort  Phil  Kearney,  199,  211. 
Fort  Reno,  115. 
Fort  Riley,  160,  162,  231,  248,  254,  257, 

259,  260,  293,  387,  562. 
Fort  Runyon,  37. 
Fort  Saunders,  212. 
Fort  Sedgwick,  177,  181,  188,  190,  191, 

194,   205,   209,   210,   212,   213,   215,   219, 

221,  223,  224,  410. 
Fort  Sill,  311,  385,  386. 
Fort  Stevens,  115. 
Fort  Stockton,   454,  459,   461,   467,  470, 

473,   474,   477,   487,    495,    515,    517,    521, 

523,  526,  528,  529. 
Fort  Sumter,  41. 
Fort  Wallace,    162,     163,     166-181,     205, 

266,  267,  270,  294,  562. 
Fort  Whipple,  43,  140,  220. 
Fortress  Monroe,  59. 
Forwood,  W.  A.,  10. 
Foster,  J.,  189,  192. 
Foulk,  Capt.,  441. 
Fowle,  R.,  148. 
Fowler,  J.,  77. 
Fowler,  W.  J.,  670. 
Fox,  — ,  212. 
Fox,  A.,  148. 
Fox,  F.  G.,  29. 
Frank,  Adj.,  46. 
Frazer,  Miss,  700. 
Frazier,  J.,  477,  478,  508,  512,  517. 
Frazier,  Judge,  501. 
Freeman,  Ef.  B.,  183. 
Freeman,  Lt.,  632. 
Freeman,  P.,  189. 
French,  G.,  149. 
French,  J.  T.,  Jr.,  635. 
French,  J.  W.,  10. 
French,  Lt.,  97,  103. 
French,  Miss  M.,  610,  648. 
French,  W.  W.,  365,  554. 


769 


Friar,  B.  E.,  10. 
Froham,  I.,  607. 
Frost,  Miss,  572. 
Frost,  Mrs.,  572. 
Fry,  J.  B.,  553. 
Fry,  S.  D.,  8. 
Frye,  W.  P.,  7,  440,  652. 
Fryer,  Dr.,  257,  302. 
Fuller,  A.  M.,  12. 
Furnice,  A.  H.,  189,  211. 

Gaines,  Col.,  645. 

Gairas'  Mills,  99,  101. 

Galbraith,  H.  S.,  197. 

Gale,  W.  H.,  581,  595,  633,  679,  701. 

Gallagher,  — ,  521. 

Gait,  — ,  554,  588. 

Galvin,  J.  C.  H.,  465   476. 

Gantt,  J.  M.,  625. 

Gardiner,  — ,  638. 

Gardiner's  Ranch,  464. 

Gardner,  Maj.  H.,  11,  706. 

Garfield,  J.  A.,  415,  416,  418. 

Garland,  Gen.,  551,  586. 

Garling-ton,  E.  A.,  706,    718,    728,   732, 

734,  738,  739. 
Garrett,  A.  E.,.  345,  352. 
Garrison,  Wm.,  189. 
Gates,  — ,  610. 
Gay,  Hon.,  544,  555. 
Geddes,  Col.  A.,  11,  454,  455,  462,  466, 

747. 

Geddes'  Ranch,  519. 
Geddy,  G.  W.,  12. 
Geissenheiner,  J.  A.,  655. 
Gennmond,  Lt.,  199. 
Gentry,  W.,  264. 
Gettysburg,  141,  577. 
Geysers,  560. 
Gibbon,  J.,  10,  92,  101,  104,  105,  106,  108, 

111. 

Gibbons,  Cardinal,  648. 
Gibbs,  Col.,  157,  250,  274. 
Gibson,  — ,  391. 
Gibson,   C.   H.,   632,   639,   640,   650,    651, 

693. 
Gibson,  Col.,  586,  587,  590,  596,  597,  599, 

600. 

Gibson,  E.  J.,  8. 
Gibson,  Wm.,  189. 
Gifford,  A.  W.,  492,  531,  576,  577. 
Gifford,  Mrs.,  576. 
Gilbert,  — ,  390. 
Gilliland,  G.  E.,  9,  562. 
Glover,  C.  C.,  615,  622,  635. 
Glover,  Gen.,  398-407,  410,  415,  417,  531, 

583. 
Gobright,  — ,  412. 


Godfield,  G.,  247. 

Goldsborough,  561. 

Gonzales,  M.  J.,  55,  460. 

Goodale,  G.  A.,  598. 

Goode,  J.,  678. 

Goode,  Prof.,  622. 

Goodloe,  Col.,  585. 

Goodwin,  Capt.,  707. 

Goodwin,  Nat.,  694. 

Goodwin,  P.,  24. 

Goodwin,  W.  P.,  12. 

Gordon,  D.  S.,  10,  46,  194. 

Gordon,  H.,  189. 

Gordon,  J.  B.,  421,  577,  652. 

Gordon,  J.  H.,  247,  252. 

Gordon,  Maj.,  530,  570. 

Gorman,  A.  P.,  651. 

Gorman,  Lt.,  44. 

Gosman,  J.  J.,  189. 

Goss,  W.,  641. 

Gould,  S.  F.,  137. 

Gowans,  Sergt.,  522. 

Gracey,  G.,  633. 

Grady,  — ,  352. 

Grafton,  B.  F.,  7,  226,  344,  355,  374,  424. 

Graham,  G.  W.,  2,  253,  263,  264,  265,  306- 
309,  313-322,  330,  332,  383,  392,  424, 
426,  448,  674. 

Graham,  J.  H.,  366. 

Graham,  P.,  227. 

Grand  Tournament,  365. 

Grandin,  E.  B.,  621. 

Grant,  F.  D.,  225,  391-393. 

Grant,  Gov.,  561. 

Grant,  L.  A.,  630. 

Grant,  O.,  391,  393. 

Grant,  U.  S.,  9,  68,  84-89,  93,  97,  98,  104, 
111,  113,  114,  136,  213,  214,  222,  225, 
261,  265,  269,  270,  332,  337,  341,  344, 
345,  351,  353,  372,  379,  382,  409,  419, 
428,  441,  634,  666. 

Grant,  Vv.  G.,  366. 

Gray,  — ,  631. 

Gray,  Gov.,  576. 

Greely,  A.  W.,  10. 

Greely,  H.,  352,  353,  379,  380. 

Gregg,  Lt.,  183. 

Green,  — ,  186,  196. 

Green,  C.,  189. 

Green,  Gen.,  699. 

Green,  Geo.,  555,  556,  575. 

Green,  J.,  10,  162,  163,  183,  189. 

Green,  O.  D.,  10,  162. 

Green,  Rev.,  700. 

Greenleaf,  C.  R.,  10. 

Greenwood,  Marmion  &  Co.,  734. 

Grey,  Capt.,  572. 


Grey,  Miss,  572. 

Grierson,  B.  H.,  2,  248,  254,  255,  260, 
262,  307,  308,  351,  436,  441,  453,  455, 
458,  462,  472,  474,  493,  494,  495,  500, 
502,  510,  511,  540,  599,  647,  658,  660, 
729,  758. 

Grierson,  Miss,  255. 

Griffin,  Gen.,  106,  409. 

Grigsby,  H.  G.,  29. 

Grimes,  J.  W.,  214. 

Groman,  M.,  189. 

Groom,  — ,  673. 

Groome,  Gov.,  632. 

Grosvenor,  C.  H.,  8,  541,  558,  621,  694, 
696,  704,  714,  738. 

Grout,  W.  W.,  657. 

Grow,  — ,  391. 

Gunckel,  L.  13.,  379,  445. 

Gunnell,  W.  P.,  29,  148. 

Gunston  &  Co.,  393. 

Gunton,  W.,  434. 

Guthridg-e,  J.,  8. 

Gwynn,  E.  P.,  362. 

Gwynn,  R.  C.,  362,  373. 

Racket,  A.,  189. 

Haddock,  Mrs.,  77. 

Haden,  — ,  663. 

Hagner,  Judge,  643,  681,  683. 

Hahn,— ,  6. 

Haines,  P.  C.,  10. 

Halderman,  J.  A.,  421. 

Hale,  F.  H.,  316,  328,  329. 

Hale,  H.,  127. 

Haley,.  M.,  168,  189,  741. 

Halford,  E.  W.,  11,  591,  629. 

Hall,  Capt.,  558. 

Hall,  D.,  189. 

Hall,  Dr.,  126,  455,  457,  465. 

Hall,  J.  D.,  11. 

Hall,  W.  P.,  11. 

Hall,  R.  M.,  344. 

Halleck,  W.  F.,  11, .181,  182. 

Hames,  C.  D.,  657. 

Hamilton,  Capt.,  235,  284. 

Hamilton,  C.  A.,  8. 

Hamilton,  Lt.,  162,  742. 

Hamilton,  Sen.,  371,  390,  416,  615. 

Hammill,  J.  S.,  137. 

Hammond,  \v.  A.,  10. 

Hancock,  J.,  504,  505,  534. 

Hancock,  W.  S.,  10,  88-118,  134,  155, 
156,  159,  178,  180,  201,  203,  230,  234, 
256,  261,  293,  348,  352,  353,  375,  382, 
399,  409,  410,  424,  429,  433,  439,  440, 
452,  503,  527,  534,  551,  552,  553,  647, 
651,  654,  658,  666,  669,  724. 

Hancock,  Mrs.  W.  S.,  569. 


Hand,  J.,  189. 

Handford,  E.,  190. 

Handley,  J.  M.,  366. 

Hanford,  169. 

Haniia,  Lt.,  285,  286. 

Haiina,  Mrs.,  285. 

Hanny,  J.  W.,  11. 

Hanover  Ct.  House,  91,  92. 

Hanover  Junction,  89. 

Hardesty,  — ,  406. 

Hansbrough,  H.  C.,  7,  654. 

Hardie,  J.  A.,  10,  85-87. 

Hardie,  Lt.,  349. 

Hare,  L.  R.,  11. 

Harker,  — ,  272. 

Harlan,  J.,  334. 

Harland,  Dr.,  433. 

Harmer,  A.  C.,  656. 

Harmon,  W.  R.,  197,  351. 

Harney,  W.  T.,  540. 

Harper,  Dr.,  723. 

Harrington,  E.  J.,  156. 

Harris,  Sen.,  436. 

Harrison,  B.,  585,  586. 

Harrison,  Capt.,  169. 

Harrison,  Carter,  417. 

Harrison,  Dr.,  603. 

Harrison,  F.,  641. 

Harrison,  R.,  631,  692,  696. 

Hart,  A.,  61,  386. 

Hart,  Capt.,  197. 

Hart,  Col.,  576. 

Hartleben,  Dr.,  641. 

Hartley,  J.,  469. 

Harvey,  Gov.,  298,  345. 

Haskell,  — ,  438. 

Haakell,  Col.,  94. 

Hastings,  Gen.,  585,  586,  588. 

Hatch,  — ,  284. 

Hatch,  J.  P.,  10,  552,  553. 

Hatch,  W.  H.,  657. 

Hatcher's   Run,    122-128,    138,    213,    382, 

409. 

Haughey,  Lt.,  216. 
Haulia,  J.  H.,  703. 
Havard,  Capt.,  254. 
Hawkins,  J.  P.,  10. 
Hawley,  J.  B.,  379,  384,  445. 
Hawley,  J.  R.,  379,  384,  445,  628. 
Hawley,  R.  B.,  720. 
Haxhurst,  J.,  152. 
Hay,  J.,  8,  719. 
Hayes,  — ,  247. 
Hayes,  E.  M.,  10,  393. 
Hayes,  H.  C.,  9. 
Hayes,  Mrs.,  682. 
Hayes,  R.  B.,  431,  449-452,  4m,. 
Hayes,  W.  L,  656. 


77  T 


Haynes,  C.  H.,  189,  741. 

Hays  City,  258,  270,  274,  294. 

Hays  .City  Times,  253. 

Hays,  Lt.,  287. 

Haywood,  Col.,  701. 

Hazelton,  — ,  447. 

Hazen,  W.  B.,  397,  399,  401,  437,  497,  502, 

504,   512,   513,   517,   518,   532,    533,    534, 

542,  543. 

Hearst,  Sen.,  576,  577,  581,  596. 
Heath,  J.,  149. 
Heger,  Dr.,  614. 
Heiner,  G.  G.,  661. 
Heiner,  R.  G.,  501,  513,  514,  541. 
Heintzelman,  S.  P.,  10,  36,  37,  47,  49,  52, 

54,  57,  59,  68,  213. 
Heiron,  P.,  189. 
Heiskell  &  McLeren,  7. 
Heiss,  A.  E.,  8. 
Heleluhe,  J.,  693,  703. 
Heleluhe,  Mrs.  W.,  703. 
Hehnick,  W.,  356,  358. 
Henderson,  Col.,  588. 
Henderson,  T.  J.,  656. 
Hendricks,  Vice-Pres.,  544,  545. 
Hendricks,  Mrs.,  576. 
Henicke,  W.,  189. 
Henley,  — ,  556. 
Henry,  T.,  137,  254. 
Herbert.  H.  A.,  681,  705. 
Herman,  E.,  71. 
Herr,  A.,  596,  611. 
Herring,  W.,  344,  356. 
Hertsman,  R.,  190. 
Hess,  F.  W.,  598. 
Hester,  — ,  400. 
Hewitt,  O.  W.,  29. 
Hicks,  Mrs.,  362,  639. 
Hiestand,  H.  O.  S.,  704. 
Higths,  — ,  283. 
Hill,  — ,  391. 
Hill,  A.  M.,  162. 
Hill,  D.  B.,  642. 
Hill,  Miss  Ida,  317. 
Hill,  J.,  344,  357. 
Hill,  R.  G.,  11. 
Hill,  Sergt.,  472. 
Hilliard,  A.  J.,  137. 
Hillory,  W.,  247. 
Hillyer,  Judge,  608. 
Hinks,  E.  W.,  10,  78,  82,  116. 
Hischberges,  J.  P.,  189.   . 
Hitchcock,  Sen.,  392. 
Hitt,  S.  R.,  574. 
Hoag,  A.,  148. 
Hoar,  G.  F.,  7,  652,  722. 
Hoard,  J.  T.,  657. 
Hoban,  — ,  572. 
Hobon,  Father,  484,  491,  534. 


Hodges,  Mr.  and  Mrs.,  641. 

Hoffman,  Gen.,  229,  230,  257. 

Hoffman,  j.  T.,  359,  364,  366. 

Hoffnagel,  M.,  189. 

Hoge,  S.  H.,  344. 

Hogg,  G.,  120,  122,  126,  128,  132,  133,  137, 

138,  668. 
Holden,  — ,  19. 
Holden,  A.  B.,  77. 
Holladay,  — ,  545,  561. 
Holman,  W.  S.,  655. 
Holmes,  Capt.,  77. 
Holt,  J.,  347. 
Homel,  E.,  189. 
Hooker,  C.  E.,  656. 
Hooker,  Gen.,  597,  621. 
Hooker,  F.  J.,  189. 
Hooper,  Fannie,  153. 
Hooper,  Sarah,  153. 
Hope  Castle,  15,  26,  147. 
Hopkins,  — ,  117. 
Horsford,  F.  H.,  8,  718. 
Horn,  Col.,  395. 
Hort,  Mrs.  E.,  641. 
Hosley,  Col.,  77. 
Hosmer,  C.,  336. 
Hough,  Col.,  484,  525,  527,  528. 
Houston  Post,  8.  . 

Houston,  R.,  492. 
Howard,  Lt.,  250. 
Howard,  J.,  566. 
Howard,  H.,  673. 
Howard,  O.   O.,    10,   150,   152,   153,   158, 

678,  686,  755. 
Howell,  J.,  247. 
Howgate,  Capt.,  436,  446. 
Hoxie,  R.  L.,  11.    v 
Huff,  G.  F.,  656. 
Hughes,  — ,  205. 
Hughes,  B.  H.,  182. 
Hull,  J.  A.  T.,  8,  704,  719. 
Hulser,  O.  F.,  127,  135,  138,  701. 
Humphrey,  C.  F.,  11,  704. 
Humphreys,  Capt.,  133. 
Humphreys,  W.  J.,  171,  187,  189. 
Humphries,  W.,  741. 
Hunt,  O.  W.,  148. 
Hunter,  D.,  46,  225-228. 
Hunter,  Gen.,  144. 
Hunter,  Miss,  682. 
Hurst,  Bishop,  692. 
Husk,  L.  W..  137. 
Hutchins,  W.  S.,  8. 
Hyde,  J.,  132,  137. 
Hyde,  T.,  663. 

"Tke  COOTI,"  365,  366. 

Tne-alls,  Capt.,  558. 

Tngallfi,  R.,   10,   134,   160.    .61.    503,    545, 


772 


546. 

ingersoll,  E.  C.,  421. 

ingersoll,  K.  G.,  352,  503,  504,  534,  608. 
Imnan,  H.,  300,  570. 
Ireland,  Archbishop,  696. 
[rwiii,  Capt.,  381. 
Irvin,  Capt.,  699. 

Jackson,  — ,  543. 

Jackson,  d.  W.,  21,  22. 

Jackson,  E.  M.,  362. 

Jackson,  J.,  267. 

Jacobs,  A.  H.,  77. 

Jacobs,  J.  C.,  366. 

Jacobs,  J.  W.,  192. 

James,  W.  H.,  11. 

Jarvis,  W.  P.,  366. 

Javins,  E.,  149. 

Jecko,  Judge,  196,  577. 

Jecko,  S.,  196,  578. 

Jefferson  Barracks,  571. 

Jefferson,  E.,  641. 

Jeffreys,  Gen.,  433,  638. 

Jeffries,  Mrs.,  697. 

Jenafer,  Judge,  263. 

Jenks,  J.  E.,  9. 

Jenness,  G.  B.,   242,   244,   245,   246,   247, 

Jenness,  J.,  206,  207,  211,  742. 

252*,  254. 

Jennings,  M.  J.,  365. 
Jessup,  E.,  138. 
Jewett,  Adml.,  543. 
Jewett,  Maj.  H.,  525,  529,  530. 
Johnson,  — ,  561. 
Johnson,  Comr.,  391,  436. 
Johnson,  J.  J.,  344,  421. 
Johnson,  Miss  E.,  390. 
Johnson,  Pres.,  231,  310. 
Johnson,  R.,  390,  400. 
Johnson,  Sen.,  441. 
Johnson,  Sergt.,  245,  247,  271. 
Johnson,  S.  E.,  8. 
Johnson,  T.,  624. 
Johnson,  W.,  366,  389,  671. 
Johnson,  W.  H.,  362. 
Johnson,  W.  R,,  365. 
Johnston,  J.  E.,  281. 
Johnston.   S.  W.,  356,  386. 
Jones,  C.  F.,  137. 
Jones,  J.  P.,  7,  574,  723. 
Jones  House.  91,  103,  104,  106,  110. 
Jones,  Mary,  484. 
Jones,  W.  A.,  657. 
Jones,  W.  T.,  358. 
Jordan,  J.  J..  165. 
Joy,  J.  T.,  720. 
Judson,  B.  F.,  365. 
Judson,  T).  T.,  360. 
Junction  City,  162,  255,  256,  262. 


ivalano-Kalani,  703. 

Kansas  City  Times,  8. 

Kassoii,  J.,  545. 

Keane,  Sergt.,  187,  190,  211. 

Kearney,  Mrs.,  149,  151,  152. 

Keith,  — ,  685. 

Keith,  D.,  190. 

Kell,  W.  H.,  481,  482. 

Keller,  J.,  192. 

Kelley,  J.  F.,  635. 

Kelley,  J.  M.,  236,  351,  387,  488. 

Kellogg,  S.  C.,  598. 

Kellogg,  W.    P.,    7,    428,    442,    546,    612, 

690. 

Kellogg,  Mrs.,  209. 
Kelly,  Capt.,  505. 
Kelly,  J.  K.,  379,  445. 
Kelly,  Moses,   358,    370,   384,    385,   386, 

391,  396,  421. 
Kelton,  J.  C.,  10,  156,  214,  595,  598,  601- 

604,  629,  729. 
Kemmel,  J.,  190. 
Kendall,  Miss  I.,  227. 
Kendrick,  F.  M.  H.,  11,  83,  117,  705. 
Kennedy,  W.  B.,  230,  253,  263,  264,  269, 

270,  332,  387,  595. 
Kent,  J.  F.,  10,  452. 
Keogh,  M.  W.,  269,  272,  302. 
Keppler,  C.  J.,  607,  616. 
Kerfoot,  Misses,  641. 
Kernan,  Sen.,  117,  391. 
Kerr,  A.,  433,  435,  504. 
Kerr,  C.,  390,  434,  435,  567. 
Kerr,  J.  B.,  351,  382,  434. 
Kerr,  Mrs.  J.  B.,  434. 
Kerr,  J.  L.,  435. 
Kerr,  K.,  433. 
Kerr,  Leeds,  435. 
Kerr,  Miss  L.  H.,  351,  380,  382. 
Kerr,  S.  b.,  127. 
Kerr,  Speaker,  394. 
Ketcham,  J.  H.,  8,  719. 
Ketner,  Judge,  318,  328. 
Key,  Postmaster  Gen.,  431,  433,  449. 
Keyes,  A.  S.  S.,  351,  387,  455. 
Keyser,  Lt.,  300. 
Kidd,    Maj.,    260-267,    271-277,    293,    294, 

312,  314,'  332. 
Kidder,  L.  S.,  741. 
Kidwell,  J.  L.,  386. 
Kidwell,  Misses,  340. 
Kilbourn,  H.,  690. 
Killburn,  H.  S.,  266,  282,  289,  292. 
Killgore,  C.  B.,  656. 
Killgore,  Gen.,  583,  585. 
Kilmer,  C.,  365. 
Kilpatrick,  Miss,  317. 
Kimball  Miss  J.,  77. 
Kimball,  R.  B.,  77,  297. 


773 


King,  — ,  156,  233. 

King,  Capt.,  544. 

King,  Gen.  H.  C.,  509,  526,  559,  566. 

King's  Palace,  6. 

Kirk,  Col.,  689. 

Kirk,  Maj.  E.  B.,  11,  284,  285. 

Kirkwood,  S.  J.,  213,  214,  334,  336,  426. 

Kischner,  G.,  190. 

"Knight  of  Fairfax,"  22. 

"Knight  of  the  Planet,"  24. 

"Knight  of  the  King,"  22. 

Knox,  T.  T.,  590. 

Koones,  F.,  386. 

Krounse,  W.  L.,  8. 

Lacy,  G.  W.,  633. 

Lagraw,  Dr.,  312. 

Lamar,  L.  Q.  C.,  574. 

Lamb,  J.,  720. 

Lamb,  Mrs.,  641. 

Lambie,  J.  B.,  6. 

Lamon,  M.,  614. 

Lamon,  Mrs.,  582. 

Lamon,  W.  H.,  32,  356,  361,  582. 

Lament,    Col.,    551,    555,    575,    658,    670, 

675. 

Lancaster,  C.  C.,  613,  663. 
Landon,  M.,  366. 
Lansburgh  Bros.,  6. 
Laredo,  Tex.,  601. 
Lamed,  C.  T.,  374,  386. 
Larner,  — ,  433. 
Larner,  F.  W.,  641. 
Larner,  Misses,  349. 
Larner,  R.  M.,  8. 
Lassiter,  W.,  504. 
Latham,  Dr.,  182,  188,  198-203,  209,  215, 

219. 

Latham,  Mrs.,  198,  199,  215. 
Lauffer,  S.,  355,  549,  550. 
Laufler,  Capt.,  253,  258,  259. 
Lawrence,  Fork,  210,  211,  212,  221. 
Lawson,  Capt.,  387. 
Lawton,  H.  W.,  589,  597,  598. 
Lay,  R.,  284-286. 
Lay,  T.,  571. 
Leach,  Gen.,  352,  384. 
Leakey,  W.  P.,  190. 
Leary,  J.  T.,  355. 
Leary,  P.,  12,  257,  259. 
Lebo,  T.  C.,  253,  255,  705,  707,  726,  733, 

740. 

Lee,  — ,  217,  218. 
Lee,  Capt.,  505. 
Lee,  C.  G.,  7,  643,  646. 
Lee,  D.  M.,  139,  144,  145,  148. 
Lee,  Father,  644. 
Lee,  Fitz.,  139,  393. 
Lee,  G.  W.,  148. 


Lee,  J.  G.  C.,  11. 
Lee,  J.  M.,  11. 

Lee,  Lt.,  262. 

Lee,  P.  L.,  350. 

Lee,  R.  E.,  25,  35,  43,  51,  53,  83,  136,  139, 

140,  142,  144,  145,  628. 
Leet,  Maj.,  225. 
Leiter,  — ,  544. 
Lemly,  H.  B.,  12. 
Lemon,  Col.,  558. 
L'Enfant,  P.  C.,  624. 
"Leopard,"  634. 
Leslie,  F.,  362. 
Lester,  Lt.,  163. 
Leupp,  F.  E.,  9. 
Levy,  J.  M.,  638,  697. 
Lewis,  — ,  208. 
Lewis,  B.  B.,  396-400,  404. 
Lewis,  C.,  149. 
Lewis,  Mrs.  E.  J.,  362. 
Lewis,  J.  F.,  357. 
Lewis'  Ranch,  206-210. 
Lewis,  W.  J.,  360,  365,  366. 
Liebenon,  Capt.,  137. 
Lieber,  Gen.  G.  N.,  734,  736. 
Liliuo  Kalani,  Queen,  693,  703,  751. 
Lincoln,  A.,   34,    66,   114,    115,    143,    145, 

160,  579,  580. 
Lincoln,  Col.,  453. 
Lincoln,  H.  D.,  521. 
Lincoln,  Miss,  631. 
Lincoln,  Mrs.,  453. 
Lincoln,  Mrs.  M.  D.,  641. 
Lincoln,  K.   T.,   504,   511,   513,   532,   536, 

538,  539,  541,  542,  543. 
Lincoln,  S.  H.,  11. 
Lindsay,  Lt.,  311. 
Litchfield,  H.  G.,  11,  223. 
Little  Raven,  310,  313,  314. 
Little,  T.,  351,  480,  482. 
Lloyd,  E.,  12. 
Lloyd,  Gov.,  563,  569. 
Lock,  — ,  528. 
Lockwood,  Dan.,  643,  700. 
Logan,  J.  A.,  339,  357,  369,  374,  375,  400- 

3,  412,  413,  419,  427,  514,  555,  559. 
Long,  — ,  519. 
Long,  O.  F.,  12. 
Longstreet,  Gen.,  744. 
Lord,  F.,  363,  364. 
Lord,  J.,  366. 
Lord,  T.  W.,  12. 
Loring,  Dr.,  546. 
Loughborough,  R.  H.  R.,  12,  487. 
Louisville  Cour.-Jour.,  8,  418. 
Love,  Dr.,  638. 
Love,  Elsie,  638. 
Love,  Maj.,  638. 
Luddington,  M.  L,  10,  159,  356,  703. 


774 


Lucllow,  W.,  10,  574. 
Luitewitz,  A.  C.,  321. 
Lyman,  C.,  694,  702. 
Lyman,  Mrs.,  77. 
Lyman,  W.,  11,  669,  755. 
Lynch,  J.,  574. 
Lyon,  Corp.,  200. 
Lyons,  II.  T.,  189. 

McAdoo,  W.,  694. 

McAfee,  J.  B.,  252. 

McAllister,  R.,  421. 

McAuley,  Mrs.  E.  C.,  641. 

McBride,  W.  C.,  8. 

McCabe,  J.  B.,  577. 

McCallaster,  W.,  135. 

McCarras,  L.  E.,  717. 

McCarthy,  D.,  352,  539. 

McCartney,  D.  P.,  421. 

McClellan,  G.  B.,  59,  83,  141. 

McClellan,  Maj.,  504,  505. 

McClelland,  E.'  L.,  7,  643,  663,  673. 

McClerry,  Gen.,  501,  530. 

McCrary,  G.  W.,  420,  428,  475,  549. 

McCreary,  J.  B.,  656. 

McCrohan,  E.,  508,  519. 

McCullom,  S.,  190. 

McCune,  Capt.,  99. 

McDermott,  G.,  269,  421. 

McDonald,  A.,  366. 

McDonald,  A.  M.,  344. 

McDonald,  J.,  719. 

McDonald,  J.  B.,  12,  303,  526,  749. 

McDowell,  L,  43,  47,  49,  50,  51,  54. 

McDowell,  J.  B.,  529. 

McEwen,  J.  C.,  365. 

McFarland,  H.  B.  F.,  8. 

McFarland,  Miss,  414. 

McFeely,  R.,  10,  578. 

McGowan,  T.,  85. 

McGregor,  J.  F.,  362. 

McGrew,  Col.,  585. 

McGruder,  Miss,  613. 

Mclntire,  Capt.,  94. 

Mclntire,  W.  C.,  635. 

Mclntosh,  Col.,  97. 

McKean,  B.,  190. 

McKeever,   Gen.   C.,   230,   249,    269,    291, 

293,  302,  504,  619. 
McKelden,  J.  C.,  421. 
McKenzie,  L.,  41,  338. 
McKibben,  C.,  323,  324. 
McKillip,  Sergt.,  80. 
McKinley,  Wm.,  713,  726. 
McTCnew,  W.,  6. 
McLane,  Gov.,  616,  621. 
McLaughlin,    Maj.,    454,     455,    456     458 

460,  461,  462. 
McLean,  J.   R.,   545,   569,    571,   572,    573, 


588. 

McLean,  W.,  545,  547,  571,  581,  586. 
McMahon,  M.,  559,  634,  635. 
McMartin,  J.,  460. 
McMichel,  Capt.,  109,  110. 
McMillan,  B.,  8,  657. 
McMillan,  J.,  7,  587. 
McMillan,  Mrs.,  587. 
McXally,  \.,  12. 
McNeil,  B.,  148. 
McNutt,  J.,  258,  421. 
McOmber,  G.  E.,  366. 
McPherson,  J.  R.,  535,  542,  549,  554,  575, 

586,  651. 
McQuade,  Col.,  116. 

MacArthur,  A.,  10,  699,  704. 

MacDougall,  C.  D.,  132,  379,  390,  445. 

Machen,  J.  P.,  29. 

MacK,  O.  A.,  72. 

Mackall  &  Maedel,  7. 

Mackall,  D.  S.,  644,  683. 

Mackey,  Misses,  340,  351. 

Mackin,  Father,  644. 

Maddox,~Dr.  A.  S.,  645,  682. 

Maddox,  S.,  547,  555. 

Mag-ruder,  J.,  544. 

Mahaney,  R.  B.,  719. 

Maish,   Col.,   352,   373,  414-417,   431,   433, 

436,  437. 
Maish,  L.  P.,  8. 
Mallan,  C.  E.,  356. 
Malone,  F.  M.,  68. 
Manderson,  C.  F.,  652. 
Mann,  Capt.,  283,  284. 
Mann,  Mr.  and  Mrs.,  19. 
Manning,  Sec.,  543,  544. 
Mansfield,  J.  K.,  10.  35-39,  43. 
Manuel,  Prof.,  366. 
March,  — ,  405. 
Mare  Island,  560. 
Markland,  Col.,  384. 
Marr,  — ,  583. 
Marsh,  B.  F.,  8,  704. 
Marsh,  Capt.,  62,  145. 
Marsh,  Mrs.,  641. 
Marshall  House,  21,  40,  267. 
Marshall,  J.,  248. 
Marshall,  J.  W.,  656. 
Martin,  — ,  563,  565,  566. 
Martin,  A.  N.,  657. 
Martin,  B.,  190. 
Martin,  J.,  652. 
Martin,  M.  C.,  482,  491,  498. 
Martin,  T.  S.,  7,  718,  749. 
Martindale,  Gen.,  84,  116. 
"Mary  Ann,"  18. 
Mason,  J.  S.,  461,  536. 
Massey,  — ,  558. 


775 


Massey,  Miss  C.,  149. 

Massey,  W.  D.,  147. 

Masterson,  T.  P.,  248. 

Mathews,  J.  A.,  9. 

Mathey,  E.  G.,  11. 

Matson,  — ,  576. 

Matson,  Hon.,  641. 

Matterson,  B.  T.,  512. 

Matthews,  W.,  603. 

Maus,  Capt.,  631. 

Maxey,  S.  B.,  7,  431,  433,  436,  442,  444, 

478,  509,  744. 

Maxon,  Lt.,  12,  312,  313,  454,  482. 
Maxwell,  Gen.,  694. 
Maynadier,  W.  M.,  11. 
Meacle,  G.  G.,  10,  88,  91,  92,  95,  97,  102, 

104,   105,    106,   133,   138,   140,    141,   346, 

347. 

Means,  — ,  547. 

Medicine  Bluff  Creek,  292,  295. 
Meaker,  — ,  407. 
Megrew,  Col.,  695. 
Meig's  Ranch,  205,  208,  210,  211. 
Meiklejohn,  Sec.,  706,  723. 
Meinell,  H.,  302. 
Mendenhall,  J.,  598. 
Meredith,  E.  E.,  656. 
Merriam,  Mrs.,  569. 
Merriam,  Sen.,  403. 
Merriam,  W.  R.,  570. 
Merrick,  Col.,  632. 
Merrick,  Judge,  545. 
Merrill,  L.,  2,  298,  300,  302,  318,  319,  323, 

332,   333,   343,   347,   407,   408,   550,    551, 

552,  553,  599. 
Metzger,  C.  W.,  8. 
Meyer,  A.,  656. 
Michael,  — ,  267. 
Middleton,  Dr.,  491,  498,  527. 
Miles,  N.  A.,  10,  98,  111-113,  121-127,  133, 

298,    301-303,    375,    409,    535,    541,    561, 

577,   663,   669,   677,   696,   704,   706,   709, 

712,  719,  733,  737. 
Miles,  Mrs.  N.  A.,  298. 
Miller,  Capt.,  98,  104. 
Miller,  H.,  661. 
Miller,  Miss  J.,  362. 
Miller,  L.  B.  G.,  386. 
Miller,  M.,  633. 
Miller,  O.  L.,  657. 
Miller,  S.,  633. 
Miller,  Sergt.,    171,    179,    184,    185,    188, 

189,  195,  200,  595. 
Milliken,  S.  L.,  656. 
Milnes,  W.,  339. 
Mills,  — ,  555. 
Mills,  J.  S.,  177,  190. 
Mills,  Ma.j.,  696. 
Millspaugh,  Col.,  459,  499. 


Miner,  C.  W.,  481. 

Miner,  G.  S.,  148. 

Minor's  Hill,  44. 

Mitchell  Bros.,  360. 

Mitchell,  Gen.,  297. 

Mitchell,  G.  H.,  366. 

Mitchell,  J.,  60. 

Mitchell,  J.  A.,  344. 

Mitchell,  J.  H.,  652. 

Mitchell,  M.  C.,  6. 

Mitchell,  R.  B.,  421,  429. 

Mitchell,  W.  G.,  503,  671. 

Mitchell,  W.   S.,  95,  100,   101,  261,  293, 

307,  309,  316. 
Mitkiewicz,  Count,  641. 
Mix,  J.,  165,  171,  183,  190-205,  209-223. 
Mix,  Mrs.,  198,  212. 
Mizner,  J.  K.,  553. 
Moale,  E.,  11. 
Mock,  H.  J.,  9. 
Money,  H.  D.,  7,  656. 
Monroe,  Mrs.,  641. 
Montgomery,  J.,  224,  264. 
Monument  Station,  245. 
Moore,  Gen.,  578,  595. 
Moore,  H.  L.,  657. 
Moore,  J.,  10. 
Moore,  Maj.,  242-245,  310,  316,  337,  386, 

402,  421,  535,  557,  658. 
Moore,  "Reddy,"  741. 
Moore,  W.,  190. 
Moore,  W.  B.,  421,  424,  433. 
More,  — ,  215,  216,  219. 
More's  Ranch,  215,  216. 
Morey,  F.,  8,  358,  367,  368,  403,  546. 
Morgan,  — ,  610. 
Morgan,  Miss  A.,  362,  367. 
Morgan,  D.  B.,  544,  545. 
Morgan,  F.  P.,  8. 
Morgan,  J.  T.,  7,  654. 
Morgan,  Misses,  349. 
Morgan,  M.  R.,  101,  103,  105,  108,  110, 

258. 

Morley,  Gen.,  384. 
Morrill,  Sen.,  442,  652. 
Morris,  — ,  384. 
Morris,  C.,  302. 
Morrissey,  Mrs.,  367. 
Morrison,  D.  L.,  540. 
Morrison,  J.  N.,  704. 
Morrison,  J.  S.,  351. 
Morrison,  J.  T.,  12. 
Morrison,  Lt.,  480,  505. 
Morrison,  P.,  269. 
Morrow,  A.  P.,  11. 
Morrow,  J.,  504. 
Morrows,  Col.,  558. 
Morse,  A.  P.,  635. 
Morse,  E.  A.,  656. 


776 


Morse,  J.  S.,  365. 

Morton,  L.  P.,  548,  586,  597. 

Morton,  O.  P.,  370. 

Mosby,  Gen.,  147. 

Moses,  — ,  550. 

Moses,  W.  B.,  640. 

Mosher,  Lt.,  480,  483. 

Mott,  Gen.,  104,  105,  409. 

Moxley,  — ,  580. 

Moylan,  M.,  274. 

Muhlenberg,  J.  C.,  11. 

Mullet,  A.  B.,  557. 

Mullins,  M.,  269. 

Muncaster,  Dr.,  391. 

Munson's  Hill,  65. 

Murray,  — ,  531. 

Murray,  C.,  248. 

Murray,  Col.,  679. 

Murray,  T.  J.,  148,  149. 

Murphy,  E.,  654,  714. 

Murphy,  Mrs.,  702. 

Mussey,  H.,  518,  519. 

Musson,  Serg-t.,  633. 

Musson,  T.  H.,  120,  127. 

Musson,  W.,  344. 

Muth  &  Co.,  6. 

Myer,  Col.,  142. 

Myer,  P.,  190. 

Myers,  — ,  387. 

Myers,  J.    W.,    255,    257,    276,    289,    292, 

306,  311,  357. 
Myers,  L.,  344. 
Myrick,  J.  R,  598. 
Myrick,  Lt.,  120,  138. 

Napoleon  Bonaparte,  18. 

Nash,  W.  H.,  10,  722. 

Nash's  Ranch,  464. 

Neg-ley,  Gen.,  384,  385. 

Neil],  J.  P.  W..   181,  182,   183,   189,   190. 

191,   192,    193,   194,    195,    196,    199     200* 

201,  204. 

Neill,  T.  H.,  214,  481,  482. 
Nelson,  — ,  615. 
Nelson,  A.  D.,  2,  297,  303,  306,  309,  312; 

313,  314,  318,  332,  426,  671,  673. 
Nelson,  Capt.,  137. 
Nesmett,  T.  W.,  379,  445. 
New,  J.  C.,  513. 
Newberg-  News,  8. 
Newcomb,  J.,  492. 
New  Fort  Hays,  237-240. 
Newlands,  F.  G.,  607,  611,  613,  620,  639, 

656,  683. 

Newman,  — ,  196. 
Newmans,  Miss,  340. 
Newton,  — ,  290. 

New  York  Army  &  Navy  Journal,  9. 
New  York  Commercial,  8. 


New  York  Evening  Post,  9. 

New  York  Herald,  8,  9. 

New  York  News,  8. 

New  York  Standard  Zeituiig1,  8. 

New  York  Sun,  9. 

New  York  Times,  9. 

New  York  Tribune,  9. 

New  York  World,  9. 

Nichol,  Mrs.,  560. 

Nichols,  Gen.,  229,  262. 

Nixon,  — ,  566. 

Noah;  J.  J.,  9,  415,  452,  457,  458. 

Noble,  — ,  229,  317. 

Noble,  B.,  491. 

Nolan,  Col.,  388. 

Norris,  J.  L.,  635. 

Norris,  Maj.,  162. 

Mrrth,  Anna,  91,  113. 

North  Forks,  247. 

Norton,  Lt.,  183. 

Norvell,  S.  T.,  351,  387. 

Norwood,  Capt.,  182-191,  195-203. 

Noud,  Mrs.  and  Miss,  641. 

Nourse,  — ,  556. 

Noyes,  S.  B.,  345. 

Nucent,  T.  M.,  87. 

Nye,  F.  E.,  11. 

Nye,  J.,  345. 

Nye,  J.  W.,  338,  358. 

Oakes,  J.,  11. 

O'Beirne,  Col.,  480. 

O'Brien,  A.  L.,  552. 

O'Brien,  M.,  302,  470. 

Ocean  City,  6. 

Ochiltree,  T.  P.,  681,  743. 

O'Connell,  J.  J.,  12,  495. 

O'Connor,  H.  O.,  345. 

O'Driscoll,  Maj.,  694. 

O'Hara,  J.,  598. 

O'Laug-hlin,  C.,  9. 

Older,  O.  C.,  15. 

Oliver,  H.,  127,  668. 

Oneida  Free  Press,  127. 

O'Neil,  C.,  344. 

O'Neil,  J.  H.,  655. 

O'Neil,  J.  J.,  655. 

Opdyke,  Gen.,  711. 

Orcutt,  J.,  13,  14. 

Ord,  E.  O.  C.,  12. 

Ord,  Gen.,   457,   458,   461,   468,   475,   480, 

481,  484,  496. 
Orleman,  — ,  387,  462. 
Orth,  — ,  575,  639. 
Orths,  — ,  568. 
Osburn,  D.  W.,  633. 
Osterhold,  W.,  189. 
Otey,  P.  J.,  721. 
Ottaby,  — ,  283,  284. 


777 


Outhwaite,  J.  H.,  655. 
Ovenshine,  Capt.,  250,  253,  258,  259. 
Owen,  R.  B.,  162. 
Owens,  S.,  37. 

Oxford    Military    Academy,    564,    566, 
567,  573. 

Paddock,  Sen.,  447. 

Page,  C.  H.,  657. 

Page,  Maj.,  234,  297,  303,  306,  308-312. 

Pagh,  C.,  190. 

Palmer,  A.  W.,  366. 

Palmer,  Col.,  118. 

Palmer,  I.  N.,  10,  163,  169,  194,  195,  416, 

419,  448. 

Palmer,  J.  H.,  12,  529. 
Palmer,  Pres.,  562. 
Palmer,  W.,  384,  390. 
Palo  Duro  Ranch,  295. 
Parker,  — ,  456,  682. 
Parker,  A.  X.,  366. 
Parker,  D.,  258,  300,  303. 
Parker,  1.,  89,  94,  100,  106,  598. 
Parker,  Miss,  561. 
Parker,  Mrs.  M.  M.,  687. 
Parker,  S.,  751. 
Parks,  — ,  230. 
Parkman,  — ,  699. 
Parsons,  C.  C.,  257-259. 
Paschal,  T.  M.,  481,  482,  493,  656. 
Pascon,  L.,  485. 
Patrick's  Station,  138. 
Patterson,  Dr.,  352. 
Patterson,  J.  H.,  458,  469. 
Patterson,  R.,  8. 
Patton,  Sen.,  554. 
Paul,  Gen.,  555. 
Payne,  — ,  144. 
Payne,  Sen.,  544. 
Peace  Commissioners,  301. 
Peale,  Lt.,  194. 
Pearse,  Dr.,  282. 
Pear's  Spring,  518. 
Pearson,  Miss  A.,  638. 
Peck,  Judge,  692. 
Penneypacker,  G.,  11. 
Penny,  G.  C.,  11. 
Penrose,  Mrs.,  285,  286. 
Penrose,  W.  H.,  10,  278-289,  295,  424. 
Pepoon,  S.,  269,  351. 
Perry,  Gen.,  263. 
Perkins,  G.  C.,  654,  722. 
Perkins,  Sen.,  696. 
Perrin,  E.  O.,  362. 
Petersburg,  97,  113,  119,  125,  130,  135, 

136. 

Pet  t  us,  E.  W.,.7. 
Phelps,  W.  W.,  550,  574,  583. 
Phila.  Enquirer,  8. 


Phila.  Ledger,  8,  589. 

Phila.  Press,  8. 

Phila.  Record,  8. 

Philey,  Capt.,  270,  317. 

Phill,  Prof.,  226,  227. 

Phillips,  — ,  663. 

Phillips,  Col.,  263,  638. 

Phillips,  J.  W.,  656. 

Phillips,  Miss  M.,  638. 

Phillips,  R.  A.,  386,  415. 

Philley,  A.  S.,  247,  252. 

Philp,  J.  B.,  641. 

Philp,  J.  F.,  641. 

Piatt,  Don.,  405. 

Pierce,  Col.,  678. 

Pierce,  Gen.,  409. 

Piers,  — ,  693. 

Pike,  Capt.,  76,  77. 

Pike,  Gen.,  559. 

Pine  Bluffs,  211. 

Pinner,  Gen.,  746. 

Pitney  &  Bradford,  685. 

Pittman,  Mrs.,  366. 

Pittman,  Sergt.,  240. 

Pittsburg  Com.  Gazette,  8. 

Pittsburg  Dispatch,  8. 

Pittsburg  Leader,  8. 

Plato,  Col.,  503. 

Platt,  J.  H.,  344,  358. 

Plowman,  Col.,  393. 

Plumb,  P.  B.,  442,  446. 

Plumley,  S.  M.,  517. 

Point  Lookout,  77,  80. 

Poland,  J.  S.,  11,  323,  328. 

Poland,  L.   P.,   338,   344,   345,   357,   408, 

425,  599. 

Pole  Creek,  205,  210,  211. 
Polkinghorn,  Miss,  340. 
Pollard,  Dr.,  92. 
Pollock,  — ,  545. 
Pomeroy,  S.  C.,  339,  348,  358, 
Pond  Creek,  162,  163,  165,  285. 
Poole,  D.  W.  C.,  469,  473. 
Poor,  Col.,  693. 
Poore,  W.,  730. 
Pope,  Dr.,  411. 
Pope,  Gen.,  101,  160. 
Poppert,  G.,  568. 
Poppert,  O.,  568. 
Porter,  C.,  11. 
Porter,  Capt.,  595. 
Porter,  Col.,  94. 
Porter,  F.  J.,  10. 
Porter,  H.,  692. 
Portis,  D.  S.,  478,  479,  488. 
Portsmouth,  N.  H.,  72-74. 
Posey,  Corp.,  237. 
Post,  — ,  550. 
Post,  Mrs.,  561. 


BANCROFT 
LIBRARY 


778 


Potter,  C.,  433. 

Potter,  Col.,  160,  161. 

Potter,  Gen.,  209,  212,  214,  223. 

Potts,  Capt.,  226. 

Powell,  Capt.,  35. 

Powell,  D.,  148. 

Powell,  J.  L.,  506,  524. 

Powell,  W.,  148. 

Power,  T.  C.,  654. 

Powers,  — ,  279,  284. 

Powers,  H.  S.,  366. 

Powlett,  Capt.,  535. 

Poynter,  Lt.,  64. 

Pratt,  R.  H.,  351. 

Prentiss,  W.  C.,  7,  688. 

Prescott,  — ,  434. 

Preston,  E.  R.,  77. 

Preston,  S.,  574. 

Price,  — ,  462. 

Price,  Gen.,  263. 

Price,  Gov.,  541. 

Price,  J.  W.,  243-247,  252,  424. 

Price,  Lt.,  658. 

Price,  Dr.  M.  F.,  462,  464,  467,  470,  472, 

476,  486. 

Price,  T.  L.,  264. 
Priley,  A.  J.,  248. 
Prin fop,  J.  J.,  641. 

Proctor,  R.,  592,  593,  598,  648,  654,  705. 
Prnden,  Col.,  586. 
Pug-h,  Sen.,  546. 
Pulizzi,  Miss  B.,  641. 
Pulizzi,  Mrs.,  641. 
Pulitzer,  J.,  352. 
Pumpkin  Creek,  224. 
Pyron,  May,  744. 

Quinby,  H.  B.,  455,  459,  476. 

RadclifPe,  Dr.,  546,  694. 

Raclford,  — ,  639. 

Rains,  Gen.,  744. 

Ralston  &  Siddons,  7,  663,  684,  688. 

Ralston,  J.  H.,  608,  646,  681,  683. 

Ramsay,  — ,  522. 

Ramsey,  A.,  358. 

Rand,  C.  F.,  356,  374. 

Randall,  C.  S.,  655. 

Randall,  E.  L.,  11,  269,  324,  327,  328. 

Randall,  G.  M.,  11. 

Randall,  S.,  396,  397,  400,  433. 

Randall,  T.,  210. 

Randolph,  — ,  543. 

Randolph,  Sen.,  415,  433,  436. 

Raney,  — ,  447. 

RatelifFe,  Mrs.  N.,  153. 

Rawlins,  J.  N.,  88,  89,  98. 

Rawlston,  Capt.,  298. 

Ray,  — ,  457. 


Ray,  Capt.,  216,  219. 

Reardon,  W.  W.,  365. 

Red  wood,  — ,  559. 

Reed,  — ,  290. 

Reed,  P.,  10,  274,  303. 

Reed,  W.,  730. 

Reeder,  F.  W.,  73,  74. 

Reno,  M.  A.,  549,  550. 

Reynolds,  E.,  360. 

Reynolds,  St.  J.,  247-252. 

Rhea,  J.  S.,  720. 

Rice,  B.  F.,  390. 

Rice,  E.,  11. 

Rice,  F.  R.,  71. 

Richards,  Serg-t.,  463. 

Richards,  W.  V.,  12,  491. 

Richardson,  F.  A.,  8. 

Richardson,  John,  703. 

Richardson,  Judge,  434. 

Richardson,  W.,  671. 

Richardson,  W.  K.,  8. 

Kichland  Valley,  520. 

Ridenour,  C.  H.,  9. 

Ridg-eley,  E.  R.,  8,  738. 

Ridley,  Corp.,  463. 

Riles,  — ,  179. 

Riley,  Lt.,  270,  271. 

Riley,  O.  N.,  461. 

Ripley,  H.  L.,  471,  480. 

Ripley,  T.  A.,  81. 

Ritchie,  D.  F.,  360,  363. 

Rixey,  J.  F.,  657. 

Roach,  — ,  651. 

Roach,  W.  N.,  714. 

Robb,  Sen.,  572. 

Robbins,  Gen.,  406. 

Robe,  Capt.,  460. 

Roberts,  — ,  465. 

Roberts,  Mrs..  383. 

Roberts,  W.  H.,  8. 

Robertson,  — ,  255. 

"Robertson,  B.,  535. 

Robertson,  Dr..  110. 

Robertson.  T.  J.,  421. 

Robeson,  Sec.,  547. 

Robinson,   A.  G..  251.  483. 

Robinson,  G.  F.,  11.  478. 

"Robinson,  G.  T.,  350. 

"Robinson,  J.,  248. 

"Robinson,  Lt,,  226. 

"Robinson.  Dr.  T..  641. 

"Robson,  Stuart,  663. 

"Roekford.  A.  F.,  512. 

"Rockwell,  A.  F..  11,  503,  580. 

Rodenboup-b,  T.  F.,  163,  169,  221    427 

"Roe,  Lt,,  225. 

Roessle,  — ,  554. 

Rogers,  — ,  258,  430.  433,  447,  449. 

Rogers,  A.,  12,  291,  293. 


779 


Rogers,  A.  J.,  364,  366. 

Rog-ers,  Col.,  578. 

Rogers,  J.  F.,  610. 

Rollins,  J.  A.,  10. 

Rollins,  Sen.,  705. 

Romeo,  310. 

Rooms,  C.  M.,  471. 

Rooney,  — ,  501. 

Rosecrans,  W.  S.,  10,  538. 

Rosekraiis,  J.  A.,  363,  581,  586. 

Roseland,  Va.,  157. 

Ross,  C.  G.,  339. 

Ross,  Gen.,  384. 

Ross,  J.  W.,  657. 

Ross,  S.,  344. 

Rounds,  — ,  595. 

Rouzer,  — ,  9. 

Ruck,  Gov.,  578. 

Rucker,  D.  H.,  10. 

Rudkin,  Mrs.,  682. 

Uu<>-g-les,  — ,  301. 

Rubles,  Gen.  G.  P.,  674,  685,  698,  702, 

707,  729. 

Runkle,  B.  P.,  10,  430. 
Rush,  Mrs.,  504. 
Rush,  R.  H.,  70,  85. 
Russell,  — ,  663. 
Russell,  Maj.,  500,  505,  506,  527. 
Russell  Springs,  266. 
Russell,  W.  T.,  648. 
Rutherford,  A.,  345,  355. 
Rutherford,  A.  R.,  386. 
Rutherford,  R.  G.,  11. 
Ryan,  Colv  610. 
Ryan,  Gen.,  352,  368,  372. 
Ryan,  W.  S.,  81. 
Rye  Beach,  75. 

Sabin,  Sen.,  554,  555,  557,  574. 

Sails,  — .  465. 

Saks  &  Co.,  6. 

Sale,  E.  O.,  574. 

Salem  Church,  92. 

"Sam,"  20. 

Sampson,  G.  W.,  344. 

San  Antonio,  530. 

San  Antonio  Evening-  Light,  499. 

San  Antonio  Express,  8. 

San  Francisco  Chronicle,  9. 

San  Francisco  Examiner,  9. 

Sands,  — ,  572. 

Sands,  L.,  622. 

Sanzousi,  S.  E.,  189. 

Saratoga,  366. 

Sarvis,  J.  A.,  9. 

Sarvis,  J.  M.,  8. 

Saunders,  Miss,  459. 

Saunders,  Mrs.,  632. 

Saunders,  W.  H.,  7. 


Savage,  — ,  560. 

Savage,  Mrs.,  560. 

Sawyer,  P.  F.,  358,  690. 

S.axton,  Lt.,  235. 

Saxton,  R.,  10. 

Scales,  — ,  472. 

Scales,  Gov.,  403. 

Schade,  Miss,  641. 

Schade,  Mrs.  H.,  641. 

Schaffer,  — ,  595. 

Schermerhorn,  S.  J.,  655. 

Schmidt,  Miss,  703. 

Schneider,  Capt.,  300. 

Schneider,  T.  F.,  7. 

Schneider,  W.  F.,  682,  687. 

Schofield,  Col.,  508,  670. 

Schofield,  Gen.,  1,  291,  297,  302,  303, 
309,  316,  317,  318,  322,  332,  335,  386, 
593,  594,  599,  602,  603,  604,  616,  621, 
637,  647,  650,  653,  658,  659,  660,  663, 
665,  670,  673,  675,  709,  712,  724. 

Schreiner,  H.,  12,  461. 

Schull,  Col.,  504. 

Schurz,  C..  433. 

Schwan,  T.,  590,  598,  726,  731,  733,  734, 
735,  736. 

Sclater.  T.  L.,  673. 

Scott,  Capt.,  168,  177,  296. 

Scott,  Dr.,  685,  699. 

Scott,  D.  M.,  12,  701. 

Scott,  IX  W.,  256. 

Scott,  G.  W.,  135. 

Scott,  Win.  L.,  561,  576. 

Scott,  W.  S..  33,  35,  36.  48,  49,  141,  142. 

Scripps-McRae  Press  Association,  8. 

Scurry,  W.  R.,  744. 

Sedgwick,  J.,  10,  88. 

Segar,  J.,  156.  157. 

Sergeant.  J.  C.,  190. 

Selkirk,  Ma.i.,  133. 

Senior,  C.  F.,  190. 

Settle,  T.,  657,  693. 

Seville.  Capt..  694. 

Seward,  F.  W.,  430,  446. 

Seward,  W.  H.,  27,  30.  32,  42,  44,  47,  49, 
50,  52,  53,  55,  57,  60,  62,  64,  157,  163, 
226. 

Sewell,  F.  D.,  71,  72. 

Seymour,  Gov.,  118. 

Shade,  F.,  9. 

Shaf ter,  G.  W.  R.,  10,  490,  496,  508,  510, 
647,  722,  757. 

Sharp,  Col.,  241. 

Sharp,  F.  D.,  12. 

Sharp,  Gen.,  685. 

Sharp's  Camp,  241. 

Sharp's  Woods,  206. 

Shaw,  — ,  100,  102. 

Shaw,  Col.,  503. 


Shaw,  J.  B.,  512. 

Shaw,  W.  B.,  8. 

Shawnee  Creek,  177. 

Shaw's  Garden,  562. 

Shaws,  W.  R,,  421. 

Shear,  — ,  631. 

Sheehy,  Miss  A.,  641. 

Sheehy,  Mrs.  D.,  641. 

Shehan,  Mrs.  G.,  641. 

Schellabarg-er  &  Wilson,  7. 

Shellabarger,  Lt.,  285,  298,  301. 

Shellaberg-er,  Judge,  541,  590. 

Shelton,  Mrs.,  92,  93. 

Shepherd,  — ,  182. 

Shepherd,  Corp.,  247. 

Shepherd,  A.  R.,  370,  392,  393,  408,  412, 

413,  433,  480,  572. 
Sheppard,  Lt.,  300. 
Sheridan  City,  Kan.,  270,  274,  294. 
Sheridan,  A.,  257,  259,  272,  296. 
Sheridan,  M.,  262,  565. 
Sheridan,  Gen.,   92,    262,    265,    269,    270, 

272,   274,   275,   276,   279,   287,   292,   205, 

551,  575,  577,  578. 
Sherman  &  Grant,  393,  394.  * 
Sherman,  John,  7,  346,  393,  433,  542. 
Sherman,  J.  S.,  717. 
Sherman,  Miss  M.,  337,  340. 
Sherman,  W.  T.,  10,  174,  229,  234,  '26J. 

262,   337,   345,   346,   381,   382,   410,   504, 

511,  537,  558,  559,  561,  666. 
Sherwood,  G.  P.,  71,  72. 
Sherwood,  T.,  365,  366. 
Shields,  — ,  509. 
Shoemaker,  L.  P.,  7. 
Shoup,  G.  L.,  7,  679. 
Shownboug-h  Creek,  172,  173. 
Shurbon,  Col.,  160. 
Shreve,  Mrs.,  435. 
Shriver,  PI,  347. 
Shriver,  J.  S.,  8,  87. 
Shrivers,  — ,  257. 
Shroeder,  R.,  8. 
Sibler,  J.  C.,  657. 
Sibley,  H.  H.,  744. 
Sickles,  D.  E.,  9,  10,  577,  694,  699,  716, 

727. 

Singles,  Corp.,  465,  472. 
Sinking  Water,  172,  173. 
Simmons,  Corp.,  129. 
Simmons,  W.  M.,  467,  473. 
Simpson,  R.  F.,  148. 
Skimmerhorn's  Ranch,  294,  298. 
Slack,  Col.,  583. 
Slater,  W.  H.,  386. 
Smalley,  E.  V.,  632. 
Smart,  C.,  11. 
Smart,  Dr.  C.,  .99,  104,  669. 
Smeade,  J.  A.,  37. 


Smith,  A.  J.,  137,  231-235,  250,  588,  663, 

686,  710. 

Smith,  C.  C.,  11,  255. 
Smith,  C.  H.,  11. 
Smith,  C.  L.,  633. 
Smith,  E.,  190. 
Smith,  E.  B.,  8. 
Smith,  E.  M.,  413. 
Smith,  Mrs.  E.  P.,  362. 
Smith,  F.,  248. 
Smith,  J.  A.,  310,  344. 
Smith,  J.  C.,  625. 
Smith,  J.  H.,  569,  571. 
Smith,  J.  R.,  491,  498,  527,  528,  531,  571. 
Smith,  J.  S.,  702. 
Smith,  L.,  598. 
Smith,  M.  A.,  656,  719. 
Smith,  M.  L.,  392. 
Smith,  Paymaster,  171. 
Smith,  R.,  11,  588. 
Smith,  Wm.,  10. 
Smith,  'W.  M.,  366. 
Smith,  W.  W.,  8. 
Smithers,    Lt.,    275,    276,    278,    289,    290, 

292,   306,   387,   454,   455,   457,   458,   462, 

474,  505. 

Smithmyer,  Col.,  690. 
Smithsonian  Institute,  274. 
Smoky  Hill,  294. 
Smoky  River,  266. 
Smoot,  Miss  L.,  149. 
Smoot,  S.  S.,  421. 
Smyth,  Gen.,  136. 
Snell,  — ,  414. 
Snyder,  S.  W.,  68. 

Society  Army  of  Potomac,  346,  347. 
Solomon  City,  Kan.,  162. 
Somborn,  E/K.,  9. 
Somers,  P.  J.,  657. 
"Sophie  Sparkle,"  366. 
Sotherland,  Wm.,  247. 
Soule,  — ,  575,  581. 
Soule,  Mrs.,  575. 
South  Forks,  247. 
Southard,  W.  J.,  433. 
Southg-ate,  R.  H.,  365. 
Spaulding-,  E.  J.,  162,  552. 
Spencer,  Capt.,  223,  286,  495,  496. 
Spencer,  G.  E.,  379,  399,  400,  402,  403, 

405,  408,  441. 
Spencer,  Senr.,   412,  413,  415,  442,  445, 

451,  452,  457. 

Spencer,  T.  S.,  Jr.,  351,  366. 
Sperry,  L.,  656. 
Spinner,  F.  E.,  344,   345,   346,   355,   358, 

378,  386,  617. 
Spinola,  Gen.,  583. 
Spintie,  F.,  71. 
Spooner,  Senr.,  696. 


"Spotted  Horse,"  170. 

Spottsylvania  Court  House,  89,  110. 

Spriggs,  Corp.,  237. 

Springer,  Gen.,  400,  585. 

Springer,  G.  H.,  252. 

Springer,  I.,  247. 

Springer,  W.  M.,  655. 

Springfield,  111.,  160. 

Spooner,  J.  C.,  7,  718. 

Squire,  Dr.,  235. 

Squire,  Lt.,  576. 

Squire,  W.  C.,  621,  651,  722. 

St.  John's  Academy,  569,  570. 

St.  Louis,  Mo.,  562,  576,  581. 

St.  Louis  Globe-Democrat,  8. 

Stacy,  M.  H.,  120. 

Stafford,  Father,  644,  649. 

Stall,  F.  M.,  247. 

Stambaugh,  C.  B.,  226. 

Stanford,  Sen.,  543,  575,  620. 

Stanley,  Adml.,  433,  434,  450. 

Stanley,  D.  M.,  468,  469,  473. 

Stanton,  E.  M.,  157,  213,  712. 

Stanton,  F.  P.,  344,  345,  348,  355,  386. 

Stanton,  Gov.,  541. 

Stanton,  T.  H.,  10,  144. 

Stanwood,  J.  R.,  74. 

Staples,  Col.,  572,  573,  595. 

Starks,  — ,  501. 

Stealey,  H.  W.,  8. 

Stealey,  O.  O.,  8. 

Stedman,  B.,  121,  127. 

Steedman,  J.  B.,  709. 

Steen,  E.,  258,  269. 

Stellwagen,  E.  J.,  611,  613. 

Sternberg,  Dr.,  266,  271,  274,  694. 

Sternberg,  Mrs.,  234. 

Sterrett,  Rev.  Dr.,  609. 

Stevens,  H.  C.,  8,  702. 

Stevens,  M.  T.,  655. 

Stevens,  T.,  271. 

Stevenson,  A.  E.,  652. 

Stevenson,  J.  C.,  344. 

Stewart,  -  ,  433. 

Stewart,  D.,  624. 

Stewart,  J.  N.,  675. 

Stewart,  W.   M.,   7,   408,   544,   605,   606, 

609,  611,  616,  621,  652,  696,  722. 
Stewartsville,  Mo.,  568. 
Stierlin,  Mrs.  M.,  641. 
Stierlin,  W.  C.,  641. 
Stickney,  W.,  421. 
Stinemetz  &  Co.,  6. 
Stockbridge,  F.  B.,  574,  583,  585. 
Stockbridge,  Mrs.,  583. 
Stockton,  — ,  640. 
Stofer,  A.  J.,  8. 
Stoffel,  H.,  190. 
Stone,  E.  D.,  633. 


Stoneman,  G.,  36,  141,  142,  559,  560,  578. 

Stoneman,  Mrs.,  560. 

Stouch,  G.  VV.  H.,  11,  162,  234,  296. 

Strang,  E.  J.,  453. 

Street,  — ,  178. 

Strong,  H.,  550,  551,  614. 

Stump,  Col.,  650. 

Stuart,  J.  E.  B.,  56,  115,  159. 

Sturgis,  S.,  387. 

Sturgis,  S.   J.,    319,    322,    323,    327,    328, 

329,  331,  335,  355,  426. 
Suit,  S.,  7,  557. 
Sullivan,  J.,  190. 
Sullivan,  J.  K.,  356. 
Sullivan,  Priv.,  200,  201. 
Sully,  A.,  275,  276,  277. 
Sulzer,  Wm.,  8,  714. 
Summer,  E.  V.,  9. 
Summit  Springs,  216. 
Sunderland,  Judge,  544. 
Surratt,  Mrs.,  143. 
Sutro  Gardens,  561. 
Sutton,  W.,  190. 
Swaim,   D.   G.,   503,   513,   534,   535,   541, 

698. 

Swann,  Gov.,  434. 
Swann,  Mrs.  Gov.,  541. 
Swanson,  C.  S.,  720. 
Swayne,  Col.,  67. 
Sweet,  O.  G.,  455,  458,  460,  462,  467,  475, 

478,  479,  486. 
Sweitzer,  N.  B.,  469,  525,  527,  552,  553, 

558,  559,  561. 
Swett,  Judge,  544,  554. 
Swisher,  J.  M.,  503,  512. 
Swords,  Col.,  591. 
Sykes,  Gen.,  162. 
Sylvan  Beach,  595. 
Sypher,  J.  P.,  358. 

Tabb,  Miss  L.,  638. 

Taft,  Mrs.,  408. 

Taft,  Sec.,  416. 

Taggard,  S.  G.,  150. 

Talmadge,  T.  DeW.,  574,  697. 

Tanner,  Corp.  J.,  593,  669,  700. 

Tarsney,  T.,  563. 

Taverner,  — ,  621. 

Taylor,  — ,  555. 

Taylor,  A.  S.,  35,  297,  301. 

Taylor,  C.,  149. 

Taylor,  Gen.  Dick,  744. 

Taylor,  Hon.,  582. 

Taylor,  J.  W.,  68. 

Taylor,  M.  K.,  481,  482. 

Taylor,  W.  M.,  11. 

Teel,  T.  T.,  744. 

Teller,  H.  M.,  7,  714,  503,  652. 

Terrell,   C.  M.,   493,  494,  500,  507,   527, 


782 


531. 

Terrell,  J.,  153. 
Terrell,  Mrs.,  559. 
Terrett,  G.  H.,  35,  36. 
Terrett,  W.,  149. 
Terry,  Gen.,  407. 
Tesson,  — ,  480,  491. 
Tetzner,  C.,  190. 
Theaker,  T.  C.,  344. 
Thomas,  Col.,  229,  571. 
Thomas,  E.,  7. 
Thomas,  E.  H.,  608. 
Thomas,  G.  H.,  263,  363,  709. 
Thomas,  H.  W.,  24,  27,  29,  32,  34,   146, 

401. 

Thomas,  M.  M.,  641. 
Thomas,  Miss  N.,  24. 
Thompkins,   C.   H.,   10,   44,   45,   46,   156, 

224. 

Thompson,  C.  T.,  9. 
Thompson,  Capt.  W.,  269,  275,  298,  302, 

386. 

Thompson,  G.,  562. 

Thompson,  J.  M.,  7,  253,  258,  259,  269. 
Thompson,  J.  W.,  692. 
Thompson,  L.,  204. 
Thompson,  P.,  681. 
Thompson,  Salhe,  484. 
Thompson,  Sec.,  433. 
Thompsons,  The,  74. 
Thornburgh,  J.  M.,  379,  445. 
Thornton,    Sergt.,    237,    244,     247,    673, 

698. 

Thorpe,  Col.,  503. 
Thurman,  Sen.,  576,  581. 
Thurston,  J.  M.,  7,  714,  718,  738. 
Thyson,  P.,  371,  384. 

Tidball,  J.  C.,  92,  97,  105.  108,  160.  514. 
Tighe,  S.,  9. 
Tillman,  Col.,  563,  565. 
Tillman,  Miss,  503. 
Tillotson,  W.  R.,  71. 
Tilman,  — ,  435. 
Ting,  Shung  Yu,  641. 
Todd,  — ,  271. 
Todd,  H.  H.,  189. 
Toledo  Bee,  9. 
Tollman,  T.  M.,  490. 
Tom  Greene  Times,  499. 
Tompkins,  Gen.,  414. 
Tompkins,  J.  S.,  215. 
Tonzalin,  ^.  E.,  552. 
Torris  Ranch,  508. 
Towell,  J.  H.,  247,  252. 
Towers,  L.,  387. 
Town,  F.  L.,  387. 
Townsend,  E.  D.,  87,  144,  214,  315,  332, 

342,  403,  449,  578. 
Tracy,  — ,  304. 


Tracy,  C.,  656. 

Tracy,  D.  F.,  119. 

Tracy,  Post  Trader,  304. 

Trammell,  W.,  149. 

Tremain,  Col.,  699. 

Trippe,  P.  K,  12,  505,  516,  522,  530. 

True,  T.  E.,  11. 

Truesdell,  Geo.,  642. 

Tucker,  J.  R.,  417,  418. 

Turley,  C.  W.,  148. 

Turnbull,  J.  G.,  598. 

Turner,  Dr.,  165-169,  177. 

Turner,  Sergt.  W.,  478,  486. 

Turner,  W.,  248. 

Turpin,  Dr.,  368. 

Tuttle,  L.  R.,  344,  355,  358,  386. 

Tweedale,  J.,  641,  725. 

Twombley,  H.  V.,  366. 

Tyler,  Gen.,  90,  91,  94. 

Tyler,  Gov.,  723. 

Tyson,, Miss  K.,  367. 

Underwood,  J.  C.,  344,  358. 
Union  Hotel,  59. 
Upshur,  Judge,  345,  346. 
Upson,  C.,  477,  502,  509. 
Upton's  Hill,  44. 
Urell,  Col.,  558. 
Utica,  N.  Y.,  117. 

Vailant,  Judge,  531. 

Van  Allen,  129. 

Van  Antwerp,  J.  S.,  9. 

Van  de  Wiele,  387. 

Van  Dyke,  J.,  548. 

Van  Dyke,  Mrs.,  549. 

Van  Horn,  R.  F.,  344,  360. 

Van  Kennan,  M.,  190. 

Van  Syckel,  Mrs.,  641. 

Van  Valzeh,  D.  D.,  463,  466,  474. 

Van  Vliet,  F.,  229. 

Van  Vliet,  S.,  11,  522,  527. 

Van  Voorhis,  J.,  655. 

Van  Wyck.  C.  H.,  338,  344,  587,  593. 

Van  Wyck,  G.  P..  344. 

Van  Wycke,  Chaplain,  301,  578. 

Van  Wycke,  Mrs.,  301,  578. 

Vance,  Senr.,  392,  557. 

Vanderbilt,    Com.,     359,     360,    302,    364, 

366. 

Vanderbilt,  W.  H.,  543. 
Vandererle,  Maj.,  280. 
Vanderling,  Maj.,  543. 
Vanhorn,  E.,  386. 
Vanreypin,  Dr.,  550. 
Viele,  Capt.,  387. 
Viele,  H.  K.,  609,  611. 
Viele,  J.  B.  V.,  350. 
Vienna,  18. 


Vilas,  Sen.,  632. 

Vinal,  W.  II.,  12. 

Vincent,  T.  M.,  456,  458,  461,  480,  481, 

483,  493,   502,   516,   517,   520,    531,   599, 

724. 

Vincent,  T.  A.,  377. 
Virginia  Sentinel,  355. 
Voigt,  A.,  614. 
Von  Zedwitz,  Baron,  572. 
Voorhis,  Mrs.  D.  T.,  641. 
Vorhees,  Senr.,  542,  652. 
Vroom,  P.  B.,  11. 

Wade,  J.  A.,  729,  730,  738. 

Wade,  J.  F.,  501,  502,  504,  505,  506,  515, 

516,  517,  518,  519,  522-525,  528,  599. 
Wadleigh,  B.,  379. 
Wadsworth,  J.  S.,  10. 
Wadsworth,  J.  W.,  720. 
Waggaman,  H.  P.,  6. 
Waggaman,  J.  F.,  642. 
Waggaman,  J.  T.,  6,  573. 
Waggaman,     T.  E.,  6. 
Wagner,  Gen.,  556,  557. 
Wakefield,  W.  F.,  633. 
Wakeman,  Sergt.,  169. 
Walbridge,  G.  R.,  386,  610. 
Walker,  F.,  495,  501,  510,  512,  513. 
Walker,  F.  A.,  105. 
Walker,  Gov.,  396,  398,  413. 
Walker,  J.  A.,  656,  720. 
Wall  St.  News,  9. 
Wall  &  Stevens,  66. 
Wallace,  Lt.,  234,  285. 
Wallace,  R.,  362. 
Wallace,  Senr.,  401,  433. 
Wallingford,  Lt.,  298,  301. 
Walsh,  J.  H.,  350. 
Wai  thai,  Senr.,  563. 
Wamego,  260. 
Wandless,  Lt.,  199. 
Ward,  — ,  385. 
Ward,  C.  R.,  351. 
Ward,  Lt.,  507. 
Ward,  T.,  704,  725,  758. 
Warder,  B.  H.,   551,   553,   563,  564,   569, 

613. 

Wardleigh,  B.,  444,  445. 
Wardless,  Lt.,  183. 
Wardwell,  D.  K.,  72,  77,  78,  83. 
Warfielcl,  G.,  687. 
Warner,  — ,  177. 
Warner,  B.  H.,  386,  554,  583. 
Warner,  V.,  720. 
Warren,  F.  E.,  7,  654,  705. 
Warren,  Gen.,  94,  102. 
Warren,  Mrs.,  718. 
Washburn,  E.  W.,  264. 
Washbiirn,  W.  D.,  652. 
Washington  Arsenal,  143. 


Washington,  Geo.,  14,  18. 

Washington,  J.  E.,  655. 

Washington,  Miss  L.,  362. 

Washington  Post,  8,  9,  587,  589,  596. 

Washington  Sentinel,  9. 

Washington  Times,  8,  9. 

Wasson,  Maj.,  495. 

Waters,  vv.  E.,  480,  481,  482. 

Watkin,  Miss  N.,  638. 

Watson,  — ,  522. 

Watson,  Col.,  434. 

Watson,  Paymaster,  480. 

Watterson,  H.,  416,  418. 

Watterson,  H.  M.,  421. 

Weaver,  F.  H.,  12,  493,  495. 

Weaver's  Ranch,  519. 

Webb,  Gen.,  686. 

Webb,  Mrs.,  646.       - 

Webb,  W.  B.,  548,  574. 

Webster,  A.,  53. 

Webster,  Col.,  182. 

Webster,  C.  W.,  641. 

Wedderburn,  — ,  408. 

Wedgewood,  Dr.  and  Mrs.,  571. 

Weed,  Judge,  578. 

Weeks,  J.  A.,  72. 

Weeks,  Maj.,  490,  678. 

Weeks,  Mrs.,  678. 

Weidman,  Sergt.,  210. 

Weir,  T.  B.,  240,  256. 

Weitzel,  Gen.,  191. 

Welch,  Miss,  340. 

Welling,  Judge,  582. 

Wells,  H.  H.,  359,  366. 

Wendals,  The,  74. 

Wendham,  Mrs.,  72. 

Wentworth,  Scout,  203,  232. 

West,  Col.,  257,  287. 

West,  Gen.,  546. 

West,  H.  L.,  9. 

West  Lebanon,  76,  77. 

West  Point,  14,  74. 

Westerling,  R.,  247,  268. 

WTeston,  — ,  429,  433. 

Weston,  J.  F.,  11,  277. 

Whaley,  Gen.,  84. 

Wheatley,  — ,  371. 

Wheatley  Bros.,  6. 

WTheatley,  S.  E.,  574. 

Wheaton,  S.,  458. 

Wheeler,  Mr.  and  Mrs.,  637. 

Wherry,  W.  W.,  671. 

WThipple,  D.,  74,  75. 

Whipple,  Gen.,  74,  76. 

WThipple,  Lizzie,  75. 

Whipple,  Willie,  74. 

Whistler,  J.,  120. 

Whistler,  K.  V.,  93,  98,  143. 

White,  Father,  436. 

White,  Hon.,  695. 


784 


White,.  Miss  P.,  695. 

White,  W.  J.,  657. 

White  River  Junction,  77. 

Whiten,  Lt.,  285. 

Whitehall,  S.  R.,  12,  491. 

Whiting,  Col.,  638,  698. 

Whiting,  Miss,  638. 

Whitney,  Mrs.,  575. 

Whitney,  Sec.,   543,   544,   547,   563,   571, 

574,  581. 

Whittaker,  Gen.,  531. 
Whittemore,  T.,  11. 
Whithorn,  — ,  583. 
Whittlesey,  Gen.,  411. 
Wicks,  Col.,  241,  242,  251. 
Widdecombe,  A.  C.,  64,  355,  383,  571. 
Widmaii,  C.,  189,  195,  205. 
Wigfall,  Col.,  743. 
Wiggins,  Dr.,  249. 
Wiggins,  J.  V.,  641. 
Wilcox,  O.  B.,  10,  35,  36,  37,  38,  39,  41, 

42,  47,  50,  51,  91,  213. 
Wilcox  Landing,  96. 
Wild  Bill,  232,  273. 
Wild,  Joe,  301. 
Wilder,  M.,  391,  393. 
Wilderness,  The,  113. 
Wiley,  J.  M.,  703. 
Willard,  C.  C.,  6. 
Willard,  Mrs.  C.,  641. 
Wilkins,  B.,  562,  563,  589,  595,  685,  723. 
Williams,  A.  C.,  421. 
Williams,  Atty.  Gen.,  56. 
Williams,  Gen.,  398,  399,  415. 
Williams,  J.,  190. 
Williams,  J.  S.,  537. 
Williams,  L.,  408. 
Williams,  R.,  10,  228,  628,  631,  729. 
Williams,  S.,  10,  133,  134. 
Williams,  W.  N.,  261,  308,  313. 
Williamsburg,  59. 
Williamson,  J.  J.,  633. 
Williamson,  Prof.,  225. 
Willoughby,  Judge,  575. 
Wilson,  — ,  254,  291,  415,  436. 
Wilson,  A.  A.,  556. 
Wilson,  Gen.,  710,  758. 
Wilson,  H.,  358. 
Wilson,  Jere,  590,  595. 
Wilson,  L.  P.,  81,  92,  94. 
Wilson,  W.  V.  S.,  421. 
Wimer,  J.  B.,  613. 
Windom,  Sec.,  544,  586. 
Windsor,  D.,  148,  585. 
Winger,  Miss,  641. 
Winger,  Mrs.  B.  F.,  641. 
Winthrop,  Maj.,  449. 
Wisconsin,  The,  9. 
Wise,  G.  D.,  8,  656. 
Wise,  M.  R.,  512,  718. 
Wise,  R.  N.,  720,  738. 


Wisewell,  Col.,  82,  85. 

Witherell,  Miss,  340. 

Witmore,  Lt.,  383. 

Wolcott,  E.  O.,  652. 

Wolf,  Dr.,  480. 

Wolfe,  A.,  190. 

Wood,  F.,  366. 

Wood,  H.  C.,  11. 

Wood,  Judge,  544. 

Wood,  J.  H.,  622,  710. 

Wood,  L.,  10. 

WToodbury,  Chas.,  540. 

Woodbury,  Dr.,  394. 

Woodbury,  Gov.,  548,  592,  685. 

Woodbury,  W.    A.,    72,    76,    77,    78,    80. 

542. 

Woodfin,  Gov.,  698. 
Woodhull,  M.,  151. 
Woodruff,  Dr.,  465,  469,  470,  472,  473, 

477,  478,  480,  482. 
Woodruff,  E.,  12,  699. 
Woods,  J.  C.,  264. 
Woods,  Miss,  340. 
Woodward,  S.  L.,  351,  387. 
Wooley,  E.  J.,  252. 
Worley,  E.,  247. 
Wormley,  572,  575,  576. 
Worth,  W.  S.,  10,  120. 
Worthington  &  Heald,  706. 
Wright,  — ,  336,  356. 
Wright,  A.  B.,  656. 
Wright,  Chaplain,  192. 
Wright,  G.  F.,  344,  531. 
Wright,  H.,  10,  101,  365,  578,  579. 
Wright,  Judge,  391. 
Wright,  M.  B.  C.,  669. 
Wright,  M.  J.,  743. 
Wyatt,  Col.,  182. 
Wylie,  A.,  210. 
Wylie,  W.  P.,  344,  356. 
Wyman,  Maj.,  83. 

Yard,  E.  O.,  267,  269. 

Yard,  J.  E.,  458,  469. 

Yates,  G.  W.,  302,  323,  324,  332,  425. 

Yeomans,  Judge,  690,  700,  703. 

Yorktown,  59. 

Yost,  J.,  657. 

Young,  J.  R.,  8,  694,  696,  709,  717. 

Young,  L.,  583,  588. 

Young,  N.  C.,  626. 

Young,  P.  M.  B.,  379,  445. 

Young,  S.  B.  M.,  60,  704,  706,  707,  725, 

731,  733,  735,  736,  738,  740. 
Young,  T.,  421. 

Zadeck,  A.,  503. 

Zalinski.  E.,  12. 

Zering,  Judge,  349,  373,  384,  678. 

Zeigler,  — ,  301. 

Zimmerman,  G.,  189. 


